Watch Underground: La Historia del Reggaeton

Underground: La Historia del Reggaeton is a documentary series that tells the story of the rise of the now globally popular genre of reggaeton. The show takes viewers on a journey through the history of this music style, which originated in Puerto Rico in the late 1990s.

The series is directed by Alejandro Santiago and produced by Isabel Zelaya, who are both immersed in the reggaeton scene. They have brought together an impressive array of interviews with some of the biggest names in reggaeton, including Daddy Yankee, Don Omar, Tego Calderón, Wisin y Yandel, and more.

The documentary makes use of a wide range of visual and audio material to bring the story to life. From archival footage of early reggaeton performances in Puerto Rico to contemporary music videos, the series is packed with vibrant imagery that showcases the evolution of reggaeton. It also delves into the impact of digital technologies such as YouTube and social media on the genre's global popularity.

The show is divided into six episodes, each of which focuses on a specific period or theme in the history of reggaeton. The first episode, titled "Origins", sets the scene for the rest of the series by introducing viewers to the social and cultural context in which reggaeton emerged. It explores the influence of hip-hop, dancehall, and other music styles on the Puerto Rican sound that would become reggaeton.

The following episodes delve into various aspects of the reggaeton phenomenon. The second episode, "Prohibido", examines the early days of the genre when it was still considered taboo and even illegal in some places. It traces the evolution of the music and its gradual acceptance in Puerto Rican society.

Subsequent episodes explore the role of women in reggaeton, the history of the genre's biggest record labels, and the transformation of reggaeton in the global music industry. The documentary also examines the political and social implications of reggaeton's rise to mainstream popularity.

Throughout the series, viewers get an inside look at the creative process behind some of reggaeton's most iconic songs. Producers and artists share their stories of how they crafted some of the genre's biggest hits and how they have continued to innovate and evolve over time.

One of the strengths of Underground: La Historia del Reggaeton is that it doesn't shy away from the controversies and criticisms that have been leveled against reggaeton over the years. The series grapples with complex issues such as sexism, violence, and cultural appropriation, and places these debates within the larger historical and social context of the genre.

Overall, Underground: La Historia del Reggaeton is a must-watch for anyone interested in the history and evolution of reggaeton. It is a comprehensive and engaging documentary that brings to life the vibrant music and culture of this genre while also shedding light on the broader social and political issues that shape it.