J Balvin’s sixth album, Jose, was released last month, but its promotion was not without controversy. The singer released a video for “Perra” with Dominican rapper Tokischa earlier this month, and he was instantly chastised for the way the video depicted Black women. Balvin is shown in the video walking Black ladies around on leashes while wearing dog ears. One of its detractors was the singer’s own mother, who spoke about it with Colombian news network Cosmovisión. “When I first learned about “Perra,” I phoned him… “Where is the Josésito that I am familiar with?” she inquired. “That music isn’t for you… I have no idea what to say. I couldn’t find José anywhere.”
J Balvin apologized in his Instagram story a few weeks after the situation erupted. “I want to apologize to everyone who was upset, particularly the Black community,” he stated. “I’m not like that. Tolerance, love, and inclusivity are important to me. I also want to promote young artists, such as Tokischa, a woman who inspires women while also supporting her people and community.”
Balvin added, “As a form of respect, I removed the video eight days ago. But because the criticism continued, I’m here making a statement.” He concluded with an apology to his mother. “Mom, I’m sorry too,” he said. “Life gets better each day. Thank you for listening to me.”
