It is no secret that Rauw Alejandro has made some serious waves in the music industry, both Latin and American, especially for the last two years following the release of his album Saturno. His latest album, Cosa Nuestra, was highly anticipated with two incredible singles, and a 2025 tour announcement.
Cosa Nuestra [Our Thing] was teased with two singles, “Dejame Entrar” and “Touching the Sky.” Rauw performed both at the 2024 MTV Video Music Awards and fan favorite Diluvio (from his 2023 album Playa Saturno).
“Dejame Entrar” emphasizes Rauw’s ability to play to mainstream ears, in a way that doesn’t completely fall under the traditional mainstream hit formula. With ballad-esque moments this dance track’s catchy with a production that stays in your mind. Similarly, “Touching the Sky’s” production is bright and colorful. Different from his usual sound, a beautiful love song with a melody that makes you want to get up and dance.
Alongside his singles, the 18-track album has a numerous stand-out songs including “Revolú” featuring Columbian artist Feid. This is a collaboration so many fans never knew they needed, but have been truly blessed. Vocally, Rauw’s tone blends beautifully with the production, as well as with Feid’s verses. With reggaeton influences, “Revolú” creates the perfect club track to shake some serious booty with your girls. This is an “on-repeat until my Spotify breaks down” track.
Another personal favorite that transcends generations is Rauw’s interpretation of “Tú Con él.” “Tú Con él” was originally released in the 1980s and sung by Frankie Ruiz. A classic ‘salsa romantica’ played at every family gathering and adored by many. To cover a song so loved and successful is a risk. One Rauw took, and did oh-so successfully. The way he did it, he changed nothing. The production used the same melody, the lyrics were not altered. Rauw stayed true to the song and provided new generations with the song that changed many older generations’ lives. Which is truly a sign of his love and passion for the music, and his culture.
In the midst of Latin music greatness, there is one song that has not fully convinced me of its impact. Committed is Rauw’s first mainly English-language track and features Pharell Williams. To me, it feels like so much is happening at once. Two languages, two very different artists, as well as the production mixes aspects of salsa and R&B that I am not sure I entirely love.
That being said, this album features a star-studded lineup of collaborations in addition to Feid and Pharrell Williams. Cosa Nuestra features Marconi Impara, Yan Block, Alexis y Fido, Laura Pausini, Mr. Naisgai, Latin Mafia, and superstars Bad Bunny and Romeo Santos. Even his father played the guitar for a track. As amazing as it looks written down, it begs to question the set list for his upcoming 2025 tour as half of his album is collaborations. Guess this writer will have to buy a ticket to find out! (This is a hint to my family and friends if they still don’t know what to get me for Christmas)
Overall, Cosa Nuestra features culturally significant tracks that deeply connect Rauw Alejandro to his island of Puerto Rico, while simultaneously extending a hand to his fans internationally.
