On a rainy, wet, and cold November evening in Seattle, the Climate Pledge Arena became the epicenter of a musical frenzy as Bad Bunny, one of the most electrifying figures in reggaeton and global pop, delivered a performance that was nothing short of legendary. Celebrating the 10th stop of his "Most Wanted" Tour, this show was layered with significance: not only was it the eve of his birthday, but Bad Bunny also had the Oscars waiting for him the very next day. The anticipation in the air was electric, and the event promised to be a memorable prelude to a milestone in his career.
Photos by Tage Stenner / Backspin Canada
As the clock struck 9:15 pm, a roughly 20+ member orchestra set the stage alight, weaving a sonic tapestry that heralded the night's spectacle. The twin semi-circle stages, a testament to the show's grandeur, lay silent for a moment longer before Bad Bunny rose from the opposite end, capturing every gaze in the arena.
The evening's setlist was a journey through Bad Bunny's vast discography, skillfully divided into four acts that showcased his versatility and the depth of his music. The opening act with the orchestra set a high bar, transitioning seamlessly into hits like "NADIE SABE" and "MONACO," enveloping the audience in a wave of euphoria. The energy was relentless, with "FINA," "HIBIKI," and "MR. OCTOBER" keeping fans on their feet, dancing and singing along.
Act II saw the arena transform with the raw energy of tracks like "TELEFONO NUEVO" and "Tú no metes cabra." Covers like "Vuelve" added a layer of nostalgia and unity, binding the artist and his fans in a mutual appreciation of reggaeton's evolution. The acoustic Act III provided a moment of intimacy, with "GRACIAS POR NADA" and a cover of "un x100to" offering a reflective pause in the night's revelry.
The finale, Act IV, was a blitz of Bad Bunny's biggest bangers, including "Safaera," "Yo perreo sola," and "DÁKITI," culminating in the anthemic "WHERE SHE GOES." Each song was a reminder of Bad Bunny's unparalleled ability to blend genres, cultures, and emotions into a compelling narrative that transcends language barriers.
Bad Bunny's "Most Wanted" Tour is far from over, with his next performance set to light up the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles for three consecutive nights starting March 13th. The tour will continue to crisscross North America, promising unforgettable nights in cities like Denver, Minneapolis, Chicago, and beyond, finally wrapping up in Miami with a three-night finale that is sure to be talked about for years to come.
As the night in Seattle drew to a close and the final notes echoed through the Climate Pledge Arena, fans were left with more than just memories of a concert. They had witnessed a celebration of life, music, and the unifying power of a global superstar who, on the eve of his birthday, gifted his audience an experience that blurred the lines between performer and fan, between music and magic.
With the Oscars on his horizon and an expansive tour ahead, Bad Bunny's journey is a showcase of his enduring appeal and the ever-evolving narrative of his career. But one question lingers in the air, a thought that perhaps crosses the minds of many as the lights come up and the crowd begins to disperse: What boundaries will Bad Bunny push next, and how will he continue to redefine the concert experience for millions around the world?
More images of the night below:
