Rauw Alejandro made a memorable debut at the 40th MTV VMAs on Wednesday (September 11), shining with a performance full of cultural homage and electric energy that combined the classic Broadway glamour and the rawness of West Side Story.

Dressed in an outfit reminiscent of late ’60s New York with a hint of pachuco style, the Puerto Rican superstar began his set with “Touching the Sky” enhanced with a dash of dubstep. His smooth delivery kept all eyes on the stage.

The performance was then highlighted by a troupe of Caribbean drummers and dancers in traditional white clothing, whose chants filled the air as Rauw performed a stripped-down version of “Diluvio” from his 2023 album. Saturn Beach. This folk-flavored part of the medley culminated in an exhilarating dance competition.”Puerto Rico at home”, he announced.

Changing the scene again under neon red lights emblazoned with the words “Cosa Nuestra”—the title of his upcoming album—Rauw strode across the stage, dressed casually in a white tank top that showed off his tattoos, and began crooning the lyrics to “Déjame Entrar,” his latest Afrobeats-inflected single. West Side StoreThe atmosphere really came to life as the performers danced on oversized props that mimicked New York’s famous buildings, transforming his section into a thrilling spectacle.

“My lovely Latina, this is our Cosa”, he explained. (“My Latin American people, this is our thing.”)

Previously, Rauw gave insights into his upcoming album on the red carpet and said: “What Our (Contains) roots from the island, a Caribbean mix with New York inspiration. It’s Puerto Rican culture from back then.” The album is a reference to the genre-defining salsa album “Fania All Stars” by Willie Colón and Héctor Lavoe from 1969.

“Touching the Sky” was nominated for three VMAs: Best Latin, Best Cinematography and Best Choreography.