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What Is Bomba Yubá? The Rhythm Behind Rauw Alejandro’s ‘Carita Linda’

This is one of the most powerful and spiritual forms of traditional Puerto Rican music

Archivado en: Rauw Alejandro  •  

Rauw Alejandro has just released his new song ‘Carita Linda’, a track about falling head over heels for someone who completely captivates you. With it, he gives a sneak peek into his upcoming studio album, Cosa Nuestra II—a project where he once again honors his roots.

One of the most striking elements of ‘Carita Linda’ is its use of Bomba Yubá, a traditional rhythm deeply connected to Puerto Rico. On his official website, Rauw shares:

“Puerto Rico is a blend of cultures, flavors, and traditions—but the African, Taíno, and Spanish influences live strongly in its music. In Carita Linda, I immerse myself in the sound of Bomba as a way to honor my African ancestors and share a new artistic vision with communities that still preserve this powerful, often overlooked part of our identity.”

The music video brings this vision to life through rhythm, dance, and storytelling—highlighting the Afro-Caribbean soul that continues to shape Puerto Rican culture. You can see it in every movement Rauw makes, as he flows with the sound of these timeless rhythms.

What Is Bomba Yubá?

Bomba Yubá is one of the most powerful and spiritual forms of traditional Puerto Rican music. It dates back to the 17th century and was created by enslaved Africans on the island. Over time, bomba developed as a mix of African rhythms with Taíno and Spanish influences, forming a deeply rooted cultural expression. Within this genre, yubá stands out for being more solemn and reflective, unlike other more upbeat styles like holandé.

One of the most unique things about yubá is the conversation between the dancer and the lead drummer. The dancer marks the rhythm with their movements, and the drummer responds in real time using the primo drum. This interaction creates a powerful emotional exchange, often tied to deep or painful feelings.

The main instruments in yubá include the barril de bomba (a barrel-shaped drum), maracas, and cuá—wooden sticks that are tapped against the drum. For the enslaved communities who created it, bomba wasn’t just music—it was a way to express emotions, build unity, and in some cases, even plan acts of resistance.