Maluma Gets Emotional Reflecting on 15-Year Career at Billboard Latin Music Week

Colombian singer-songwriter Maluma broke down in tears on October 21, 2026, while listening to his 2020 hit Hawái and reflecting on his 15-year career during Billboard Latin Music Week, Billboard reported. Headlining the Iconic Songwriter Q&A presented by Sony Music Publishing, the Medellín-born star shared stories behind his biggest tracks and received a plaque celebrating over 30 songs that reached number one on various Billboard charts.

I cry out of gratitude, I swear, Maluma said when the opening notes of Hawái played, according to Billboard. The track topped the Hot Latin Songs chart for nine weeks and hit number 12 on the Billboard Hot 100 via its remix with The Weeknd. When I hear songs like that, so many memories come to mind; that’s why I got emotional. It’s that beautiful gratitude deep in my heart, he told Billboard Co-Chief Content Officer Leila Cobo.

Reflecting on Career Milestones and Collaborations

During the conversation, Maluma discussed several tracks that defined his rise in Latin music, including his recent single with Shakira titled Agua, released on September 17. He explained that the sensual merengue had existed for some time before producer Sky Rompiendo transformed its rhythm, prompting the invitation to Shakira. The pair previously collaborated on Chantaje, Trap, and Clandestino, and shared a Billboard cover in 2018.

Personally, I love working with Shakira. It’s a big opportunity for growth… People already know we have incredible chemistry in the studio and on stage. She’s one of those artists who has shaped her career through discipline and focus. I say this because she’s someone who’s reached where she is because of her character.

Billboard

The discussion also touched on his January duet with Kany García titled 1 + 1. Maluma stated that the track reflects his current desire to return to simplicity and his Colombian roots, emphasizing that he would not be who he is without Medellín.

Exploring Future Regional Music Aspirations

Expanding on his cross-cultural projects, the artist addressed his 2023 collaboration with Mexican singer Carín León on Según Quién, calling it a bridge between Colombia and Mexico. He noted that he learned Mexican culture through his family and performed some of his best concerts in the country. I would love to experiment much more with regional music, he said, adding that it remains a path he has yet to fully explore.

The event concluded with Jorge Mejía, president and CEO of Sony Music Publishing Latin America and U.S. Latin, presenting the artist with a commemorative plaque for his numerous chart-topping achievements. Both Billboard and PressBee documented the milestone appearance as part of the week’s industry panels.