A video featuring Bad Bunny in tears has gone viral — and these tears are filled with joy.

The beloved singer, whose actual name is Benito Antonio Martínez Ocasio, shared an emotional video on TikTok alongside his song “DTMF,” which stands for “DeBÍ TiRAR MáS FOToS.” He expressed his gratitude for the overwhelming support from fans for his new album, which shares the same name. This month, the album gained immense popularity as countless listeners posted heartfelt video and photo montages to the song, reflecting on cherished moments with loved ones.

Bad Bunny’s heartfelt video has garnered over 118 million views, bringing more attention to the important dialogue surrounding masculinity and emotional expression.

“Bad Bunny encourages young men to recognize that it is not only acceptable but also beneficial to acknowledge and share their emotions. This is a lesson that many men and boys have not been taught,” stated Sheldon Jacobs, a licensed therapist and a member of the National Alliance on Mental Illness Board of Directors. “He is really challenging and reshaping cultural norms.”

Experts emphasize the significance of emotional expression for young boys and men, as it plays a vital role in fostering lasting relationships and promoting mental health. Figures like Bad Bunny provide valuable role models during a formative period in many boys’ lives, according to Sheldon.

It’s Time to Move Past ‘Boys Don’t Cry’

Bad Bunny’s candidness is part of a broader movement among male celebrities and athletes who have been vocal about their feelings in recent years, notes Ronald Levant, a psychology professor emeritus at The University of Akron and co-author of “The Problem with Men: Insights on Overcoming a Traumatic Childhood from a World-Renowned Psychologist.”

Last March, Jason Kelce stirred emotions when he announced his retirement after 13 seasons with the Philadelphia Eagles, demonstrating his vulnerability during the press conference alongside his brother Travis, who also shed tears. Additionally, Justin Bieber posted a series of images on Instagram from a performance, which notably included him in tears.

“Bad Bunny fits perfectly into this trend,” Levant mentions. “He is tearing down the traditional masculine barriers, stepping out of prescribed gender roles, and embracing vulnerability.”

The Emotion Behind ‘DTMF’

Bad Bunny’s sixth album is a 17-track tribute to his Puerto Rican heritage, released on January 5. It delves into the island’s historical challenges related to colonization and gentrification. The album’s themes resonated widely, notably within the Puerto Rican diaspora, prompting creators to share nostalgic video and photo compilations to “DTMF.” The lyrics evoke deep feelings, translating to phrases such as “I should have taken more pictures when I had you, I should have given you more kisses and hugs when I could.” This poignant message has reached male figures like DJ Steve Aoki, who shared a video captioned, “Wish I had more photos, miss you dad.”

“It’s vital for someone like him to display vulnerability,” remarked Daniel Gale, a 24-year-old Puerto Rican from Orlando, Florida. He emphasized how the album’s themes of liberation resonated with him. After translating the lyrics, 22-year-old creator Zachary Hill found himself overwhelmed with emotion and shared a tearful video that resonated with millions, amassing over 22 million views. “There’s an incredible authenticity in his music and the videos inspired by it, reinforcing that emotions are universal, regardless of gender or age,” Hill affirmed.

Changing Gender Norms Around Emotion Are a Positive Shift

The Grammy-winning reggaeton artist has been recognized for challenging gender norms in fashion and confrontations with homophobia. Notably, he has performed while kissing a male dancer, donned drag in his “Yo Perreo Sola” music video, and appeared in a skirt on the “Tonight Show.”

When Don Omar exhibited homophobic sentiments online, Bad Bunny responded with a tweet questioning the presence of homophobia in modern times, calling it “embarrassing.”

Levant asserted that a new generation of men like Bad Bunny is pushing back against the rigid expectations of traditional masculinity, particularly the stigma around crying.

“Crying remains a primary taboo for boys; they’re often discouraged from showing that emotion,” Levant explained.

Yet, young males are facing an epidemic of loneliness. A 2021 Survey Center on American Life report indicated that only 1 in 5 men received emotional support from a friend in the previous week, compared to 4 in 10 women, and men have half the likelihood of telling a friend they love them in a week.

Experts argue that openly discussing emotions can lead to meaningful solutions. Sheldon noted the importance for young boys of color to have relatable male figures, especially since cultural norms have often promoted mental health stigma in these communities.

“The significance of representation is immense,” Sheldon remarked. “When they see Bad Bunny expressing emotions, they recognize, ‘It’s okay for me to do the same.’”

Hale’s coverage of youth mental health at YSL News is supported by a grant from Pivotal Ventures. Pivotal Ventures does not influence editorial content. You can reach her at @rachelleighhale on X.