J Balvin says the global success of Spanish-language artists has reinforced his decision not to record an album in English, pointing to Karol G, Bad Bunny, and others as evidence that crossing over no longer requires changing languages.
“I don’t need to do it,” Balvin told GQ when asked whether he would consider making an album entirely in English. “Spanish has become so global.”
“It’s a blessing that a lot of people are learning Spanish because they want to know what we’re saying,” he continued. “So there’s no need for me to put out an album in English. I never wanted to do it.”
Balvin pointed to Shakira as an example of how the crossover model once worked, noting that she would follow Spanish-language hits with English versions to reach a wider audience. He also credited Daddy Yankee’s “Gasolina” with helping pave the way.
“I see other artists from my country, like Maluma and Karol G, and there are also artists like Bad Bunny,” Balvin said. “So it’s our moment. It’s not a trend. Now it’s really a movement.”
