Long before Rosalía was selling out arenas from Barcelona to Buenos Aires, J Balvin had already pegged her as something extraordinary. In a recent interview, the Colombian superstar opened up about the moment he first heard the Catalan singer’s voice—a moment that would set the stage for one of the most exciting collaborations in recent Latin music history.
It was his longtime producer, Sky Rompiendo, who put Rosalía on his radar. Balvin recalls pressing play and being immediately struck by her sound. “Her voice is like an angel,” he said, remembering that first listen. “I knew right away that I wanted to work with her.” That instinct would prove prophetic.
From 'Brillo' to 'Con Altura': A Chemistry That Transcended Genres
The first fruit of their partnership was “Brillo,” a track that appeared on Balvin’s 2018 album Vibras. The song blended flamenco-tinged melodies with reggaetón rhythms, a fusion that felt fresh and daring at the time. It wasn’t just a hit—it was a statement that Latin music could embrace experimentation without losing its dancefloor appeal.
But it was “Con Altura” that truly exploded. Released in 2019, the video—shot in Barcelona and featuring both artists in vibrant, high-fashion looks—became a global phenomenon. The track topped charts across Latin America and Europe, and its influence stretched far beyond the region. It redefined what a Latin urban song could be, and it cemented Rosalía’s crossover appeal while reinforcing Balvin’s role as a tastemaker.
For many fans, “Con Altura” was the moment they realized Rosalía wasn’t just a niche artist—she was a force. And Balvin was happy to share the spotlight. “I’ve always believed in collaboration,” he said. “When you lift others, you lift the whole culture.”
A Legacy of Lifting Others
Balvin’s eye for talent isn’t limited to Rosalía. Over the years, he’s opened doors for a new generation of artists, including Anitta, Ryan Castro, Feid, and Jhay Cortez. His willingness to feature rising stars on his tracks has helped launch careers and expand the reach of Latin urban music worldwide.
This approach has earned him respect not just as a hitmaker but as a mentor. In an industry often driven by ego, Balvin’s collaborative spirit stands out. He’s been known to champion artists from different countries and genres, from reggaetón to trap to pop, always with an eye toward what’s next.
His influence extends beyond the studio. Balvin has also been vocal about the importance of representation and has used his platform to highlight Latin culture on a global stage. Whether it’s through his music, his fashion choices, or his social media presence, he consistently reminds the world that Latinidad is not a monolith—it’s a rich tapestry of sounds, styles, and stories.
As for Rosalía, she’s now a global icon in her own right, with multiple Grammys and a string of hits that defy categorization. But for many fans, her early work with Balvin remains a touchstone—a reminder of a time when two artists from different corners of the Spanish-speaking world came together to create something truly special.
In a recent discussion about artists and awards, Balvin’s name often comes up as someone who values artistic freedom over industry accolades. That independence has allowed him to take risks, like betting on a then-unknown Rosalía.
Looking ahead, fans are eager to see what’s next for both artists. Balvin continues to release music and collaborate with a wide range of performers, while Rosalía is reportedly working on new material. Whether they reunite in the studio remains to be seen, but their past work together has already left an indelible mark on Latin music.
For now, Balvin’s reflection on discovering Rosalía serves as a reminder of the power of instinct and the importance of supporting emerging talent. In a world where algorithms often dictate what we hear, it’s refreshing to know that sometimes, all it takes is one listen to recognize greatness.
