11:11
Even before the rhythm of reggaetón became a truly global pop phenomenon, Maluma proved himself especially skilled at massaging música urbana for the masses. A hit on multiple continents, the Colombian singer’s risqué “Felices los 4” made a strong case for his potential to bring Latin pop worldwide. Released almost one year to the date after his *F.A.M.E.* LP, the colossal sonics of *11:11* continue that work with a cross-cultural and intergenerational selection of guests, including seminal veteran Ricky Martin and Medellín urbano great Farina. With Nicky Jam along for the ride, they drop references to other big Spanish-language singles of this moment on the similarly ambitious “No Puedo Olvidarte.” All but named in that particular song, like-minded boundary pusher Ozuna duets with grace on the dembow ballad “Dispuesto.” Leaving the door graciously open for apprehensive English-speaking listeners, he again matches wits with Madonna on the booming and bilingual “Soltera” and echoes romantic anxiety alongside the coincidentally concerned rap lothario Ty Dolla $ign on “Tu Vecina.” Even without the high-profile features, Maluma justifies his top billing among these players with virtuosic flair as persuasive reggaetonero on “Déjale Saber” and surprise salsero on “Te Quiero.”
It’s easy to reel off stats illustrating Maluma’s global pop phenomenon status: the Colombian singer has 40 million Instagram followers, more videos with a billion YouTube views than Ed Sheeran and an ongoing 43-date arena tour that’s headed for Madison Square Garden.
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