Rauw Alejandro Invokes ‘West Side Story’ With a Sizzling Medley for His VMAs Debut

Rauw Alejandro made a memorable debut at the 40th MTV VMAs on Wednesday (Sept. 11), dazzling with a performance rich in cultural homage and electric energy, channeling the vintage Broadway glitz and grit of West Side Story .

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Dressed in an outfit reminiscent of late ’60s New York with a hint of pachuco style, the Puerto Rican superstar commenced his act with “Touching the Sky,” amplified with a dash of dubstep. His smooth execution kept all eyes glued to the stage.

The performance then transitioned to highlight a troupe of Caribbean drummers and dancers dressed in traditional white garb, their chants filling the air as Rauw introduced a more stripped down rendition “Diluvio” from his 2023 album, Playa Saturno . Infused with plenty of folk flair, that part of the medley culminated in an exhilarating dance-off. “ Puerto Rico en la casa ,” he proclaimed.

Switching scenes once more under neon red lights emblazoned with the words “Cosa Nuestra” — the title of his upcoming album — Rauw walked across the stage, ever so slyly rocking a white tank top that showcased his tattoos, and began to croon the words to “Déjame Entrar,” his latest Afrobeats-tinged single. The West Side Stor y atmosphere truly came alive as performers danced atop oversized props mimicking New York’s iconic buildings, turning his segment into an exhilarating spectacle.

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“ Mi gente Latina, esta es cosa nuestra ,” he declared. (“My Latin people, this is our thing.”)

Earlier on the red carpet, Rauw shared insights into his upcoming album, sharing, “ Cosa Nuestra [features] roots from the island, a Caribbean mix with New York inspo. It’s Puerto Rican culture from back in the days.” The album nods to the genre-defining 1969 Fania All Stars salsa album by Willie Colón and Héctor Lavoe.

“Touching the Sky” was nominated for three VMAs: best latin, best cinematography and best choreography.

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