Becky G: New Album and Latinx Joy

At 29, Becky G has nearly two decades in entertainment. Her fifth studio album, Baraja Bendita (Spanish for ‘Blessed Deck of Cards’), revisits a sound that originally captivated her: rap.

“My urban roots are a part of me,” she shared with Morning Edition. “It’s how I got signed and discovered. It’s one of my first loves.” This passion infuses the track “Epa” and its video, filmed at Los Angeles’ renowned El Mercadito. In a memorable scene, Becky G shatters a massive ice block, leading to a dance celebration.

When questioned about the symbolism, especially with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement raids being politically significant, she explained how the song’s initial chords felt urgent, akin to alarms. She emphasized the necessity of safe spaces for self-expression. “We need to keep creating,” she insisted. “That’s part of our resistance.” The ice-breaking scene symbolizes this. After the block breaks, “a euphoric joy emerges,” she noted, as everyone dances together.

In an interview with NPR’s A Martínez, Becky G further discussed her project’s inspirations and her artistic evolution. Listen to the full conversation by using the play button above.