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Karol G
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Carolina Giraldo Navarro (born February 14, 1991), known professionally as Karol G, is a Colombian singer and songwriter. Considered as one of the most influential reggaeton and urban pop artists,[2][3] she has received awards including a Grammy, eight Latin Grammy Awards and five Billboard Music Awards. She was recognized as Woman of the Year and with a Rulebreaker Award at Billboard Women in Music, with the Spirit of Hope Award at the Billboard Latin Music Awards, and has eleven Guinness World Records.
Key Information
Born and raised in Medellín, Colombia, Giraldo launched her career as a teenager, appearing on the Colombian spinoff of The X Factor. She moved to New York in 2014 to learn more about the music industry and signed with Universal Music Latino. In late 2018, her duet "Secreto" became a hit in Latin America, as she and Puerto Rican artist Anuel AA publicly confirmed their relationship via the music video.
In July 2019, she released "China" in collaboration with Anuel AA, Daddy Yankee, Ozuna, and J Balvin, which became her first music video with over one billion views on YouTube. In May 2019, she released the album Ocean, which served as a stylistic departure from Unstoppable, incorporating a more relaxed and less "pop" sound while incorporating reggaetón influences. Popular singles from the album include the title track (later released as a remix with Jessie Reyez). Later that year, her song "Tusa" charted internationally and was certified 28× Latin platinum by the RIAA. In 2020, Giraldo received four nominations at the Latin Grammy Awards. Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, and into early 2021, she would release successful songs, including some of her most famous ("Ay, Dios Mío!", "Bichota" and "Location"), in the lead-up to her third album, KG0516, which was released in spring of that year, topping the U.S. Latin albums chart.
Giraldo released her fourth album, Mañana Será Bonito, in the spring of 2023; the record was immediately recognized as the first-ever Spanish-language album by a female artist to debut at No. 1 on the U.S. Billboard 200.[4] She achieved her highest-charting single on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 with the song "TQG", a collaboration with fellow Colombian singer-songwriter Shakira, reaching the No. 7 position. In early 2024, she received her first Grammy Award, at the 66th annual ceremony, for the recently created Música Urbana Album category.
Early life
[edit]Carolina Giraldo Navarro was born on 14 February 1991 in Medellín, the youngest of three children.[5] At age 14, she appeared on El Factor X.[5] Giraldo posted covers of songs by Alicia Keys and Lauryn Hill on YouTube, in hopes of being discovered like Justin Bieber.[6] Ultimately, she obtained her first record contract with Flamingo Records (Colombia) and Diamond Music (Puerto Rico) and chose "Karol G" as her artistic name. In her first year she was invited by Kio Dj to open for Don Omar's concerts in the city of Cartagena,[7] She performed with J Balvin at a quinceañera party soon after.[5]
Musical career
[edit]2007–2016: Beginnings
[edit]
In the following years, Giraldo recorded and released songs sporadically, including "En la Playa" (On the Beach) in 2007, "Por Ti" (For You) in 2008, "Dime Que Sí" (Tell Me Yes) in 2009 and "Mil Maneras" (A Thousand Ways) in 2010.[8] She studied music at the University of Antioquia and sang backup for other artists during her studies, including Reykon, recording the songs "Tu Juguete" (Your Toy) in 2011 and "301" in 2012.[5] Shortly after, she traveled to Miami to meet with Universal Records, who declined to sign her at the time, insinuating that a woman would not be successful in the reggaetón genre.[9]
In response to Universal Music's rejection, Giraldo and her father decided to promote her career independently, touring domestically across Colombia at colleges, clubs, and festivals. She recalled, "I always said that if we'd made money per miles, we'd be millionaires. It was a long process... and because of it, I can truly enjoy what's happening now."[9] The increased publicity through these tours led to her 2013 collaboration with Nicky Jam on the song "Amor de Dos" (The Love of Two).[8]
However, finding that her music career was not progressing fast enough in South America, a disillusioned Giraldo moved to New York in 2014 to work and stay with her aunt. Feeling somewhat lost over her lack of success at the time, she later said that when taking the NYC Subway each day, to and from work, she would see various advertisements offering educational courses and certifications for the music business. Taking this as a sign, Giraldo eventually decided to enroll in music business administration classes. The decision helped reinvigorate her passion for music, motivating her to continue furthering her career.[8] Her 2014 dancehall song "Ricos Besos" (Sweet Kisses) became a hit in Colombia.[5] In 2016, she signed with Universal Music Latino.[5] During that year, she released the singles "Casi Nada" (Almost Nothing), "Hello" with then-rising star Ozuna, and "Muñeco de Lego" (Lego Doll) as lead-ups to her album release. In November 2024, Karol G released the single "+57," a collaboration featuring fellow Colombian artists Feid, J Balvin, Maluma, Ryan Castro, Blessd, and producer Ovy on the Drums. The title references Colombia's international dialing code. The track achieved significant chart success, reaching number one on Billboard's Latin Airplay chart and number four on the Hot Latin Songs chart.[10]
2017–2018: Breakthrough success and Unstoppable
[edit]
In January 2017, Karol G joined the reality talent show Pequeños Gigantes USA (Little Giants) as a judge, offering advice to children 6–11 years of age who performed on the show.[11] In February, she released the breakup song "A Ella" (To Her), a song inspired by real-life events. In May, her collaboration with Puerto Rican trap artist Bad Bunny "Ahora Me Llama" (Now He Calls Me) became regarded as her breakthrough hit.[9][8][5] The video garnered more than one billion views on YouTube and reached #10 on the Billboard Hot Latin Songs chart.[12][13] The song was described by Marty Preciado of NPR as a "bass-heavy, unapologetic trap anthem to the power of femininity, soiled in hi-hats and heavy sub-bass [that] challenges hegemonic masculinity, singing about respect, love and sex-positive decisions."[14] According to Ecleen Luzmila Caraballo, of Rolling Stone, "it was then that Giraldo joined the increasingly-global pop urbano wave and established herself as one of its most standout acts".[5] "Ahora Me Llama" was listed on "Alt. Latino's Favorites: The Songs of 2017" as one of the best Latin songs of 2017.[14]
"Ahora Me Llama" served as the main single (including a remix featuring Quavo from Migos) for her debut studio album, Unstoppable; the record also contained the three aforementioned singles, and was released in October 2017, debuting at #2 on the Billboard Top Latin Albums chart.[15] Thom Jurek of AllMusic called Unstoppable "the first solid entry by a woman in the Latin trap movement".[16] In March 2018, the singer released the jungle-inspired music video for her single "Pineapple".[17] In that same month, she was announced as a nominee for the Billboard Latin Music Awards' Top Female Artist of the Year.[17]
On 6 April 2018, Karol G collaborated with Argentine singer and songwriter Tini on the song "Princesa", from Tini's second studio album Quiero Volver.[18][19][20]
In May 2018, she released "Mi Cama" (My Bed), which became a commercial success. This was followed by "Culpables" (Guilty Ones), featuring Puerto Rican rapper (and eventual partner) Anuel AA.[8] "Culpables" peaked at #8 on the Billboard Hot Latin Songs chart, and a remix of "Mi Cama", featuring her early collaborators J Balvin and Nicky Jam, peaked at #6 on the same chart.[12]
2019–2021: Ocean and KG0516
[edit]
In January 2019, the singer released the single "Secreto" (Secret) with Puerto Rican rapper Anuel AA; the song's accompanying music video confirmed the rumored romantic relationship between the two artists.[21] The single reached #68 on the Billboard Hot 100 and #5 on the US Hot Latin Songs charts.[22][23] The song was inspired by the period of time in which Anuel AA and Karol G were dating but had not yet publicly discussed their relationship. The video's "power couple" aesthetic garnered comparisons to Beyoncé and Jay-Z, as well as Jennifer Lopez and Marc Anthony.[24] Karol released the album Ocean on May 3, 2019. The album was inspired by a moment of peace and relaxation she experienced at the beach on the Spanish Canary Island of Tenerife; she traveled to the beaches of the Turks and Caicos Islands, as well as Saint Martin, to draw further inspiration for the album.[8] Elias Leight of Rolling Stone reviewed the album by stating, "The power of Ocean is somewhat diminished by the fact that a third of these songs are already out" but opined that "the remaining tracks are impressively varied".[25]
In July 2019, Karol G collaborated with Anuel AA, Daddy Yankee, Ozuna and J Balvin for the song "China". The song samples, and is based on, singer Shaggy's 2000 hit, "It Wasn't Me".[26] "China" debuted at #2 on Billboard's Hot Latin Songs chart on the issue dated 3 August 2019, and topped both the Latin Digital Songs and Latin Streaming Songs charts with 1,000 downloads sold and 14.1 million streams.[26] "China" was included on the Rolling Stone list of the 10 Best Latin Music Videos of July.[27] Karol G premiered the song on American television on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon on 10 January 2020.[28] The song reached #1 on the Billboard Hot Latin Songs chart on 23 November 2019 and stayed on the chart for 25 weeks.[12] Karol G released "Tusa", the first single from her album KG0516, on 7 November 2019. Tusa, a reggaeton song featuring Nicki Minaj, became a commercial success, eventually being nominated for Record of the Year and Song of the Year at the 21st Annual Latin Grammy Awards.[29]
In April 2020, Karol G released the single and video for "Follow" with Anuel AA, recording its entirety while in quarantine in Miami due to the COVID-19 pandemic.[30] She also collaborated with the Jonas Brothers on the "flirtatious" song "X" which first appeared in the end credits of the group's documentary film Happiness Continues.[31] Karol G and the Jonas Brothers filmed the song's accompanying music video on their iPhones, using the combined footage as a "clever way to get around the obvious challenge of trying to film a music video during the COVID-19 crisis".[31] In October, "Bichota" was released as the album's official lead single, becoming viral online.[32]
On 17 March 2021, Karol G announced the release of her upcoming album as well as its release date and cover art through a half-minute video.[33][34] The tracklist was announced on 22 March,[35] and on 26 March, KG0516 was released. Karol G released "Sejodioto" on 21 September 2021. In October 2021, Karol G teamed up with Smirnoff for their "Sabor for the People" campaign. As part of the deal, her Bichota Tour was presented by Smirnoff.[36]
2023–present: Mañana Será Bonito and Tropicoqueta
[edit]On 14 February 2022, Karol G and Crocs announced a partnership by unveiling two different shoe silhouettes.[37] In April 2022, "Provenza" was released as the lead single of the then unannounced album, Mañana Será Bonito, The song became a commercial success and was nominated for both Record and Song of the Year at the 23rd Annual Latin Grammy Awards. The title refers to a neighborhood of Medellín called Provenza.[38] In August 2022 Karol G released "Gatúbela" alongside Puerto Rican rapper Maldy from Reggaeton duo Plan B. The song features a beat characteristic of old-school, 2000s reggaetón, with a dembow rhythm. Its music video was initially banned online in certain countries for being sexually provocative, though it was later made available as no actual nudity is seen. The video also takes some inspiration from older horror movies (as her prowling cat-woman character can be seen covered in blood at the end), and is the first to show off Karol G's dyed red hair.[39][40][41][42][43]
On 19 February 2023, Karol G was among the headlining artists at the famous Viña del Mar International Song Festival in Viña del Mar/Valparaíso, Chile, where she performed a live-streamed show for over 15,000 fans.[44] On 24 February, Karol G's album Mañana Será Bonito was released,[45] alongside the collaboration "TQG" with Shakira. The album peaked at number one on the Billboard 200, becoming the first-ever Spanish-language album by a female artist to debut at No. 1, while the collaboration achieved her highest-charting single on the Billboard Hot 100, peaking at seven. The project garnered seven nominations at the 24th Annual Latin Grammy Awards, winning three awards, including Album of the Year and Best Urban Music Album, while "TQG" won for Best Urban Fusion/Performance.[46] This made Karol G the first woman to win the Latin Grammy Award for Best Urban Music Album.[47] At the subsequent 66th Annual Grammy Awards the album won an award for Best Música Urbana Album.[48]
In June 2023, Karol G signed with Interscope Records.[49][50] On 2 June 2023 Karol G released "Watati", a promotional single from Barbie the Album which featured the Panamanian reggaeton artist Aldo Ranks.[51] The music video was released on 15 June 2023.[52] Karol G released a song called "S91" on 13 July 2023, along with a music video directed by Pedro Artola.[53] On 11 August 2023 Karol G released a companion mixtape to Mañana Será Bonito, called Mañana Será Bonito (Bichota Season). It includes lead single "S91" and a second single titled "Mi Ex Tenía Razón" released on the same day as its parent mixtape. The album includes collaborations with Peso Pluma, Kali Uchis, and Tiësto, among others.[54]
In 2024 she became the first Latina named Woman of the Year at Billboard Women in Music.[55]
On June 20, 2024, she released her single, Si Antes Te Hubiera Conocido, her venture into merengue. The song peaked at the top of the Hot Latin Songs chart and peaked at #32 on the Billboard Hot 100 and made the year-end list for 2024. The song also became the longest running #1 on the Latin Airplay chart, with a total of 27 weeks spent at the number-one position.
Also in 2024, she appeared in a recurring role in the Netflix miniseries Griselda, starring Sofía Vergara.[56]
In August 2024, Karol G was added to Fortnite Battle Royale as an outfit, with an additional outfit being included in the Fortnite Festival Season Pass. She also received instruments, a limited-time in-game concert titled Mañana Será Bonito, and other themed content.[57][58][59]
On 5 September 2025, Karol G performed at the halftime show of the National Football League's Brazil game.[60]
On October 15, she appeared at the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show 2025, where she performed two songs from her album, Tropicoqueta, and walked the runway. [61] Karol G is the first ever Colombian artist to perform, or walk for the Victoria Secret Fashion Show. [62]
Artistry
[edit]Musical style
[edit]Karol G's music has been described as predominantly reggaeton and Latin urban,[2][3] with some Latin trap influences.[8][9] However, she has experimented with a variety of other genres in her work. Her album Ocean features a wide range of stylistic experimentation. She collaborated with Brazilian duo Simone & Simaria on the Spanish/Portuguese song "La Vida Continuó", which contains influences from the genre of sertanejo.[8] Karol G cites the global appeal of singers Rihanna, Beyoncé, Selena Quintanilla and Shakira as major influences in her work and the level of global recognition she hopes to achieve, with Rihanna being a "dream" collaboration.[5] Karol G has a tattoo of portraits of Rihanna and Quintanilla, along with her own face, on her right forearm.[9] Additional influences include Daddy Yankee, Maluma, Gloria Trevi, Backstreet Boys,[63] Christina Aguilera,[64] Ivy Queen,[65] Anahí,[66] Thalía, Spice Girls, Jerry Rivera, Bee Gees, and Red Hot Chili Peppers.[5]
Public image
[edit]Ecleen Luzmila Caraballo of Rolling Stone describes Karol G's style of dress as "feminine and sexy, yet sporty and tomboyish — but never [cutesy]".[5] Gary Suarez of Vice notes that in her music videos, "she exudes a sex positivity that reflects a powerful diva image front and center, rather than the eye candy tropes often found in urbano visuals."[8] Karol G has a large LGBT following, and the singer expressed admiration for her gay fans by explaining, "I love people who can go out into the world and be fearless...That's something I admire very much from that community. They have a beautiful energy."[65] She declined to record "Sin Pijama" with Becky G, which would become a collaboration with Natti Natasha and be a hit, because of a lyric about smoking marijuana in the song. Karol G, who does not smoke marijuana, felt that the song did not represent her true lifestyle.[9] For her album Ocean, Karol G moved away from the polished image of the Unstoppable album cover, with the artist explaining, "I did the picture with no makeup, super natural. Because that's the way I want people to listen to my music now."[8]
In 2020, Karol G's tweet about her dog's "perfect" color and citing it as an example of white and black looking beautiful together sparked controversy. She later admitted to have acted in "an ignorant way" at a time when Black Lives Matter had gripped America in 2020. Karol G also admitted to have "lost a lot of opportunities" in her interview with The Guardian.[67]
Personal life
[edit]
Karol G met Puerto Rican rapper Anuel AA in August 2018 on the set of the music video for their song "Culpables", a month after his release from prison.[68] In January 2019, the couple announced their relationship.[24] On 25 April 2019, Karol G publicised her engagement to the rapper by appearing at the Billboard Latin Music Awards wearing a diamond ring.[68] On 20 April 2021, Anuel AA stated that he and Karol G had ended their relationship and engagement.[69] As of early 2023, Karol G's relationship with Colombian musician Feid was shown after they attended the Billboard Women in Music 2024 event together.[70]
On 29 February 2024, Karol G's Gulfstream IV, en route from Hollywood Burbank Airport to El Salvador International Airport for her Mañana Será Bonito Tour, made an emergency landing at Van Nuys Airport due to a report from the pilot of smoke in the cockpit. All 16 passengers onboard the plane, including Karol G, were evacuated safely with no injuries.[71]
Discography
[edit]Studio albums
[edit]- Unstoppable (2017)
- Ocean (2019)
- KG0516 (2021)
- Mañana Será Bonito (2023)
- Tropicoqueta (2025)
Filmography
[edit]Tours
[edit]Headlining
- Bichota Tour (2021–22)
- Strip Love Tour (2022)
- Mañana Será Bonito Tour (2023–24)
Promotional
- Girl Power Tour (2017)
Co-headlining
- Culpables Tour (with Anuel AA) (2019)
Opening act
- Diosa de la Noche Tour (with Gloria Trevi) (2019)
Awards and nominations
[edit]Karol G has received several awards and nominations including eight Latin Grammy Awards (including Album of the Year), one Grammy Award, five Billboard Music Awards, three MTV Europe Music Awards, one MTV Video Music Award, one American Music Award and ten Lo Nuestro Awards, among others.
References
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- ^ "Karol G desplegó sus alas durante su paso por el Victoria's Secret Fashion Show 2025: Así fue su presentación" (in Spanish). Infobae. 16 October 2025. Retrieved 16 October 2025.
- ^ "Karol G is officially a Victoria's Secret Angel: Relive her historic night here". HOLA! USA. 16 October 2025. Retrieved 19 October 2025.
- ^ The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon (25 March 2021). "Karol G Is a Huge Backstreet Boys Fan". Archived from the original on 10 June 2021. Retrieved 4 April 2021 – via YouTube.
- ^ "Reggaeton Queen Karol G Is The One To Watch". V. 15 September 2020. Archived from the original on 25 February 2021. Retrieved 18 February 2022.
- ^ a b Villa, Lucas (31 March 2020). "Karol G On The Magic Of "Tusa," Working With Nicki Minaj And New Album". Vibe. Archived from the original on 21 December 2022. Retrieved 5 May 2020.
- ^ Roiz, Jessica (12 June 2022). "Karol G & Anahi Join Forces for Emotional Performance of RBD's 'Salvame': Watch". Billboard. Archived from the original on 13 June 2022. Retrieved 13 June 2022.
- ^ Abbott Galvão, Carolina (29 March 2021). "Karol G: 'Why should I limit how I express myself because I'm a woman?'". The Guardian. Archived from the original on 31 March 2021. Retrieved 28 May 2021.
- ^ a b Fernandez, Celia (2 May 2019). "Inside Karol G and Anuel AA's Whirlwind Relationship". Oprah Magazine. Archived from the original on 4 February 2021. Retrieved 16 April 2020.
- ^ Roiz, Jessica (21 April 2021). "Karol G & Anuel AA Confirm Breakup: 'We Still Love Each Other'". Billboard. Archived from the original on 19 March 2021. Retrieved 6 October 2021.
- ^ Hernandez, Jeanette (7 March 2024). "Karol G & Feid Finally Hard Launch Their Relationship — Here's the Latest". Remezcla. Archived from the original on 23 July 2024. Retrieved 23 July 2024.
- ^ Watson, Michelle (1 March 2024). "Jet carrying Grammy-winning artist Karol G makes emergency landing | CNN". CNN. Retrieved 19 March 2025.
- Dámaris Beatriz Alcántara-Segura, & Espinoza-Robles, L. T. (2022). Post-feminism and Post-truth in Reggaeton Video Clips on Youtube. In Álvaro Rocha, D. Barredo, P. C. López-López, & I. Puentes-Rivera (Eds.), Communication and Smart Technologies (pp. 123–130). Springer.
- Coscarelli, J. (2023, September 19). Shakira, Karol G and Edgar Barrera Lead Latin Grammy Nominations. New York Times (Online).
External links
[edit]Karol G
View on GrokipediaCarolina Giraldo Navarro (born February 14, 1991), known professionally as Karol G, is a Colombian singer and songwriter recognized for her work in reggaeton and Latin trap genres.[1][2][3]
Born in Medellín, she began her career competing on Colombia's version of The X Factor and gained breakthrough success in 2017 with the collaboration "Ahora Me Llama" alongside Bad Bunny, marking her entry into global Latin urban music charts.[1][2]
Karol G has achieved commercial milestones, including her 2023 album Mañana Será Bonito, which became the first Spanish-language album by a female artist to debut at number one on the Billboard 200.[4]
Her influence extends to breaking barriers for women in the male-dominated reggaeton scene, with subsequent releases like the 2025 album Tropicoqueta showcasing her evolution and deep ties to Latin American musical roots.[5][6]
In 2025, she was the top-winning female artist at the Billboard Latin Music Awards and announced as the first Latina headliner for Coachella in 2026, underscoring her role in elevating Latin representation in major international festivals.[7][8]
Early life
Childhood and family background
Carolina Giraldo Navarro was born on February 14, 1991, in Medellín, Antioquia Department, Colombia, to parents Guillermo Giraldo, a musician, and Martha Navarro.[9][10] She grew up as the youngest of three daughters, with older sisters Verónica Giraldo Navarro and Jessica Giraldo Navarro, in a middle-class household that emphasized familial support for creative pursuits.[11][12] Her father's profession introduced her to music from an early age, fostering an environment where local rhythms and performances were commonplace, though without access to formal training or elite resources.[9][13] The family resided in Medellín during the 1990s, a city grappling with the lingering effects of narco-violence and Pablo Escobar's era, which created a "strange time" of urban instability and cultural shifts influencing everyday life and emerging music scenes.[14] Parents Giraldo and Navarro demonstrated consistent encouragement of her talents, prioritizing persistence over privilege in a context of Colombia's post-conflict socioeconomic pressures.[10][15]Initial musical influences and education
Karol G drew early musical inspiration from reggaeton and urban Latin genres prominent in her native Medellín, where the local scene emphasized rhythmic dembow beats and Spanish-language flows derived from Caribbean and hip-hop roots. She has specifically named Puerto Rican reggaeton pioneer Tego Calderón as a formative influence from her youth, reflecting the genre's raw, street-level energy that shaped her eventual fusion of trap and pop elements.[16] Complementing these urban sounds, Karol G idolized international pop figures, including Selena Quintanilla, whose Tejano crossover success and empowering persona motivated her ambitions in Latin music.[17] She has also expressed fandom for Britney Spears, incorporating similar high-energy performance styles and pop sensibilities into her work, as seen in homages within her videos and playlists.[18] Her formal education was brief and self-directed toward music. After attending Calasanz, a religious school in Medellín, she enrolled to study music at the University of Antioquia but dropped out of college, prioritizing practical experience over structured coursework amid early career setbacks.[9] [19] At age 15 in 2006, she auditioned for El Factor X, Colombia's adaptation of The X Factor, performing covers that showcased her vocal range but did not advance her to widespread recognition.[2] This exposure fueled independent efforts, including self-produced demos and gigs in Medellín clubs, where repeated rejections honed her resilience without reliance on external funding or major industry backing.[20]Musical career
2007–2016: Early releases and independent beginnings
In 2007, at age 16, Karol G appeared on the Colombian television program El Factor X, the local adaptation of The X Factor, which provided her first significant exposure in the music industry despite not advancing far in the competition.[21] This participation led to her early independent releases, beginning with the single "En la Playa" in 2006, a reggaeton track produced amid her nascent efforts to establish herself as a performer.[22] Follow-up singles such as "Por Ti" in 2008 followed under small-scale production, reflecting her initial forays without major backing and resulting in modest local interest rather than widespread commercial success.[23] She aligned with independent outfits like JM World Music, releasing the compilation project Super Single on October 29, 2013, which aggregated tracks recorded from 2006 onward, including "Dime Que Sí" and collaborations like "Mil Maneras" with Alexander DJ originally from around 2010.[24] The latter single saw limited regional play in Colombia upon re-release but lacked penetration into broader markets, including the U.S., underscoring the slow, grassroots accumulation of listeners through digital platforms and local performances absent large-scale promotion.[23] These years were marked by hurdles, including repeated rejections from established labels such as Universal Music Latino, which dismissed her prospects on the grounds that women were unsuited for reggaeton dominance—a prevailing industry sentiment that constrained airplay and distribution for female artists in the male-dominated genre.[25] Such biases fostered incremental progress reliant on personal persistence and minor indie deals rather than institutional amplification.[26]2017–2018: Breakthrough with Unstoppable
In June 2017, Karol G released the single "Ahora Me Llama" featuring Bad Bunny, which quickly gained traction through its official music video uploaded on June 8. The track amassed over 144 million views on YouTube within seven weeks, highlighting the potential for female artists in the male-dominated reggaeton genre.[27][28] This collaboration, produced under her Universal Music Latino deal signed in early 2016, propelled her visibility, reaching No. 11 on Billboard's Hot Latin Songs chart.[29][30] On October 27, 2017, Karol G issued her debut studio album Unstoppable via Universal Music Latino, comprising 13 tracks largely penned by the artist herself and featuring collaborations with Ozuna, Cosculluela, Kevin Roldan, and Bad Bunny. The album debuted at No. 2 on Billboard's Top Latin Albums chart dated November 18, 2017, and topped the Latin Album Sales chart, underscoring its commercial impact driven by digital streaming and sales.[31][32][29] Key singles like "Ahora Me Llama" exemplified the partnership strategy that amplified her reach within Latin urban music circles. The success of Unstoppable marked a pivotal shift, fueled by viral social media dissemination and streaming platforms, transitioning Karol G from niche independent releases to broader Latin market recognition by late 2018. This period established foundational metrics for her ascent, with the album's lead single sustaining chart presence and video metrics reflecting organic audience growth.[31][27]2019–2021: Ocean, KG0516, and rising international profile
In May 2019, Karol G released Ocean, a 16-track project blending reggaetón and Latin pop elements, which included the title track amassing over 370 million streams on Spotify by mid-2025.[33] The release capitalized on her growing momentum from prior singles, contributing to her expanding presence in Latin music markets through Universal Music Latino distribution.[34] Transitioning into the COVID-19 pandemic, Karol G issued singles like "Bichota" on October 23, 2020, which became an anthem emphasizing female empowerment and resilience, aligning with surging demand for urban tracks portraying strong women amid global lockdowns.[35] This period saw heightened streaming activity worldwide, with platforms reporting overall audio consumption booms as live events halted, amplifying digital metrics for artists like Karol G whose content resonated via online platforms.[36] On March 25, 2021, she dropped KG0516, her third studio album, which achieved the largest debut week for a Spanish-language album by a Latin female artist on global charts and topped the Billboard Top Latin Albums chart.[37] Featuring 16 tracks with collaborations including Nicki Minaj on "Tusa," the album secured multi-platinum certifications in several countries, driven by hits that propelled her U.S. and international visibility.[34] Collaborations with artists like Anuel AA on tracks such as "Follow" in April 2020 further broadened her appeal, leveraging personal ties and cross-cultural pairings to penetrate non-Spanish markets.[38] In late 2021, the Bichota Tour launched as her first U.S. headlining outing, selling out arenas despite lingering pandemic restrictions, with adaptations like enhanced virtual streaming elements aiding fan engagement.[39] These efforts solidified her profile, with album streams and tour revenues reflecting a causal link between pandemic-induced digital shifts and her ascent in reggaetón's global ecosystem.2022–2023: Mañana Será Bonito and commercial dominance
Karol G released her fourth studio album, Mañana Será Bonito, on February 24, 2023, through Bichota Records and Interscope Records.[40] The album debuted at number one on the Billboard 200 chart dated March 11, 2023, with 94,000 equivalent album units, marking the first time a female artist achieved a number-one debut with an all-Spanish-language album and the first for a woman in the urban genre.[40][41] This success reflected the growing saturation of Latin urban music in global streaming markets, where reggaeton and related genres had expanded listener bases through consistent high-output releases rather than sporadic hype.[42] The lead single "TQG", featuring Shakira and released on March 2, 2023, propelled the album's momentum, amassing over 700 million streams on Spotify by late 2023 and contributing to its crossover appeal.[43] By mid-2024, "TQG" exceeded 1 billion global streams on the platform, underscoring Karol G's ability to dominate Latin charts while rivaling male counterparts in sustained playback hours.[44] On Spotify's 2023 Latin metrics, Karol G ranked as the top-streamed female urban artist, surpassing many male peers in cumulative hours due to her album's 32 million first-day streams—the record for a Latin female release—and tracks like "Si Antes Te Hubiera Conocido" that sustained top positions on global daily charts.[45][42] In 2023, Karol G launched the Mañana Será Bonito Tour, a sequel to her earlier Bichota Tour, which grossed over $138 million from its U.S. leg alone across 15 stadium shows, selling 759,000 tickets and setting benchmarks for Latin touring revenue amid the genre's market expansion.[46] This tour's financial dominance highlighted her empirical edge in live performances, where urban Latin acts increasingly captured high-capacity venues previously led by male artists, driven by fan loyalty built through reliable content pipelines rather than transient trends.[47]2024–2025: +57 single, Tropicoqueta, and Netflix documentary
In November 2024, Karol G released the single "+57" featuring Feid, DFZM, Ovy on the Drums, J Balvin, Maluma, Ryan Castro, and Blessd, a collaboration highlighting Colombian pride through the country's international dialing code.[48] [49] The track, written collectively and produced by Ovy on the Drums, debuted amid notable attention but encountered immediate backlash, as explored in related controversies. Earlier that year, in February, Karol G secured her first Grammy Award for Best Música Urbana Album with Mañana Será Bonito.[50] Transitioning phases marked Karol G's output into 2025, with the June 20 release of her fifth studio album Tropicoqueta via Bichota Records and Interscope, comprising 20 tracks over 58 minutes.[51] The project represented a deliberate multi-genre evolution, incorporating elements of vallenato, merengue, bachata, and Brazilian funk alongside her reggaeton roots, framed as a deeply personal "love letter to Latin America" reflective of her artistic maturation and cultural exploration.[5] [52] In discussions, such as with Zane Lowe, she emphasized the album's ties to life beyond music and Colombian identity.[53] Tropicoqueta achieved high chart placements across Latin and global streaming platforms, though metrics fell short of the record-breaking benchmarks set by prior releases like Mañana Será Bonito, while sustaining her position among top Latin artists.[54] On May 8, 2025, Netflix premiered the documentary Karol G: Tomorrow Was Beautiful, offering an intimate look at her ascent in reggaeton as a female artist, logistical rigors of sold-out stadium tours, and candid revelations of career pressures and emotional vulnerabilities.[55] [56] [57] The film, rated TV-MA, drew widespread viewership and critical acclaim for its behind-the-scenes authenticity, aligning with her ongoing streaming dominance despite transitional dips in peak performance.[58]Artistry
Musical style and genre evolution
Karol G's musical foundation lies in reggaeton, a genre built on syncopated dembow rhythms originating from Jamaican dancehall and reggae en español, which emphasize percussive basslines and rapid-fire delivery.[59] Her tracks consistently feature these elements as a rhythmic core, driving dance-oriented structures that prioritize perreo—a high-energy, grinding dance style intrinsic to reggaeton's party ethos.[60] Early outputs, such as those preceding her 2017 breakthrough, adhered closely to this blueprint, interweaving pop melodies to soften the urban edge without fully departing from dembow-driven propulsion.[61] Post-2020, her sound shifted toward deliberate genre fusions, integrating Latin trap's distorted 808 kicks and hi-hat rolls with pop's layered synth hooks and verse-chorus frameworks, as evident in albums like Mañana Será Bonito.[62] This evolution broadened accessibility—trap adding gritty introspection to beats, pop infusing melodic accessibility—while preserving reggaeton's foundational pulse, resulting in hybrid tracks that dissect perreo intensity with crossover polish.[63] Production hallmarks include synth-heavy arrangements, often crafted via collaborations with Ovy on the Drums, who employs saw-wave synth bass and electronic layering to standardize her beats' sheen and adaptability across radio formats.[64][65] Lyrically, Karol G foregrounds female agency in romance and self-assertion, framing women as protagonists in desire and heartbreak narratives that counter reggaeton's historical male gaze.[66] Themes of empowerment through sensuality and relational autonomy recur, yet some analyses critique instances of materialism or hedonism, where opulent imagery veers into excess, as in tracks emphasizing luxury and partying over relational depth.[67] This stylistic progression—from reggaeton-dominant early phases to balanced urban-pop-trap matrices—facilitates empirical crossover, evidenced by sustained chart penetration without eroding genre origins.[68]Influences, voice, and songwriting approach
Karol G has drawn significant influences from 1990s reggaeton pioneers, particularly Ivy Queen, whose role in establishing female presence in the male-dominated genre shaped her early aspirations as a teenager.[16] She has also cited hip-hop artists such as Lauryn Hill and Missy Elliott for their lyrical depth and rhythmic innovation, blending these with her Colombian roots to inform her urban sound.[69] Her voice operates in an alto to mezzo-soprano range, typically spanning from A3 to B4, which suits the conversational delivery common in reggaeton and Latin trap.[70] Karol G frequently employs auto-tune not for pitch correction alone but to add a textured, futuristic edge that aligns with urban production aesthetics, as heard in tracks like "Tusa" where it layers her natural timbre over dembow beats for emotional resonance without altering core phrasing.[71] In songwriting, Karol G emphasizes autobiographical hooks drawn from personal relationships and resilience, collaborating closely with producers like Ovy on the Drums to refine raw ideas into structured narratives.[72] She claims credits on a substantial portion of her catalog, including all 16 songs contributing to her chart positions from the 2023 album Mañana Será Bonito, allowing direct causal control over thematic authenticity compared to peers reliant on ghostwriters.[73] This approach favors rhythmic propulsion—prioritizing syncopated flows and repetitive cadences over intricate melodic development—as exemplified in "Bichota," where the hook's percussive phrasing drives listener engagement through beat-aligned storytelling rather than harmonic variation.[74]Commercial achievements
Album sales, streaming records, and chart performance
Karol G's music has achieved substantial commercial success, with over 33 billion streams on Spotify as of October 2025, encompassing her lead and featured tracks.[75] In the United States, her catalog has surpassed 21 million certified units across albums and singles according to RIAA data as of April 2024.[76] She holds 50 Diamond certifications from the RIAA, reflecting high-volume digital sales and streaming equivalents primarily in the Latin category.[37] Her third studio album, Mañana Será Bonito (2023), debuted at number one on the Billboard 200 with 94,000 equivalent album units in its first week, including 83,000 from streaming equivalent albums derived from 118.73 million on-demand streams, marking the largest streaming week for a Latin album by a female artist.[40] This positioned it as the first Spanish-language album by a woman to reach the summit of the chart.[40] The follow-up, Mañana Será Bonito (Bichota Season) (2023), entered at number three on the same chart with 67,000 units.[77] Her fifth album, Tropicoqueta (2025), debuted at number three on the Billboard 200, accumulating 57,000 equivalent units, of which 54,500 stemmed from streaming activity.[78] On the Billboard Global 200, Karol G has secured multiple top entries, including the number-one peak for "TQG" with Shakira in 2023.[79] Tracks like "Si Antes Te Hubiera Conocido" (2025) earned recognition as Global 200 Latin Song of the Year at the Billboard Latin Music Awards.[80] Individual singles such as "Provenza" have received elevated Latin certifications, contributing to her dominance in streaming-driven metrics.[81] Earlier releases like Ocean (2019) and KG0516 (2021) bolstered her chart trajectory, with consistent placements on Latin Albums charts leading to sustained equivalent unit accumulation.[82]Touring revenue and global market expansion
The Bichota Tour, supporting Karol G's 2021 album KG0516, generated $30.6 million in gross revenue from 470,665 tickets sold across 46 shows, establishing an early benchmark for her live performance earnings primarily in North and Latin America.[83] This figure reflected strong demand in regional markets but was limited by venue capacities and pre-tour infrastructure. Subsequent tours scaled significantly, with ticket sales driven by rising average prices—often exceeding $100 for premium seats—and repeat attendance from dedicated fans, rather than external funding mechanisms.[47] The Mañana Será Bonito Tour (2023–2024), tied to her fourth studio album, achieved $313.3 million in gross revenue from 2.3 million tickets sold over 65 dates across Latin America, North America, and Europe, marking the highest-earning concert run by a Latin female artist to date.[47][84] This total positioned it among the top 30 highest-grossing tours globally since the 1980s, with per-show averages surpassing $4.8 million, attributable to larger stadium venues and dynamic pricing that capitalized on sell-out velocity.[47] By July 2024, the tour's cumulative earnings underscored her brand's economic viability, as lifetime touring revenue exceeded $400 million from over 3.2 million tickets across major runs.[85] Post-2022, Karol G expanded into non-Latin markets, particularly Europe, where the Mañana Será Bonito leg grossed $43.3 million from 416,000 tickets, the highest for any Latin act on the continent.[86] Arena and stadium sell-outs in cities like Madrid, Paris, and London demonstrated appeal transcending Latin diaspora communities, fueled by streaming crossover and targeted promotion rather than localized subsidies. While Asian dates remained nascent as of 2025, initial announcements for 2026 extensions signal further globalization, building on European success to diversify revenue streams beyond traditional strongholds.[87]Public image and reception
Critical assessments and media portrayal
Rolling Stone described Karol G's 2023 album Mañana Será Bonito as a "post-breakup gem" and her "best music yet," praising its lush production and emotional depth following her split from collaborator Anuel AA.[88] The publication included the record in its list of the 250 greatest albums of the 21st century so far, ranking it at number 191 and highlighting tracks like "Tusa" as early indicators of her genius.[89] Similarly, Pitchfork rated her 2025 release Tropicoqueta an 8.0 out of 10, lauding it as a "tender and expansive" tribute to Latin musical traditions and female entertainers, blending genres from vallenato to Brazilian funk.[90] Critics have occasionally pointed to inconsistencies in execution, with one review of Tropicoqueta calling it a "thrilling, uneven ride" where the artist's ambitious multi-genre vision sometimes falters in cohesion despite its daring scope.[91] Earlier works faced less frequent but noted critiques of repetitive urbano elements, though such assessments remain outnumbered by acclaim for her innovation in a genre often seen as formulaic.[92] Media outlets frequently portray Karol G as the "bichota," a self-coined archetype of female empowerment in reggaeton's male-dominated landscape, emphasizing her resilience and boundary-pushing as a "leading force" who elevates Latin music globally.[93][94] This image contrasts with detractors who argue it risks reinforcing over-sexualized tropes under the guise of boldness, though fan reception—evident in sustained streaming dominance and tour sellouts—prioritizes her authenticity over such concerns.[95] Unlike uniformly adulatory fan discourse, professional critiques occasionally highlight potential stagnation in reggaeton's rhythmic conventions, urging evolution beyond core beats to sustain long-term artistic growth.[5]Cultural impact and fan demographics
Karol G has elevated the prominence of female performers in reggaeton, a genre historically dominated by male artists, by achieving unprecedented commercial success and serving as a role model for aspiring women in urban Latin music.[96][72] Her breakthrough has coincided with increased signings and visibility for female urban artists, demonstrating that determination can overcome industry barriers in a field where women have faced systemic challenges.[25][97] This impact manifests in empowerment themes within her music, which emphasize strength, authenticity, and cultural pride, resonating with listeners and fostering discussions on female resilience in Latinx communities.[98][99] Her role in bridging Latinx heritage with international audiences has amplified reggaeton's global adoption, contributing to the genre's role in Latin music's revenue surge to over $1 billion in the U.S. by 2023, up 16% from the prior year, with streaming accounting for 98% of gains.[100][101] Karol G's fan base skews toward young demographics, particularly Hispanic youth passionate about music as a cultural connector, with concentrated support in Mexico, the United States, Colombia, Spain, and Argentina.[102][94] Surveys indicate broad appeal among global youth, extending beyond Latin America to foster cross-cultural engagement, though popularity metrics show 18% favorable opinion amid 36% fame recognition in broader polls.[103] In fashion, her evolving aesthetic—featuring bold colors, oversized streetwear like baggy jeans and hoodies, and eclectic accessories—has influenced urban trends, positioning her as an icon who adapts reggaeton's stylistic roots into mainstream appeal.[104][105] This extends to endorsements that highlight Latin music's sway over apparel, reinforcing her broader cultural footprint without direct causal claims to industry-wide shifts.[59]Controversies
+57 song lyrics and legal challenges
The song "+57", released on November 8, 2024, as a collaborative reggaeton track celebrating Colombia's international dialing code, featured Karol G alongside J Balvin, Feid, Maluma, Blessd, Ryan Castro, and DFZM.[106] Specific lyrics, such as Karol G's verse "Una mamacita desde los fourteen" (translated as "A little mama since fourteen"), drew immediate criticism for appearing to sexualize underage girls, with detractors arguing it normalized pedophilic undertones and contributed to harmful cultural stereotypes about Colombia as a site of child exploitation.[107] [108] The track amassed tens of millions of streams and views shortly after release, positioning it as a commercial hit despite the uproar.[109] Backlash intensified in Latin American media, prompting Karol G to issue a public apology on November 11, 2024, via social media, where she expressed regret "from the heart," acknowledged having "a lot to learn," and attributed the issue to her relative inexperience in songwriting.[110] [111] She maintained the lyrics were intended to highlight artistic unity and Colombian pride but accepted responsibility for the unintended interpretation, stating they had been "taken out of context."[107] In response, YouTube edited the official video to alter or remove the contentious lines, reflecting platform-level intervention amid public pressure.[109] On April 8, 2025, Colombia's Superior Court of Justice ruled that the original lyrics violated children's rights by sexualizing minors, ordering the artists and their labels to modify the content across streaming platforms and media to prevent further dissemination of the unedited version.[112] [113] The decision, stemming from a lawsuit by child rights advocates, emphasized the lyrics' potential to foster environments conducive to exploitation, though no criminal penalties were imposed on the performers.[114] Supporters of the artists invoked free expression, arguing the phrases reflected colloquial slang or hyperbolic cultural bravado rather than literal endorsement of underage sexualization, as seen in online forums defending the track's festive intent.[115] Critics, however, countered with evidence of real-world harms, citing studies on media's role in perpetuating gender-based violence and child vulnerability in Latin America, dismissing contextual defenses as inadequate given the lyrics' explicit age references.[108] The ruling highlighted tensions between artistic liberty and regulatory oversight, with platforms complying by updating versions while the song retained popularity in altered form.Broader critiques of lyrical content
Karol G's lyrical themes, recurrent across tracks emphasizing female romantic agency, sensual liberation, and post-heartbreak resilience, have drawn scrutiny for potentially normalizing hedonistic lifestyles centered on casual intimacy and objectification. Conservative commentators and cultural observers in Latin America contend that songs portraying women reveling in fleeting pleasures—such as implied rebounds or party-driven encounters—contribute to a erosion of traditional moral frameworks, particularly among adolescent audiences in regions with strong Catholic influences.[108] This perspective aligns with broader reggaeton critiques, where explicit sexual references are seen as causal factors in shifting youth behaviors toward diminished emphasis on commitment.[116] In contrast, feminist analyses highlight these elements as reclamations of autonomy, enabling women to assert control over desire without male-centric narratives dominant in the genre.[117] For example, tracks like "Gatúbela" evoke seductive independence akin to a comic anti-heroine, praised for subverting passivity but criticized in online discourse for reinforcing bodily objectification through hyperbolic sensuality.[118] Similarly, "Latina Foreva" ignited social media divisions, with detractors arguing its celebration of physical allure borders on reductive stereotyping, while supporters frame it as defiant cultural pride.[119] Such debates underscore a pattern where Karol G's output garners parental advisory markings for explicit content more readily tied to female-initiated sexual themes than equivalent male-led urban tracks, correlating with heightened scrutiny in conservative outlets despite comparable genre norms.[120]Personal life
Relationships and privacy
Karol G began a high-profile relationship with Puerto Rican rapper Anuel AA in late 2018, shortly after collaborating on the single "Culpables," which they released in September of that year.[121] [122] The couple publicly confirmed their romance in November 2018 and announced their engagement in April 2019, though they never married.[123] Their partnership, which lasted until April 20, 2021, produced several joint tracks and drew significant media attention due to its intensity and eventual dissolution.[124] In reflections on the breakup, Karol G described profound emotional distress, stating in a 2023 interview that she "wanted to die" amid the pain, yet credited the experience with fostering personal growth and artistic resilience, as it inspired themes of independence in subsequent albums like Mañana Será Bonito.[124] [125] Following the split, Karol G adopted a more guarded approach to her personal life, emphasizing career focus over public disclosures of romantic entanglements.[126] She has not married and has no children as of February 2026.[2] [127] Rumors linking her to Colombian singer Feid emerged around 2021 during his role as an opener on her Bichota Tour, evolving into a confirmed relationship by 2023, with the pair making their red-carpet debut together in May 2025 and sharing living arrangements.[128] [129] [130] Despite this openness in select public appearances and interviews, such as her 2025 Netflix documentary Karol G: Tomorrow Was Beautiful, she maintains boundaries on intimate details, prioritizing professional achievements amid ongoing speculation.[131] [132] In January 2026, TMZ reported that Karol G and Feid had amicably ended their relationship after approximately three years, with sources close to both artists indicating they remain on good terms. Neither the artists nor their representatives have publicly confirmed or denied the split. At the 68th Annual Grammy Awards on February 1, 2026, the two attended separately on the red carpet with no interaction.[133] [134]Health incidents and resilience
Karol G has publicly discussed experiencing episodes of anxiety stemming from a hormonal imbalance that disrupts her metabolism and insulin regulation, resulting in weight fluctuations, sleep disturbances, and heightened emotional stress.[135][136] This condition, detailed in her 2025 Netflix documentary Mañana Fue Muy Bonito, has persisted amid her rising fame, contributing to periods of depression earlier in her career.[137][138] To address these challenges, she has engaged in therapy with a psychologist, crediting professional sessions for providing an outlet to process pressures without halting her professional output.[139] During a November 26, 2021, concert in Miami, she fell down stage stairs while performing, sustaining bruises to her knees, ankle, and shoulders, yet she immediately resumed the set, avoiding any show postponement.[140][141] Her response to these incidents highlights a pattern of perseverance, as evidenced by the seamless progression of her career: the release of her album KG0516 on March 25, 2022, followed by the $trip Love Tour that summer, and the chart-topping Mañana Será Bonito on February 24, 2023, with its accompanying world tour spanning 2023–2024 across 62 dates without reported health-related cancellations.[142] This continuity underscores a professional discipline prioritizing sustained productivity over extended recovery periods.Other professional activities
Filmography and media appearances
Karol G's primary foray into non-musical visual media is the 2025 Netflix documentary Karol G: Tomorrow Was Beautiful, directed by Cristina Costantini, which premiered on May 8, 2025.[55] [143] The film chronicles her career trajectory from her origins in Medellín, Colombia, to international stardom, incorporating raw behind-the-scenes footage of her sold-out stadium tour, album creation process for Mañana Será Bonito, and personal challenges including health issues and relationships.[56] It received critical acclaim, earning a 99% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes based on 82 reviews, praised for its intimate portrayal of her work ethic and trailblazing role for Latina artists in reggaeton.[144] In scripted television, Karol G made her acting debut in the 2024 Netflix miniseries Griselda, portraying Carla, a Medellín native and confidante to the titular drug lord Griselda Blanco, depicted as a sex worker involved in cartel operations.[145] [146] Her recurring role was expanded by producers due to her performance, though she reportedly requested a reduced part to align with her primary focus on music rather than pursuing extensive acting commitments.[147] [148] Karol G has made select guest appearances and judging roles on Latin American television, emphasizing her music expertise over dramatic acting. She served as a judge and team captain on the 2017 talent competition Pequeños Gigantes USA, mentoring child performers aged 6–11 alongside figures like Prince Royce.[149] Additional guest spots include featuring in the travel series El Viaje con Chente (Season 1, Episode 1, showcasing her in Cairo, Egypt) and the cooking show Made From Scratch (Season 2, Episode 3).[150] On February 8, 2026, Karol G made a guest appearance during Bad Bunny's halftime show performance at Super Bowl LX. She appeared on stage in the "casita" segment—a recreation of a set from Bad Bunny's Puerto Rico residency—alongside other celebrity guests, referencing their past collaborations, though she did not perform a solo song. Karol G has not headlined or performed as a main act in any Super Bowl halftime show.[151] [152] [153]| Year | Title | Type | Role/Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2017 | Pequeños Gigantes USA | Talent competition (TV) | Judge and team captain[149] |
| 2024 | Griselda | Miniseries (Netflix) | Carla (recurring, acting debut)[145] |
| 2025 | Karol G: Tomorrow Was Beautiful | Documentary (Netflix) | Subject/herself (premiered May 8)[55] |
| 2026 | Super Bowl LX Halftime Show | Live halftime performance (TV) | Guest appearance in "casita" segment during Bad Bunny's performance[151] [152] |
Business ventures and philanthropy
Karol G established Bichota Records as her imprint label, enabling greater artistic autonomy and reduced dependence on traditional major label structures for releases and artist signings.[154] In May 2025, she partnered with Bravado for expanded merchandising, including apparel and accessories sold via her official store, which has bolstered revenue diversification beyond streaming and tours.[155] Additional ventures include a 2021 collaboration with Colombian brand Oka Loka for limited-edition bubble gum inspired by her "KG0516" aesthetic, and a September 2025 tequila project with Casa Dragones co-founder Bertha González Nieves, marking her entry into spirits.[156][157] In December 2024, she opened three commercial establishments in Medellín, encompassing real estate and hospitality elements to localize her brand presence.[158] These initiatives have demonstrated operational stability, with no reported significant financial setbacks, contributing to her estimated net worth exceeding $25 million as of 2024 through diversified income streams.[159] In philanthropy, Karol G founded the Con Cora Foundation to support girls' and women's empowerment via education and music access, with initiatives centered in Medellín.[160] During the 2020 COVID-19 crisis, she provided direct aid to over 600 low-income families in Medellín and broader Colombia, covering rent and essentials through partnerships with humanitarian groups.[161][162] The foundation's Casa Con Cora project in her hometown includes youth centers and school programs; in October 2024, she visited her former school to launch vulnerability-focused interventions, and a January 2025 Miami gala raised funds for expansion.[163][164] While these efforts target local empowerment, their scope remains modest relative to her commercial success, prioritizing targeted community impact over large-scale global operations.[162]Discography
Studio albums
Karol G's debut studio album, Unstoppable, was released on October 27, 2017, through Universal Music Latino.[165] It has sold 330,000 units worldwide.[166] Her second studio album, KG0516, was released on March 25, 2021, via Universal Music Latino.[167] It debuted at number one on the Billboard Top Latin Albums chart.[168] The album has sold 1,640,000 units.[166] MaÑana Será Bonito, her third studio album, came out on February 24, 2023. It debuted at number one on the Billboard 200, marking the first all-Spanish-language album by a woman to achieve this feat, with 94,000 equivalent album units in its first week.[40][169] The fourth studio album, Tropicoqueta, was released on June 20, 2025, under Bichota Records LLC in exclusive license to Interscope Records. It debuted at number three on the Billboard 200.[51][2]| Title | Release date | Label | Selected peaks | Sales/Certifications |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Unstoppable | October 27, 2017 | Universal Music Latino | - | 330,000 units[166] |
| KG0516 | March 25, 2021 | Universal Music Latino | #1 Billboard Top Latin Albums[168] | 1,640,000 units[166] |
| MaÑana Será Bonito | February 24, 2023 | - | #1 Billboard 200[40] | 94,000 units (week 1)[169] |
| Tropicoqueta | June 20, 2025 | Bichota/Interscope | #3 Billboard 200[2] | - |
