Colombian superstar Karol G has addressed the controversy surrounding her latest track, “+57,” which features an ensemble of prominent Colombian artists including J Balvin, Feid, and Maluma. Released on November 7th, the reggaeton song, intended to be a celebratory anthem for Colombia, quickly faced criticism regarding its lyrics, which some listeners interpreted as sexualizing minors.
[](Feid Colombian artist featured in +57 Song)
The song, which also includes Ryan Castro, Blessd, and newcomer DFZM, was produced by Karol G’s longtime collaborator Ovy on the Drums and co-written by Keityn. Even before its official release, “+57 song” was anticipated to become a significant anthem representing Colombia’s vibrant music scene. However, the celebratory buzz was soon overshadowed by online discussions focusing on potentially problematic lyrics.
[](J Balvin joins Karol G and other Colombian stars on the +57 track)
Critics specifically pointed to a line in “+57 song” that references a woman being a “mamacita,” meaning “hot mama,” since the age of 14. This lyric sparked outrage and led to accusations of the song sexualizing minors. The backlash gained traction with Rolling Stone En Español publishing a critical column titled “The Disaster of +’57′,” and the Instituto Colombiano de Bienestar Familiar (ICBF) issuing a public statement. The ICBF stated that “+57 song” “reinforces the sexualization of children in our country” and “does not contribute to our fight against commercial sexual exploitation of children and adolescents.”
In response to the growing criticism, Karol G took to her Instagram Stories on Monday, November 11th, to share a lengthy message addressing the controversy. Acknowledging the scrutiny that artists face, she explained that the lyrics of “+57 song” were misinterpreted and taken out of context.
[](Karol G responds to criticism of +57 song lyrics)
Karol G began her statement by expressing gratitude for her fans and those who understand her artistic project and intentions. She emphasized her commitment to positive impact, stating, “I do care about my people and I am a person that every day I look for ways to get involved in projects where I myself can extend my blessing and impact in a positive way the lives of many people.”
Addressing the specific controversy surrounding “+57 song,” Karol G expressed frustration with the misinformation and misinterpretations. “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,” she wrote. She clarified that the lyrics were not intended to be understood in the way they were being perceived.
While Karol G does not sing the controversial line about the “14 year old” in “+57 song” – it is performed by some of the male artists featured on the track – she nonetheless took responsibility for the situation and apologized. “I listen, I take responsibility and I realize that I still have a lot to learn. I feel very affected and I apologize from the bottom of my heart,” she added in her Instagram post.
Showing solidarity and support, Feid, J Balvin, and Ovy on the Drums reposted Karol G’s message. J Balvin commented, “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 G concluded her statement by reiterating her appreciation for her fans’ support and expressing gratitude to the artists who collaborated on “+57 song,” emphasizing the positive energy during the song’s creation. Despite the backlash, “+57 song” remains a significant release, sparking important conversations about lyrical interpretation and responsibility in music.
