Social networks went crazy a couple of weeks ago after the singer’s publication Karol G in which he announced the “get together” with Feid, Maluma, J Balvin, Ryan Castro y Blessdin addition to Ovy On The Drums and DFZM, for the recording of the single titled +57.
His fans said they were excited and showed their approval that the most renowned performers of that nation were coming together to raise the name of Colombia.
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But everything fell apart and even the Colombian reggaeton star had to apologize since the topic was accused of sexualizing minors and including on president, Gustavo Petrorose in said controversy.
Such is the case of Checho Sangui, who on his official networks posted a video in which he claims: “This crappy lyrics is nothing out of this world compared to other reggaeton lyrics,” “the greatest exponents of reggaeton got together in Colombia and instead of making us feel proud, what it gives us is complete shame +57 nza”, because in +57 is promoted pedophilia and drug use.
At the same time, he gives as an example that a few days before “a 12-year-old girl was brutally abused and ’deprived of life’ in Colombia”, something that outraged the country, but when “it comes to applauding these people, who self-suggest people with their letters and a 14-year-old girl was morbid and sexualized“, and crowns his video by saying that there are many disgusting and depraved lyrics that are destroying the values of society, an event that prevails since singers of that genre have not encountered resistance to do so.”
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On the other hand, the influencer David Barreth did the same in TikTok, where he publicly apologized in the name of everything Colombia, because of the shameful song that came out, when everyone expected something great, but instead they promoted infidelity and hurting the couple. He also disapproved of the allusion to the consumption of toxic substances.
“But I want to make something clear, music is mental reprogramming, it is something that is repeated in people’s consciousness. Take care of the music you listen to, Take care of what you constantly repeat because that is going to become your reality.
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“I admire these singers for what they have achieved, but not for the type of lyrics they are beginning to transmit because it is a contamination in the collective conscience of people,” the video ended. Barrett.
And so a series of videos that invade the Internet regarding this “joint” from which much was expected, but which only turned out to be just another topic in the pile, also criticized by Internet users.
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How does reggaeton influence the perception of morality among Colombian youth?
Interview: The Impact of Reggaeton on Colombian Culture and Morality
Time.news Editor: Welcome to Time.news! Today, we have a special guest who is an expert in Colombian music culture and its societal implications, Dr. Lucia Martinez. Thank you for joining us, Dr. Martinez!
Dr. Lucia Martinez: Thank you for having me! It’s a pleasure to be here.
Editor: Let’s dive right in. Recently, Karol G made headlines with a collaboration alongside other major reggaeton artists like Feid, Maluma, and J Balvin for a single titled “+57.” It initially excited fans, highlighting the unity and talent of Colombia. However, the release has sparked significant controversy over its lyrics being accused of sexualizing minors and promoting negative societal behaviors. What’s your take on the reaction from fans and critics?
Dr. Martinez: It’s a fascinating case, isn’t it? The excitement from fans reflects a deep-rooted national pride, especially considering how reggaeton has put Colombia on the global music map. However, the backlash illustrates a critical societal divide. While some celebrate the genre for its vibrancy and influence, others express grave concerns about the content in modern reggaeton lyrics, underscoring issues related to morality and the portrayal of minors.
Editor: You mentioned the societal divide. Critics like Checho Sangui are pointing out that lyrics from songs like “+57” can perpetuate harmful stereotypes and normalize dangerous behaviors, like drug use and pedophilia. Do you think these lyrics reflect a larger trend in reggaeton and urban music, or is it an isolated incident?
Dr. Martinez: Unfortunately, it’s part of a broader trend within certain urban music genres. Many artists don’t shy away from provocative themes, believing they are simply reflecting the realities of life around them. However, it raises ethical questions: Are they contributing to a culture that accepts such behavior, or are they merely an outlet for expression? The line can often become blurred. This controversy has opened a necessary discussion about accountability in art.
Editor: There’s certainly an important conversation happening. The fact that this incident coincided with a tragic event—a 12-year-old girl being brutally abused in Colombia—has added another layer of complexity to the debate. How does the timing of these events affect public perception?
Dr. Martinez: Yes, the timing is crucial. It highlights the disconnect between entertainment and real societal issues. A tragic event like that forces people to confront the vulnerabilities within their societies, particularly regarding youth. The juxtaposition of celebratory music and stark harsh realities can trigger outrage, as people feel that art should foster positive values rather than glamorize violence or exploitation.
Editor: That’s a compelling point. Some argue that artists like Karol G and others have a responsibility to their audience, especially younger listeners who are heavily influenced by their work. Where do you stand on the artist’s responsibility in this context?
Dr. Martinez: Artists, especially those with significant followings, do hold a level of responsibility. They have the platform and the potential to influence societal values. While self-expression is a crucial aspect of art, it must be balanced with an awareness of the impacts that lyrics can have. Encouraging dialogues about respect and positive values can help shift the narrative toward more constructive themes.
Editor: It sounds like what we need is a collective introspection within the music industry and among listeners alike. As an expert in this field, what do you think could be done moving forward to bridge the gap between artistic expression and social responsibility?
Dr. Martinez: It starts with education—both for artists and their audiences. Initiatives to promote responsible lyrics and to encourage discussions about the implications of certain themes in music would be beneficial. Additionally, artists could collaborate with educators and social workers to create content that encourages healthy discussions around these topics, rather than simply pushing the envelope for shock value.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Martinez, for your insights. It’s crucial that we address these issues with sensitivity and a commitment to improving societal values. It sounds like we have a long way to go, but these conversations are the first step.
Dr. Martinez: Absolutely. Thank you for the opportunity to discuss this important topic!