The Rhythm of Resistance: A Guide to San Juan‘s History of Reggaeton

Puerto Rico‘s story is one of conquest, occupation, and resistance. On this walking tour through San Juan‘s streets, we‘ll trace the evolution of Reggaetón from protest to mainstream music and bring the island‘s history to life.

We‘ll follow this story starting with Puerto Rico‘s colonial roots at El Capitolio, the Capitol Building. From there, I‘ll introduce you to Reggaetón and show you several famous nightclubs which fostered some of the most renowned artists of this genre. I‘ll tell you how it was illegal to record, sell or play Reggaetón in radio stations across the island during the 90s. As you stroll along Calle San Sebastian, where Las Fiestas de San Sebastián, one of the biggest festivals in the Caribbean, takes place, I‘ll tell you about La Plena, known as the music of local news and gossip. You‘ll then have an opportunity to explore the famous La Perla neighborhood where our tour ends. You‘ll find out how the community has fought gentrification, hear about their strict ‘no photographs‘ policy, and see where the music video for Despacito was filmed.

On this tour, you‘ll also:

• Find out how John the Baptist is connected to the island while taking in the San Juan Bautista statue
• Pass by El Tapia Theater, the oldest playhouse in San Juan
• Take in stunning views of El Morro San Felipe Fort and the Atlantic Ocean
• Stroll through Plaza Colon with its trendy surrounds and the imposing statue of Christopher Columbus
• Pop into Haitian Gallery where you‘ll hear about the country‘s connections to Puerto Rico
• Spot the El Abanico Battle Grounds
• See Castillo San Cristóbal, the largest Spanish Fort in the New World
• Learn about the Noise Dance Club‘s lyric battles

This hour-long tour will reveal the historical, political and social landscape that shaped Reggaetón. Join professor Raul ”Gorras” Moris, a historian, performer, and author, as he regales you with fascinating stories that are guaranteed to leave you surprised by the city.