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NYTimes
New York Times
24 Nov 2024
Genevieve Glatsky


NextImg:The Lyrics to “+57” Causes Backlash in Colombia, a Reggaeton Hot Spot

“A mamacita since she was 14,” the song says in Spanish, with a chorus that repeats: “And even though that little baby has an owner, she goes out whenever she wants.”

These lyrics from a recent reggaeton hit have set off a firestorm after eight of Colombia’s biggest artists banded together and released the song this month. The track, which includes global superstars Karol G, J Balvin and Maluma, is called “+57,” a reference to Colombia’s country telephone code.

Commercially, the song was a hit. It has been streamed more than 35 million times worldwide, and immediately shot up to the top spot on Spotify in Colombia, where it remains.

But it has also drawn outrage over lyrics that many Colombians say sexualize children, setting off a fierce debate between those who say the song reinforces negative stereotypes about Colombia and those who say the genre is being unfairly attacked.

Many music experts say “+57” received more attention than most reggaeton songs because of the collection of prominent artists involved and because it was branded as if it represented Colombian culture.

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A J Balvin music video that featured Black actors performing as dogs on leashes prompted condemnation from Colombia’s vice president. Credit...Luis Eduardo Noriega a/EPA, via Shutterstock

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