'I still have a lot to learn': Karol G responds to criticism over '+57' lyrics

Karol G responded in detail Monday, November 11, to criticism of her new song "+57" — which features J Balvin, Feid, Maluma, and other Colombian performers — for lyrics that some have interpreted as sexualizing youngsters.

Karol G.

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Her post comes four days after the release of the reggaetón tune featuring Colombia's top hitmakers, including Ryan Castro, Blessd, and newcomer DFZM. Produced by Ovy on Drums – Karol's longtime producer — and co-written by Keityn, the song was dubbed a new Colombian anthem even before it was released.

However, the song's lyrics were criticized online quickly after its release on Thursday, November 7, with some individuals pointing out that it oversexualizes children. (In one sentence, they discuss a lady who has been a "mamacita," or "hot mama," since the age of 14.) Rolling Stone En Español published a column titled "The Disaster of +'57′," and the Instituto Colombiano de Bienestar Familiar (ICBF) issued a statement stating that the song "reinforces the sexualization of children in our country" and does not contribute to our fight against commercial sexual exploitation of children and adolescents.

Karol wrote in her Instagram Stories that artists are subjected to public opinion, and that the song's words were taken out of context. She began her message by expressing her gratitude to her fans and those who "know my project, the intentions of my work, and the causes close to my heart, those that move me, that I am passionate about, and for which I work every day with love and responsibility," she added. "I care about my people, and every day I search for ways to get engaged in programs where I can spread my blessings and positively touch the lives of many others.

"As artists, we are subject to public opinion as well as the individual interpretations of those who support and oppose our work. I'm quite frustrated by the misinformation that has been spread, regarding the bogus tweets that I allegedly created and deleted from Twitter, an account that I haven't used in over six months. Unfortunately, the words of a song intended to commemorate the unity of artists and highlight my people were taken out of context. None of the things spoken in the song are in the direction they have been given, nor are they expressed from that perspective, but I listen, accept responsibility, and recognize that I still have much to learn. I am very touched, and I apologize from the bottom of my heart," she said. It's worth noting that Karol doesn't sing the phrase about the "14 year old," but rather some of the males on the track, and she's the one apologizing.

Feid, Balvin, and Ovy on the Drums have all shared Karol's message in support. "Queen, we are with you," Balvin wrote. "You have given us so many wins that this doesn't take away from your greatness, we're here unconditionally."

Karol closed her post by thanking her followers for "their unconditional love and support." She said: "I value it very much, and the artists who participated with me in the song, I keep in my heart the beautiful energy with which we worked that day."