Categoría: Echoes

Benito’s residency at “El Coliseo” in Puerto Rico was more than just a regular show; it was an authentic love letter to the world, transcending the boundaries of music, language, and geography. The performance connected the audience in a way that words weren’t necessary, just a smile and a multitude of people dancing, having the time of their lives. 

Reggaeton has been a controversial genre over the years, often associated with explicit lyrics and catchy rhythms, loved and criticized in equal measure. But in Benito’s hands, it seems to be evolving, incorporating an original and unique blend of genres and collaborations that bridge tastes and generations. His lyrics touch the core of human passions, love for family, a partner, and even erotic experiences that anyone can relate to.

What particularly caught my attention is the humility and kindness he seems to radiate so authentically. It’s no wonder that Benito, an ordinary person like you or me, through his creativity and distinctive sound, has captured the attention of audiences, forging his own path in the music industry, a path that is far from easy. In a relatively short time, he has headlined international music charts, becoming a music icon and a worldwide reference for his culture.

The residency was curated in such a way every detail created a vivid mental environment even before the concert began. References to DTMF appeared throughout Puerto Rico, leading into a prior concert immersive experience where stop-motion explanations of certain Benito videos revealed “Little Concho,” a Puerto Rican frog in danger of extinction, as the main character. Symbolism, from pava hats and a wooden recording booth to domino tables and ice cream, all offer glimpses into the artist’s creative process surrounded by elements evoking childhood memories while reflecting the values and ideologies he holds dear.

During the concert, the most remarkable detail was the energy of the crowd. It felt like a massive New Year’s Eve celebration or a family gathering. People were dancing, the energy flowing smoothly and electrifying the space, a unique sensation complemented by a mountain-like stage shrouded in mist, a ceiba tree on one side, mock-up cameras flashing lights, and live salsa orchestras performing alongside, creating a massive block-party atmosphere.

A strong symbolism emerged when Benito began singing from the rooftop of a replica of his childhood home, located on the opposite side of the main stage. In my view, it was the most profound representation of an integrated person singing and dancing atop the memories that shaped him, fully embracing his family, his audience, and the significance of being present. Meanwhile, friends and fans both inside and outside the house joined in, dancing alongside the crowd, creating a shared celebration of connection and memory.

Benito has become the personification of self-evolution, following a path of light rather than succumbing to destructive or selfish patterns. His story is outstanding, and his altruistic projects have a positive impact on his community by supporting education and creating opportunities, even inspiring a class at Yale University that incorporates his art. Beyond his social contributions, his music has a profound cultural impact, serving as an avenue to understand the Puerto Rican diaspora and the experiences, struggles, and joys of his community. His authenticity, deep roots, and bold humanity earn him profound respect, and he truly embodies his own words: “He always was him, he always has been him, and he always will be Benito.”

The Editors | October 2025

For as long as I can remember, I’ve always considered myself a music lover. Music has been a vital part of my life, and I’ve been fortunate enough to see my favorite bands both in my city and abroad. It all began about a year ago, when my social media feed started filling up with reels about a mysterious message displayed at one of Liam Gallagher’s concerts. At the same time, excitement was growing as that same message appeared in the stories of Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds. Then, for us, the generation that grew up in the ’90s, shaped by Britpop, speculation began about what that mysterious date could mean.

As the days went by, memes and conversations about the topic spread everywhere. Most of us thought it might be a special album release, but deep down, we all held onto hope and asked ourselves: could the Gallagher brothers finally forgive each other? Could there really be a reunion?

Finally, the day came, and tour dates in London were announced. My excitement, along with that of thousands of fans, was through the roof. I might finally fulfill one of my dreams: seeing Oasis live, for the very first time. Still, questions remained — would they extend the tour to other countries? In the meantime, I started making plans and crunching numbers to see if traveling to London could be an option. Unfortunately, it wasn’t possible at the time. Weeks later, the news broke: the tour was coming to Mexico on September 11 and 12!

The return of Oasis represented much more than just a concert; it was a wave of nostalgia that carried so many memories. I was reminded of those glorious MTV days, when the music industry was completely different from what we know today, when concerts weren’t filled with cell phones, but lit by lighters instead of glowing screens; when there were no virtual queues, only long lines outside venues waiting for ticket sales to start a whole ritual to get the best spot.

The big day arrived. With the trademark English punctuality, the lights went out at 9:00 p.m. Amid screams of joy and disbelief, the screens displayed the words: “The great wait is over.” “It’s happening.” Seconds later, Liam and Noel appeared on stage, hand in hand, while the crowd exploded with emotion.

The chords of “Hello” echoed through the stadium, followed by “It’s Good to Be Back.” For nearly two hours, the GNP Stadium turned into a massive karaoke, everyone singing along to every Oasis hit. One of the most memorable moments was when they played “Cigarettes & Alcohol.” More than half of the audience already knew what to do — but Liam and Noel guided us through how to do the Poznań. We instantly embraced our friends, and even strangers, and jumped together as the song began. Between flying cups and beer, that moment became one of the concert’s highlights.

It wasn’t just lifelong fans who were witnessing what we once thought impossible, new generations who had only just discovered “Wonderwall” or “Don’t Look Back in Anger” were now getting the chance to live a unique experience too.

Despite his limited Spanish, Liam’s connection with the audience was unmatched. The night was filled with powerful emotions as we listened to “Some Might Say,” “Slide Away,” “Rock & Roll Star,” and “Whatever,” just to name a few gems that echoed for two unforgettable nights. Then it was Noel’s turn to give us stunning renditions of “The Masterplan,” “Little by Little,” and “Talk Tonight.” His greatness as both a songwriter and performer shone through in every note, especially during “Don’t Look Back in Anger,” which brought back so many memories and emotions.

My excitement was indescribable unlike anything I’d felt at any other concert. Oasis’s return wasn’t just any reunion; hearing their songs again left a deep mark on me. It symbolized the nostalgia of the ’90s and the memories that have accompanied me ever since friendships made and lost, failed relationships, moments of sadness and joy. Their music has undoubtedly been part of the soundtrack of my life.

Being able to experience those two concert nights settled the debt they owed to me and to all their fans  filling me with immense happiness that I’ll hardly ever surpass.

By _ _m_o_n_c_ | September 2025