Plena is a traditional form of Puerto Rican music. It is a blend of Spanish, African, and native Taíno music. The music's beat and rhythm are mainly due to the African derived conga drums, more specifically called panderetas . Other instruments heard in plena music are the cuartro, the guiro, the maracas, and a requinto. Plena is played throughout Puerto Rico especially during nights of special occasions such as Christmas. The music was created by a free black couple in Ponce, Puerto Rico and it quickly became a "singing news paper" for the slaves, used to spread messages among the people, similar to the corridos in Mexico. The music is related to similar music in Trinidad.

The audience also joins in the singing, clapping, and dancing. This is an African characteristic. The lyrics of the songs deal with current events. The singer will recite the events of the day and usually criticizing the local politicians, or will discuss the daily scandals, or horrific events such as hurricanes and its devastation.