J Balvin

José Álvaro Osorio Balvin, widely known as J Balvin, is a Colombian artist born on May 7, 1985, in Medellín to parents José Álvaro Osorio and Alba Mery Balvin. Beginning his musical journey in the early 2000s, J Balvin has become a prominent figure in the reggaeton genre.

The artist gained international acclaim with hits such as "Ay Vamos," "Ginza," and "Mi Gente." His albums, including "Energia" (2016), "Vibras" (2018), and "Colores" (2020), not only showcase his creativity as a musician but have also contributed to his multifaceted success. J Balvin, a multi-time Latin Grammy winner, has extended his influence beyond music, establishing himself as a notable fashion icon.

J Balvin's childhood was spent in the affluent neighborhood of Belén-Malibú in Medellín, alongside his younger sister, Carolina. Influenced by American rock bands like Nirvana and Metallica, he started playing the guitar in a rock group at the age of 11. However, financial setbacks led to the family moving to a less privileged district when J Balvin was a teenager. To make ends meet, he engaged in entrepreneurial endeavors, selling items like chewing gum and clothes at school.

At 18, J Balvin embarked on an English-language exchange program that took him to a small town in Oklahoma. Faced with isolation and a challenging situation, he eventually escaped and sought refuge with an aunt in Staten Island, New York. During this period, he immersed himself in the hip-hop culture of the streets and earned a living by walking dogs.

Upon returning to Medellín, J Balvin initially pursued college classes in international business and communication but ultimately dropped out, realizing his true passion lay in making music. His journey reflects not only his musical evolution but also the resilience and determination that have shaped his career.