Maluma is interested in taking his connection with Mexican music further, adding another chapter to the conversation about who gets to perform—and receive recognition in—the genre.

During Billboard Latin Music Week in Miami in October, the Colombian superstar discussed experimenting more with regional Mexican music. He even floated the possibility of a full project, although he stopped short of announcing an album or release date.

His comments arrive as fellow Colombian artist Karol G has been defending her own relationship with Mexican music following criticism about cultural appropriation.

Maluma Already Has a Connection to the Genre

For Maluma, this would build on collaborations he has already released.

He teamed up with Grupo Firme for “Cada Quien” in 2021, followed by “Según Quién” with Carín León in 2023. Both recordings brought him together with established Mexican artists, giving fans a taste of how his voice fits into different musical settings.

At the Billboard conversation, Maluma also described his affection for Mexican culture as something rooted in childhood, through his parents and grandparents. His interest, he explained, goes beyond his recent collaborations.

Why Karol G Is Part of the Conversation

Karol G’s “Ese Hombre Es Malo” received a nomination in the regional song category at the 2026 Latin Grammys. The official nomination recognizes songwriters Edgar Barrera, Andres Jael Correa Rios and Karol G.

The recognition prompted criticism from some social media users who questioned a Colombian artist competing in a category closely associated with Mexico. Others argued that performers dedicated to the genre deserved more attention. Those reactions represent a segment of online opinion, rather than a shared position across Mexican audiences.

In an October interview with The New York Times, covered by USA TODAY, Karol G explained that she grew up listening to Mexican music and even had mariachi at her quinceañera. She also described travelling to Mexico to work with musicians on “Ese Hombre Es Malo,” emphasizing respect, preparation and a longstanding love of the culture.

Appreciation, Appropriation and Who Gets Recognized

The discussion raises questions beyond an artist’s birthplace. How do performers acknowledge a tradition’s roots? Who contributes to the music? And how is recognition shared with the artists and communities who sustain it?

There is room to celebrate musical exchange while taking those questions seriously. Working across cultures can introduce listeners to new sounds, but the people behind those sounds deserve credit and visibility.

For now, Maluma has opened the door to more Mexican music. What he creates—and whom he creates it with—will give listeners something more concrete to discuss.

Would you welcome a full regional Mexican project from Maluma?