J Balvin Bio, Wiki, Net Worth, Age, Height And Weight, Career And More (2024)

José Álvaro Osorio Balvín, professionally known as J Balvin, is a Colombian singer recognized as the “Prince of Reggaeton.” With over 35 million records sold globally, he stands as one of the top-selling Latin artists. Born in Medellín on May 7, 1985, Balvin embarked on his musical journey early on. At the age of 17, he relocated to the United States with the intention of learning English, residing in both Oklahoma and New York before returning to Medellín.

Balvin’s illustrious career is adorned with numerous accolades, including eleven Billboard Latin Music Awards, six Latin Grammy Awards, and five MTV Video Music Awards, among others. His contributions to the Latin music industry earned him recognition as the Contemporary Latin Songwriter of the Year at the 2017 BMI Latin Awards. Additionally, he received the first-ever Global Icon Award at the Lo Nuestro Awards for his significant role in popularizing Latin music worldwide.

Balvin’s impact transcends borders, as evidenced by his groundbreaking performances at renowned global events like Coachella, Tomorrowland, and Lollapalooza, making him the first Latino to headline such prestigious stages. The Guinness World Records has honored him as a “leader of a second-generation reggaeton revolution,” cementing his status as an influential figure in the music industry.

Early Life and Career

Born in Medellín on May 7, 1985, José Álvaro Osorio Balvín, known as J Balvin, hails from an upper middle-class background. Raised in a spacious home outside the city, his father, an economist and business owner, provided a comfortable upbringing. Balvin’s early musical influences were shaped by rock bands like Metallica and Nirvana, which he credits for inspiring his personal style, even sporting a Nirvana tattoo on his knee. However, his interest in reggaeton blossomed after discovering the music of Daddy Yankee, whom he admired for his stage presence and lyrical prowess.

Despite his privileged upbringing, Balvin’s family faced financial setbacks when his father’s business went bankrupt, leading to a loss of their home and relocation to a less affluent neighborhood. This experience exposed Balvin to different social strata, allowing him to navigate between worlds comfortably. At 16, he embarked on an English-exchange program in Oklahoma, followed by a stint in New York City, where he immersed himself in the music scene and drew inspiration from rap moguls like 50 Cent and P. Diddy.

Balvin’s journey took him through various odd jobs in New York, Miami, and Medellín, including illegal employment as a roofer and house painter in the United States. Despite the challenges, he remained determined to pursue his passion for music. Returning to Colombia, he began performing at local clubs and honing his craft while attending EAFIT University in Medellín, where he studied international business. It was during this time that he adopted the stage name J Balvin “El Negocio,” signifying his serious commitment to his musical endeavors.

The pivotal moment in Balvin’s career came when he crossed paths with DJ and business partner David Rivera Mazo during a freestyle battle in Medellín. Together, they ventured into producing and promoting their music independently, laying the groundwork for Balvin’s ascent in the music industry. His early releases garnered attention, leading to a deal with EMI Colombia in 2009 and the subsequent release of singles like “Ella Me Cautivó.” Balvin’s international breakthrough came with hits like “Yo Te Lo Dije,” propelling him to sign with Universal subsidiary Capitol Latin in 2013 and solidifying his status as a rising star in the reggaeton scene.

Personal life

Balvin has been vocal about the Venezuelan economic crisis and the plight of Venezuelans facing forced deportation at the Colombian border, condemning the situation as “deplorable.” In response, he launched the social media campaign #LatinosSomosFamilia (We Latinos are Family), urging fans to sign a petition in support of the displaced victims. This initiative garnered support from fellow Latin artists, including Colombian singer Maluma. Balvin’s activism gained further attention when he canceled his performance at Miss USA 2015 in protest of Donald Trump’s remarks.

A supporter of LGBT rights, Balvin emphasized the importance of love and friendship, stating that many of his closest friends are gay. To express solidarity with the LGBTQ+ community, he dyed his hair in rainbow colors for Pride 2019.

In August 2016, Balvin experienced a harrowing incident when the private plane he was on crash-landed while departing from the Bahamas. Despite the terrifying ordeal, which he described as a “miracle,” no injuries were reported.

Struggling with anxiety, Balvin turned to meditation as a coping mechanism, crediting it with saving his life and restoring his happiness. He has also been open about his affinity for tattoos, getting his first one at the age of twelve. In tribute to his mother, who battles acute intermittent porphyria, a rare genetic condition, Balvin has the word “Familia” tattooed on his chest.

Unlike many of his peers who relocate to the United States upon achieving fame, Balvin chooses to remain rooted in his hometown of Medellín, Colombia, where he feels a strong connection to his community and heritage. While he maintains a residence in New York, he primarily resides in Medellín.

In 2020, Balvin revealed that he had contracted COVID-19 but has since recovered. Since 2018, he has been in a relationship with Argentine model Valentina Ferrer, with whom he welcomed their first child, a son, in New York City on June 27, 2021.

How Old is J Balvin?

At 37 years old, J Balvin, born on May 7, 1985, in Medellín, Colombia, has risen to prominence as a global sensation renowned for his distinctive style and captivating rhythms. With his magnetic charisma and exceptional skill, he has endeared himself to millions across the globe. From topping the charts with his infectious tunes to delivering electrifying performances, J Balvin has firmly established himself as a formidable presence in the music landscape.

Height and Weight

He stands at a height of 5 feet 7 inches and weighs 73 kilograms, which is equivalent to 160 pounds.

Net Worth

Colombian-born reggaeton artist J Balvin has a net worth of $30 million. J Balvin is one of the best-selling Latin artists, having sold over 35 million records worldwide. J Balvin presently has more than 34 million YouTube subscribers, more than 51 million Instagram followers, and more than 23 billion views on the platform.

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