A recent Cuban television program explored the influence of urban music on language use, focusing on popular songs such as "Wow Pedro" and "Tacto que llegó el reparto." The discussion centered on the punctuation and grammar found in these tracks and their effect on everyday communication. Through examples from reggaeton and other genres, the show highlighted the importance of proper linguistic structures while acknowledging the cultural significance of colloquial expressions.
In a segment aired recently, the host of Revista Buenos Días examined how reggaeton and similar genres introduce unique linguistic elements into daily life. The commentator noted that these songs often feature grammatical errors, particularly concerning punctuation, which can affect how listeners perceive and replicate these phrases. For instance, the phrase "Wow, Pedro" requires a comma for clarity, and similar attention to detail was encouraged for other song lyrics.
Further into the program, the expert discussed the dual nature of certain words, like "acere," which can be spelled with either an 's' or a 'c.' This term, though informal, is not inherently vulgar but reflects local dialects. Additionally, it was pointed out that this trend extends beyond reggaeton, affecting various musical genres. Despite originating from street culture, it remains crucial to adhere to spelling conventions in formal contexts.
Released toward the end of 2024, "Wow Pedro" by Chocolate MC rapidly became a viral sensation on platforms like Instagram and TikTok. The track gained traction due to its catchy beat and references to fellow artists, notably Harryson. Its success propelled Chocolate MC to prominence within Havana and Miami’s music scenes, showcasing the widespread appeal of the song among both locals and the diaspora.
Similarly, Oniel Bebeshito's "Tacto que llegó el reparto" achieved significant milestones, accumulating over a million views on YouTube shortly after its release. This achievement elevated Bebeshito’s status in Cuban reggaeton circles and opened doors to international opportunities, including participation in the 2025 Latin Grammy Awards. Moreover, the song inspired creative reinterpretations, such as a young Cuban's melodic version shared widely on TikTok.
The exploration of urban music’s impact on language usage in Cuba underscores a broader cultural dialogue. While these songs reflect authentic expressions of community life, they also spark discussions about maintaining linguistic integrity. As reggaeton continues to shape Cuban musical culture, balancing raw authenticity with refined lyricism becomes essential for reaching broader audiences without losing cultural roots.