Los Pleneros de la Cresta: From Small Town Sounds to Super Bowl Stardom

Talk about a game-changer! Last Sunday, Los Pleneros de la Cresta stepped into the global spotlight at the Super Bowl halftime show, joining forces with none other than Bad Bunny. Performing in front of a jaw-dropping 128.2 million viewers, they electrified audiences with their hits "DtMF" and "CAFé CON RON," then turned heads backing a surprise salsa rendition of “Die with a Smile” with none other than Lady Gaga!

For these passionate young musicians hailing from the small town of Ciales, Puerto Rico, this was a dream come true beyond their wildest imaginations. “It was one of those moments we’re still processing,” reveals Joshuan Ocasio Rivera, a founding member. “Singing backing vocals in English and watching Lady Gaga groove to salsa? Truly iconic!”

Bad Bunny's latest album, DeBÍ TiRAR MáS FOToS, pays homage to Puerto Rico’s rich musical traditions, especially plena. This folkloric sound, born in the 1900s in Ponce, evolved as a lively way for marginalized communities to share news and events. Its pulsating rhythms have been a staple during holidays and lively festivals, invigorated by fervent musicians and street performers.

Maintaining this heritage, Los Pleneros de la Cresta are fueled by enthusiasm and love for plena. The talented quartet—comprised of twins Joshuan and Joseph Ocasio Rivera, along with their brother Jeyluix and friend Josué Román Figueroa—was born in 2013 at the University of Puerto Rico. Since then, they've released three albums and performed across the island, with a standout moment during Puerto Rico Independence Party's campaign event, where Bad Bunny made a notable endorsement appearance.

Bringing plena to the frontlines, Bad Bunny joined creative forces with Los Pleneros to create the catchy hit “CAFé CON RON,” an anthem celebrating Puerto Rico's vibrant heartlands, which quickly became a fan favorite. “We were speechless. It was one of those moments that tightens your chest and brings tears to your eyes,” Joshuan shares, reminding us how powerful it felt to see their music shine on such a grand stage.

While plena has touched mainstream shores before, with Ricky Martin’s 2006 hit “Pégate,” this collaboration truly thrust it into the global limelight, skyrocketing up the streaming charts. Embracing plena’s pure sound without compromise, Los Pleneros have tapped into a cultural vein that resonates far and wide. Performing alongside Bad Bunny during his San Juan residency, they took the spotlight during his set with full gusto.

With this incredible Super Bowl experience under their belts, there's little doubt that Los Pleneros are ready to take their sound—and their fans—on an unforgettable journey!