Although soccer is still king among Hispanics in the U.S. and worldwide, the other fútbol is the focus for many Hispanics with the upcoming Big Game.
Latino artists performing at halftime isn’t actually new. In fact, artists from Gloria Estefan, Bruno Mars (yes, he’s Latino) to Enrique Iglesias and Christina Aguilera (yes, she’s Latina too) have graced the stage of the halftime show.
However, this is the first time in the 54-year history of the game that 2 Latinas will headline. Considering each singer has found extensive success in the U.S Latino and Latin American charts, it is safe to say there will be a diverse Latino audience tuning in.
Add to this the efforts made by the NFL and halftime show sponsor Pepsi to connect with Latinos (and the likelihood of other Latin artists joining them on stage), and the Latino influence in what’s been a more traditional U.S. mainstream event is easy to see.
None of this is completely surprising, however, when you consider that Latino culture is becoming more and more mainstream in many other areas.
Consider also that:
• Salsa outsells ketchup
• Tortillas outsell hot dog and hamburger buns
• The #1 downloaded song EVER on YouTube is “Despacito” (you know you all sang
it once)
So, yes, Latino culture has long been influencing U.S. culture … and it is becoming the mainstream. So, whether you tune in to watch the actual game, or the halftime show, or the commercials (many of which will be targeted toward Latinos), enjoy it not with boring chicken wings and pizza. Instead, Latinize your experience with some empanadas and quesadillas. After all, what’s more American than tortillas?
