René Pérez Joglar, known as Residente, has been a central figure in Latin American music and activism. His career with Calle 13 and his subsequent solo career have established him as a reference of social criticism in the region. In recent weeks, his refusal to participate in a concert promoted by Colombian president Gustavo Petro, along with his recent Grammy, have reignited the debate about his political stance and ideological independence.

Since his early days, Residente has used his music to address issues of inequality, human rights and politics. Songs such as Latinoamérica and El Aguante have been interpreted as manifestos of social resistance. His discourse has been marked by a defense of popular causes, but without completely aligning himself with established political sectors.

He is a committed artist. His most recent album is a reiterated complaint to the lack of level in current urban art and that is why the title "Las letras ya no importan" (The lyrics no longer matter), which shows that many composers and artists have given up sending messages in their songs. It is not a new fight for him.

In 2021, Residente was at the center of a controversy with reguetonero J Balvin after criticizing his call for a boycott of the Latin Grammys. In a video, Residente compared Balvin's music to a "hot dog cart," suggesting that it lacked artistic depth. This confrontation sparked a debate in the music industry about the content of lyrics and the commodification of the urban genre.

Beyond music, Residente has been a constant critic of political and corporate figures. He has openly questioned governments of different ideological signs and has denounced human rights violations in several countries. His participation in demonstrations and his public speeches have reinforced his image as an artist committed to social causes.

The estrangement with Gustavo Petro

Residente's refusal to participate in an event organized by Colombian president Gustavo Petro has been interpreted as a message of political independence. Although on occasions he has expressed sympathy for progressive movements, he has avoided linking himself directly with specific leaders. His decision has generated diverse reactions, from criticism to praise for maintaining his ideological autonomy.

In the United States, where the Hispanic community closely follows the political and cultural events in Latin America, Residente has become a reference of identity and resistance. His stance on the music industry and politics has resonated with a public that seeks representation beyond traditional discourses. He also recently took a stand against Trump's massive deportation strategy. In his X account he said: "To our Dominican brothers in Puerto Rico and Latin American brothers in the United States, we are with you always. No human being is illegal".

The case of Residente reflects the role of artists in the contemporary public debate. His refusal to align himself with pre-established positions reinforces the idea that music can be a vehicle for social criticism without the need for direct political commitments. In a context where culture and politics are increasingly intertwined, his figure remains a point of reference for the Hispanic community in the United States and Latin America.