Venesti and Nicky Jam Unite for “Babylon,” Blending Afro-Pop and Urbano Across Generations
Colombian rising star Venesti and reggaeton veteran Nicky Jam have joined forces for the first time on “Babylon,” an Afro-pop and urban fusion released under AP Global Music.
The collaboration represents more than a co-sign. It bridges two eras of Latin music pairing Nicky Jam’s two-decade dominance in reggaeton with Venesti’s emergence as one of the defining voices of Spanish-language Afro-pop.
An Anthem of Heartbreak With Rhythmic Lift
While “Babylon” lyrically explores heartbreak and emotional closure, its production leans into rhythmic elevation rather than melancholy. The result is a track that captures the duality of post-breakup reality pain in the lyrics, motion in the beat.
Produced by Jorge Milliano, Tomy B, and J-Trons, and written by Gael, Kenneth Vargas, and Derek alongside the artists, “Babylon” layers Afro-inspired percussion with urbano textures. The official music video, directed by Mr. Walls, reinforces the song’s emotional tension through a polished, contemporary visual aesthetic.
“Collaborating with Nicky Jam is an honor and a learning experience,” Venesti shared. “‘Babylon’ reflects a very real part of relationships, but at the same time has a rhythm that lifts you up and helps you move forward.”
Nicky Jam added, “Venesti brings a fresh sound, and I think this track shows what happens when you combine different experiences and styles.”
A Strategic Generational Crossover
For Venesti often dubbed the “King of Afro-pop” the single strengthens his international positioning following a run of releases that have defined his rhythmic identity within the Latin market. Afro-pop in Spanish continues to gain traction globally, fueled by Caribbean and African diasporic influences blending into mainstream urbano.
For Nicky Jam, “Babylon” signals continued versatility. While his catalog is rooted in classic reggaeton, recent years have seen him experiment with trap, melodic pop, and now Afro-fusion textures. The collaboration reflects a veteran artist maintaining cultural relevance by engaging emerging movements rather than competing with them.
Afro-Pop’s Expanding Role in Latin Music
“Babylon” arrives at a moment when Afro-Latin rhythms are increasingly central to Latin streaming culture. The genre’s evolution intersecting with reggaeton, dancehall, and melodic pop has created space for cross-generational records like this one.
Venesti’s rise mirrors a broader industry shift: younger artists are building global fanbases with Afro-infused sounds while veterans are strategically entering the space to stay sonically aligned with the next wave.
If the reception matches the ambition, “Babylon” could become a defining moment for Venesti’s next phase and another proof point in Nicky Jam’s long-standing adaptability.
Discover the latest Latin collaborations and genre shifts at LaMezcla.com.
Stream “Babylon” and the best in Afro-pop and urbano on the LaMezcla Music App curated playlists, DJ mixes, and exclusive discoveries in one place.
Follow LaMezcla across platforms for real-time Latin music news and culture updates shaping 2026.