Karol G responded Monday (Nov. 11) to criticism of her new song “+57,” which features J Balvin, Feid, Maluma, and other Colombian artists. The track has faced backlash over lyrics some have interpreted as sexualizing minors.
The response came four days after the reggaetón song, produced by Karol’s longtime collaborator Ovy on the Drums and co-written by Keityn, was released. The song, which also includes Ryan Castro, Blessd, and newcomer DFZM, was initially hailed as a potential anthem for Colombia.
However, after its release on Nov. 7, the song’s lyrics sparked online criticism, with some accusing it of over-sexualizing minors. In one controversial line, a woman is described as being a “mamacita” since she was 14. Rolling Stone En Español published an article titled “The Disaster of ‘+57,"” and the Colombian Institute of Family Welfare (ICBF) condemned the track, saying it “reinforces the sexualization of children” and undermines efforts against the sexual exploitation of minors.
In her Instagram Stories, Karol addressed the controversy, explaining that as artists, they are vulnerable to public interpretation. She expressed frustration over “misinformation” and false claims about her actions, particularly regarding posts she has not made, as she hasn’t used Twitter in over six months.
“I feel a lot of frustration for the misinformation that has been given, about the false posts that I have supposedly made and deleted from Twitter,” she wrote. “In this case, unfortunately, the lyrics of a song, with which I sought to celebrate the union between artists and put to shine my people… were taken out of context.” Karol took responsibility for the misunderstanding, acknowledging that she still has much to learn.
It’s important to note that Karol does not sing the controversial line herself; it is delivered by some of the male artists on the track. Nonetheless, she apologized for the impact it had.
In solidarity, Feid, Balvin, and Ovy on the Drums shared Karol’s message. Balvin wrote, “Queen, we are with you. You have given us so many wins that this doesn’t take away from your greatness, we’re here unconditionally.”
Karol concluded her message by thanking her fans for their continued support, saying, “I value it very much, and the artists who participated with me in the song, I keep in my heart the beautiful energy with which we worked that day.”
