Benú Releases “MAKIA,” Showcasing His Signature Afro-Latin and Contemporary R&B Sound

Written on 07/16/2026
LaMezcla Staff

Colombian artist, producer, and songwriter Benú continues carving out his own lane with the release of “MAKIA,” a genre-blending single that draws from Afro-descendant musical traditions while embracing the textures of contemporary R&B. Available now across all major streaming platforms, the release represents another step in the artist’s mission to create emotionally driven music that favors authenticity over commercial formulas.

Rather than relying on conventional song structures, “MAKIA” unfolds as an immersive listening experience. Ethereal production, organic percussion, and restrained yet expressive vocals create a soundscape centered on vulnerability, desire, and introspection. The record invites listeners into an intimate emotional space where silence often speaks louder than words.

Written and produced by Luis Hernando Mendoza, professionally known as Benú, the single was co-produced alongside Diego Contento. Together, the pair crafted a production that balances Afro-inspired rhythmic elements with modern R&B sensibilities, resulting in a record that feels equally rooted in Colombian musical heritage and connected to today’s global alternative music movement.

The release arrives at a time when Colombian music continues to diversify beyond the country’s internationally recognized reggaetón and urbano exports. A growing wave of artists is embracing Afro-Colombian traditions, soul, electronic textures, and experimental R&B to tell more personal stories, and Benú’s latest release fits squarely within that evolution. Rather than chasing prevailing trends, “MAKIA” focuses on emotional storytelling, allowing its production choices to serve the narrative instead of overpowering it.

That artistic direction also reflects a broader shift happening throughout Latin music. As audiences become increasingly receptive to genre-fluid projects, emerging artists are finding greater freedom to blend cultural influences without feeling constrained by traditional industry categories. Benú’s approach positions him within this new generation of creators who prioritize identity and artistic expression over fitting neatly into a single musical label.

From a career perspective, “MAKIA” feels less like an isolated single and more like a statement of intent. By writing, producing, and shaping much of the creative vision himself, Benú establishes a clear artistic identity early in his development. That level of creative control could become one of his defining strengths as independent-minded artists continue gaining traction across Latin music’s evolving landscape.

While Benú remains an emerging name, his willingness to merge Afro-descendant influences with sophisticated contemporary production demonstrates an ambition that extends beyond local audiences. The international appetite for alternative Latin sounds continues to grow, creating opportunities for artists capable of delivering music with both cultural authenticity and global appeal.

As Benú continues building his catalog, “MAKIA” serves as an important milestone—one that introduces listeners to an artist committed to emotional honesty, refined production, and a distinctive Afro-Latin musical identity. Whether this single becomes the foundation for a larger project or signals the beginning of a new creative era, it offers a compelling glimpse into the direction of one of Colombia’s emerging independent voices.

For more coverage of emerging Latin artists, new music releases, and the evolving sounds shaping the culture, continue following LaMezcla.com and discover more music through the LaMezcla Music App.