J Balvin ignites new era with surprise EP

Mixteip reasserts the global superstar’s genre-defining power and unmatched cultural reach

Global icon J Balvin returns with the release of Mixteip – a surprise ten-track project that solidifies his standing as one of the most visionary artists of this generation. From his signature reggaeton essence to genre-expanding risks, Mixteip is both a return to roots and a leap forward: a body of work that honors the legacy of Latin music while fearlessly expanding its borders. Mixteip is now available on all digital platforms.

At the center of Mixteip is its explosive focus track, “Zun Zun,” featuring longtime collaborators and Latin hitmakers Justin Quiles and Lenny Tavarez. Driven by a hard-hitting reggaeton rhythm, the three artists bounce effortlessly between verses, building into a blistering finale that reimagines the essence of classic reggaeton. The official music video for “Zun Zun” premiered on MTV Live, MTVU, MTV Flow Latino, and lit up the Paramount Times Square billboards.

Shot through the lens of a 1993 camera, the official “Zun Zun” clip brings classic reggaeton vibes to life with nostalgic flair. Set in a throwback house-party-style club, the artists channel the golden era of the genre, complete with oversized fits, gleaming chains, and raw energy. With smooth transitions and careful detail, “Zun Zun” becomes a visual love letter to ‘90s reggaeton at its most unforgettable.

Another standout arrives with “Misterio,” an innovative genre shapeshifter. The track begins in reggaeton territory before seamlessly transitioning into a hypnotic salsa number, with none other than salsa legend Gilberto Santa Rosa providing the emotional pivot. “Hermano, el amor no es siempre lo que parece. A veces, hay que vivir, y a veces hay que sufrir” (Brother, love isn’t always what it seems. Sometimes you need to live, and sometimes, you need to suffer) he narrates, guiding listeners into a new rhythmic dimension that invites both movement and reflection.

J Balvin’s experimental instincts are on full display across the project. On “Bruz Wein,” he dips into the shadows, delivering an eerie and sensual trap-R&B blend made for late-night drives, with a smooth, mysterious vocal performance layered with restraint. Meanwhile, “Uuu” finds Balvin trading bars with UK heavyweight Stormzy over a menacing drill beat, uniting two cultural powerhouses.

“PQBL” reveals a more vulnerable side, with Balvin weaving romantic verses over a warm reggaeton pattern. Singing “Pensaba que te había olvidado, pero pusieron la canción” (I thought I had forgotten about you, but then they played the song), the artist nods knowingly to his global hit “La Canción,” further proof of J Balvin’s intentional craftsmanship and emotional continuity across his body of work.

From the hypnotic, synth-laced “No Te Olvido” to the heart-pounding trap of “St Tropez,” J Balvin moves with purpose, swagger, and unmistakable authority. And with “¿Dónde Está Jose?” closing out the project, Mixteip leaves no doubt: this is not just a drop. It’s a statement.

The project also features previously released fan favorites “KLK” with merengue legend Omega and “Rio,” adding further texture to an already rich musical mosaic.

Mixteip arrives on the heels of J Balvin’s landmark performance at the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup Halftime Show, cementing his place on the world’s biggest stages. This August, he will continue his global festival run with anticipated appearances at Mexico’s Baja Beach Fest and Japan’s Summer Sonic Festival, bringing Mixteip to the world stage with the energy and ambition that define him.

1. Bruz Wein
2. Zun Zun featuring Lenny Tavarez, Justin Quiles
3. Uuu
4. PQBL
5. No Te Olvido
6. Misterio featuring Gilberto Santa Rosa
7. St Tropez
8. KLK featuring Omega
9. Rio
10. ¿Dónde Está Jose?

Buddy Iahn
Buddy Iahn