In brief
While praised by many for its catchy rhythm, it faces backlash for promoting harmful stereotypes about Colombian culture.
In Medellín, Colombia's reggaeton scene is booming with a new track called “+57,” featuring megastars like Karol G, J Balvin, and Maluma. The song, which refers to Colombia’s country code, has rapidly gained popularity, racking up over 35 million streams and landing atop the Spotify charts. However, the success has come at a cost. Critics argue that the lyrics, particularly lines that appear to sexualize minors, reinforce negative stereotypes associated with Colombia and are damaging to the country’s image. This has ignited a heated discussion among fans, experts, and cultural commentators, who are divided on whether the genre is undergoing an unfair critique or if the concerns are valid. The controversy surrounding “+57” highlights the influence of reggaeton and its role in shaping perceptions of Colombian culture globally, raising important questions about responsibility in music and its impact on society.
