Karol G responds to criticism over ‘+57’ lyric: ‘I still have much to learn’
The Colombian pop star’s new song has been criticized for allegedly promoting the sexualization of minors.
Karol G has addressed the controversy surrounding a lyric from her new song, which has been criticized for allegedly sexualizing minors.
The popular reggaeton artist released her party anthem “+57” on Thursday, featuring contributions from notable Colombian artists including J Balvin, Maluma, Ryan Castro, Blessd, DFZM, and her partner Feid.
However, a particular lyric has come under fire for its suggestive meaning. The line refers to a woman’s allure, with Feid and Maluma singing in Spanish, “A mamacita since she was 14.”
In a message on her Instagram Stories, Karol expressed her frustration with the misunderstandings surrounding the song. “As artists, we are subject to public opinion and individual interpretations from those who appreciate our work as well as those who critique it,” she stated. “I am troubled by the misinformation that has circulated.”
Colombian agency claims Karol G’s song ‘reinforces the sexualization of childhood’
Following the release of “+57,” critics have condemned the lyric for mentioning a young girl. In a recent column, Rolling Stone’s MartÃn Toro commented that the song “perpetuates the sexualization of minors.”
The Colombian Institute of Family Welfare, a government organization focused on child and adolescent protection, also commented on the matter in a video statement. Its director, Astrid Cáceres Cárdenas, suggested that the lyrics hint at a network of human trafficking in Colombia, where young girls are lured to parties where they might face sexual exploitation.
The agency stated, “Content like this only reinforces the sexualization of childhood in our nation,” accompanied by Cárdenas’ statement in an X post.
Known for her philanthropic efforts, Karol supports women’s causes through the Con Cora Foundation, a nonprofit she established in 2022 aimed at aiding the development of underserved women socially, psychologically, and artistically.
Con Cora collaborates with organizations like the She Is Foundation and Fundación Acción Interna to empower women, offering scholarships to female prisoners in Bogotá and promoting STEM education for young women.
Karol G acknowledges ‘responsibility’ for ‘+57’ lyric dispute
“None of the sentiments expressed in the song carry the meanings they have been assigned, and they were not intended as such. However, I am listening, and I take responsibility for my words and recognize that I still have much to learn,” Karol explained. “This has affected me deeply, and I sincerely apologize.”
Karol concluded her post with gratitude towards her fans and collaborators, stating that she will cherish the wonderful energy they all shared during the creation of the song.
“I strive daily to engage in projects that allow me to spread kindness and positively affect many lives,” Karol added.
Support has come from her collaborators J Balvin and Feid during the controversy, with Balvin affirming on his Instagram Stories, “This does not diminish your greatness.”
As of this publication, the music video for “+57” still remains available online and has garnered over 17 million views.
