J Balvin unleashes "Gaga"

Sunday 21st July 2024

Release date: Out now Label: Universal

J Balvin has never been shy about drawing and giving energy to and from those around him. His collaborative spirit has been on full display from the very beginnings of his career, and nowhere is it more evident than on his highly anticipated forthcoming album Rayo. And to coincide with the album announcement, Balvin has released his second single from the project titled, “Gaga” produced by reggaeton hitmakers Keityn and L.e.x.v.z, featuring a special collaboration with Spanish sensation SAIKO.

And though the collabs on this album range from reggaeton legends like Chencho Corleone and Zion, to compatriot megastars like Feid, to Mexican icon Carin Leon, it's in the connections with up-and-coming global artists like Spanish superstars Bad Gyal and Quevedo, where we see Balvin’s incessant need to pull those around him up, while at the same time basking in their energy and influence to create singular works that elevate the genre to its next era.

It’s this earnest need for human connection that drove Balvin to create an album that feels more like a house party than a collection of songs. Rayo is the embodiment of community, and listening through feels like a glimpse into what Balvin’s ideal playlist would sound like, with music’s biggest names mingling with tomorrow’s superstars. The album blends reggaeton with elements of electronic pop, dembow and urban sounds with features from old friends and new: Blessd, Dei V, Luar La L, Ryan Castro, Omar Courtz and YOVNGCHIMI.

To accompany the latest single is an all-new music video with stunning visuals that give the first glimpse into the cinematic universe of Rayo. Directed by visionary filmmaker Jean Lafleur, an Antiestatico Production and shot in London, the video transports viewers into a mesmerizing chromatic world that references the theme of the new album cover with the metallic car and his iconic ‘lightning bolt’ symbol that can be found throughout. The lightning bolt has been a signature symbol for Balvin for many years – a testament to the radiant energy exchange that is Rayo.

Posted by Craig Jones