Rauw Alejandro made a memorable debut at the 40th MTV VMAs on Wednesday (Sept. 11), dazzling with a performance rich in cultural homage and electric energy, channeling the vintage Broadway glitz and grit of West Side Story.

Dressed in an outfit reminiscent of late ’60s New York with a hint of pachuco style, the Puerto Rican superstar commenced his act with “Touching the Sky,” amplified with a dash of dubstep. His smooth execution kept all eyes glued to the stage.

The performance then transitioned to highlight a troupe of Caribbean drummers and dancers dressed in traditional white garb, their chants filling the air as Rauw introduced a more stripped down rendition “Diluvio” from his 2023 album, Playa Saturno. Infused with plenty of folk flair, that part of the medley culminated in an exhilarating dance-off. “Puerto Rico en la casa,” he proclaimed.

Switching scenes once more under neon red lights emblazoned with the words “Cosa Nuestra” — the title of his upcoming album — Rauw walked across the stage, ever so slyly rocking a white tank top that showcased his tattoos, and began to croon the words to “Déjame Entrar,” his latest Afrobeats-tinged single. The West Side Story atmosphere truly came alive as performers danced atop oversized props mimicking New York’s iconic buildings, turning his segment into an exhilarating spectacle.

“Mi gente Latina, esta es cosa nuestra,” he declared. (“My Latin people, this is our thing.”)

Earlier on the red carpet, Rauw shared insights into his upcoming album, sharing, “Cosa Nuestra [features] roots from the island, a Caribbean mix with New York inspo. It’s Puerto Rican culture from back in the days.” The album nods to the genre-defining 1969 Fania All Stars salsa album by Willie Colón and Héctor Lavoe.

“Touching the Sky” was nominated for three VMAs: best latin, best cinematography and best choreography.