What do Puerto Ricans think of the viral song about their homeland?
People from Puerto Rico reflect on how the catchy tune has attracted attention to where they live.
Coverage by Political Leaning
See how different sides of the spectrum reported this story
Notable Quotes
"To see the song being played by people who aren't Puerto Rican is amazing. It feels like we're on the map."
— Maria Mercedes Grubb , Activist
"I’m glad the song has opened the door to have more nuanced conversations about Puerto Rico."
— Debbie Perez , Activist
"You cannot talk about Puerto Rico without talking about Bad Bunny. Whether you like his music or not, he's doing so much for the island."
— Maria Mercedes Grubb , Activist
"We have to be careful that love for Puerto Rico doesn't become consumption."
— Debbie Perez , Activist
"I’m not a musician, baby. I’m a slob."
— Bill Stiteler , Celebrity
"Like many viral moments, there was no master plan—just a catchy idea that connected with people at the right time."
— Bill Stiteler , Celebrity
Key People
Bad Bunny is a Puerto Rican reggaeton and trap artist.
An internet personality and comic known as Saxboy Billy.
Charlie Puth is a well-known singer and songwriter who has engaged with the viral song.
Hosts the Boriken podcast, exploring Puerto Rican history.
Jennifer Love Hewitt is an actress and singer who has shared the viral song on social media.
A country music singer-songwriter recognized for his chart-topping songs.
A chef in San Juan who reflects on Puerto Rican culture.
A pop music boy band formed on the reality TV show 'Making the Band.'
Tags
All Coverage
People from Puerto Rico reflect on how the catchy tune has attracted attention to where they live.
Bill Stiteler, known as Saxboy Billy, created a viral song about Puerto Rico using AI music platform Suno, gaining attention from celebrities and sparking widespread online interest.
An AI-generated song about Puerto Rico, starting with 'First time in San Juan...', has become a viral sensation on TikTok and Instagram, captivating users worldwide.
Bill Stiteler, also known as Saxboy Billy, discusses the creation and unexpected popularity of his viral 'Puerto Rico Song' that has taken over social media platforms.
Similar Stories
Related coverage based on topic and tags
Crowds reflect on watching 'incredible' eclipse
People headed to beaches, parks and hills in their droves to catch the rare event.
August 13, 2026 at 04:59 PMSolar eclipse inspires talk of Pac-man and Shinto myths
Thousands turned out to watch the solar eclipse in the South West; here's what they made of it.
August 15, 2026 at 06:08 AMBonnie Tyler's classic hit spiked in streams during solar eclipse
Bonnie Tyler's friend Mal Pope heard Total Eclipse of the Heart playing throughout Mumbles in Swansea.
August 13, 2026 at 05:07 PMThousands of Bonnie Tyler fans line the streets as coffin taken to Swansea home
The Total Eclipse of the Heart singer died last month in a hospital in Portugal.
August 15, 2026 at 05:33 PMMexico races to clear record seaweed surge from Caribbean beaches - Reuters
Mexico races to clear record seaweed surge from Caribbean beaches Reuters
August 14, 2026 at 09:30 PM'If you're not conservative, don't come here': The town making missiles for Trump
Trump's poll numbers appear to be down, but in this town, his support is as strong as ever.
August 12, 2026 at 11:26 PM