Latin Music Sensation

Maluma | Biography

• By Stone Palmer
• Original : February 16, 2025

---

Who is Maluma?

Maluma, born Juan Luis Londoño Arias on January 28, 1994, in Medellín, Colombia, is a renowned Latin musician celebrated for his contributions to Latin pop, reggaeton, urban, and salsa music. Since his rise to stardom, he has established himself as a fixture on the Billboard charts, with his first successes tracing back to 2014. With signature hits like “Felices Los 4,” “Hawái” (featuring The Weeknd), and “Corazón” (with Nego do Borel), Maluma has not only conquered Latin airplay but also made impactful entries on the Billboard Hot 100. His powerful presence across social media, notably being the first male Latino artist to surpass 10 million Instagram followers in 2016, showcases his broad appeal and influence in the music industry.

Beyond his impressive music career, which includes six studio albums such as "F.A.M.E." and "Papi Juancho", Maluma has ventured into acting, lending his voice to the character Mariano in Disney's animated feature "Encanto" and starring alongside Jennifer Lopez in the romantic comedy "Marry Me". His collaborations with major artists, including Shakira and Madonna, further highlight his versatility and artistic reach. A cultural ambassador for Colombia, he aims to reshape narratives about his homeland through his art while continuing to innovate in both music and fashion, establishing himself as a style icon. Maluma is not just a singer; he embodies the modern global artist, merging musical talent with social influence.

Early Life and Education

Maluma, born Juan Luis Londoño Arias on January 28, 1994, in Medellín, Colombia, grew up in the humble neighborhood of Envigado. His family background was working-class; his father worked in logistics while his mother dedicated herself to homemaking. From a young age, Maluma showcased his love for performing, often singing mariachi songs for family and friends. His early passion for music was accompanied by a keen interest in soccer, where he played for a youth team of Atlético Nacional, one of Colombia’s most prestigious soccer clubs. However, despite balancing these pursuits, the family's financial struggles prompted him to work at a young age, selling sandwiches and sweets to help support them.

The turbulent phase of his parent’s divorce had a significant impact on Maluma, as he found himself stepping into a caretaker role for his mother and sister at just ten years old. This responsibility ignited a determination within him to strive for a better life for his family. By the time he turned 15, he faced a pivotal choice: continue down the path of soccer or embrace music as a career. Ultimately, he chose music, quitting the local soccer team to pursue his passion more seriously. With the support of his aunt, who funded his first studio session, he cultivated his musical talents, marking the beginning of his journey toward stardom.

Career Start in Music at Age 15

At the age of 15, Maluma decided to pivot from his aspirations of becoming a soccer star to a career in music. Recognizing his passion for performance, he approached his aunt for financial support to record his first song in a studio. This decision marked a significant turning point in his life, as he discovered that music was not merely a hobby, but his true calling. His early experiences in the studio fueled his ambition, allowing him to channel his feelings and experiences into his music, ultimately laying the groundwork for his impressive career.

Maluma's breakthrough began with local performances, where he sang at various events such as quinceañeras and school gatherings. This grassroots approach helped him cultivate a following and gain recognition in his community. His talent was soon evident as he embraced social media as a platform to share his music. By leveraging platforms like Twitter and Instagram, he began to build an audience, showcasing his dedication and hard work. This relentless hustle was instrumental in propelling him towards his goal of becoming a global star, despite initial reservations from his family regarding his unconventional path.

Success with Hit Albums and Collaborations

Maluma's rise to fame can be traced through his hit albums and notable collaborations that have solidified his place in the Latin music scene. His album "Pretty Boy, Dirty Boy," released in 2015, was a turning point, debuting at number one on Billboard’s Top Latin Albums and remaining in the charts for an impressive 178 weeks. This album showcased a blend of romantic ballads and urban reggaeton, introducing a dual persona that resonated with fans. The single “La Curiosidad” helped launch him further into the Latin pop realm, marking the beginning of his widespread acclaim.

In the years that followed, Maluma continued to release chart-topping albums, including "F.A.M.E." in 2018, which earned him a Latin Grammy for Best Contemporary Pop Vocal Album. Collaborations with fellow Latin icons such as Shakira on tracks like “Chantaje” and Madonna on “Medellín” significantly boosted his profile internationally. These partnerships not only highlighted his versatility as an artist but also showcased his ability to cross genre lines, tapping into global markets and reaching audiences worldwide. Maluma's dynamic sound and powerful presence in the industry have made him a beloved figure not just for his music but also for his ability to connect with fans through emotive lyrics and captivating performances.

Film Career: Encanto and Marry Me

Maluma made a significant leap into the film industry by voicing the character Mariano Guzmán in Disney's 2021 animated blockbuster, "Encanto". His involvement in this film was particularly meaningful for him, as it presented an opportunity to showcase Colombia's vibrant culture in a positive light. Maluma expressed pride in contributing to "Encanto", emphasizing his desire to shift the narrative from negative stereotypes associated with Colombia. As a result of the film's success, he experienced a sense of fulfillment, knowing that audiences across the globe could associate Colombia with beautiful storytelling rather than its troubled history.

In 2022, Maluma transitioned from voice acting to live-action film, starring alongside Hollywood icons Jennifer Lopez and Owen Wilson in the romantic-comedy "Marry Me". In this role, he played Lopez's fiancé, allowing him to showcase his charm and acting skills on screen. Lopez provided valuable guidance during filming, encouraging Maluma to channel his authentic self and approach the character with confidence. The synergy between them on set not only added depth to the film but also solidified Maluma's position as a diverse entertainer, proving that his talents extend beyond just music.

Personal Life: Dating and Relationships

Maluma's personal life often captivates fans and the media alike, particularly regarding his dating history. The singer has been linked to several high-profile relationships over the years, notably with actress and model Natalia Barulich, with whom he dated from 2018 to 2020. Their romance was highly publicized, with the couple frequently sharing their affection on social media and collaborating on the music video for his hit single "Hawái." Following their split, Maluma expressed how deeply affected he was by the breakup, stating that it taught him significant lessons about love and self-worth.

In addition to Barulich, Maluma has been rumored to date other celebrities, such as model and actress Hailey Baldwin and singer Beatrice Morgado. While the artist prefers to keep his relationships relatively private, he acknowledges the pressures of public scrutiny. Despite this, he remains open about his desire for a strong, loving partnership. As of now, Maluma has not confirmed any new significant relationship, stating that he is focused on his music and personal growth. His fans continue to support him as he navigates the complexities of life in the spotlight.

Net Worth and Earning: Salary from Music

Maluma, the Colombian Latin musician renowned for his contributions to Latin pop, reggaeton, and urban music, has seen a remarkable journey towards success, reflecting in his impressive net worth. As of 2023, his estimated net worth is approximately $12 million. Much of his income stems from music sales, streaming royalties, and high-profile collaborations with global artists, including Shakira and Madonna. His albums have consistently dominated the Billboard Latin charts, translating to significant earnings from both album sales and concert tours.

In addition to his music, Maluma has diversified his revenue streams through endorsements and brand collaborations, leveraging his influence as a social media sensation. With over 10 million followers on Instagram, he has attracted lucrative partnerships with fashion and lifestyle brands, further boosting his financial portfolio. His entrepreneurial ventures, including the launch of his fashion line, Royalty by Maluma, have also contributed to his growing wealth. Through a mix of musical talent and savvy business decisions, Maluma successfully navigates the competitive landscape of the entertainment industry.