Who is Maluma, Twitter and YouTube sensation, J-Lo’s co-star and sexy Calvin Klein model who went viral?

The hottest new internet sensation once had to sell sandwiches at school for money. Recently, Maluma (née Juan Luis Londoño Arias) went viral thanks to the Colombian heartthrob’s steamy Calvin Klein campaign where he became the subject of hilarious Twitter posts. Despite the #thirsttrap advert showcasing his impeccable genes, Maluma also packed major skills such as his tenor voice, killer dance moves and composing catchy reggaeton beats. What else is there to know about this Latin music star?

He started singing at the age of 16

At the age of 26, Maluma might appear in the early stage of his music career, but if you have been working since the age of 16, a decade of accomplishment is no small victory. Born in Medellín, Colombia, Maluma began performing in high school and released his first album, “Magia”, in 2010. Currently, the young artist has released four albums, the last one being “11:11” which went double platinum.

He will act opposite Jennifer Lopez

Maluma has appeared as a judge in various Spanish music competitions and had multiple acting offers (he turned down a television show from Netflix!) before signing his first film deal. In 2020, the singer will star opposite Jennifer Lopez in a romcom, Marry Me, based on the eponymous graphic novel that also includes 10 songs performed by the duo lead stars.

He has worked with Madonna, Shakira and Ricky Martin

His fourth album “11:11” skyrocketed to No. 1 on the Billboard Top Latin Albums chart cementing Maluma’s popularity across South America. He went on to become a global sensation following his duet with Shakira in 2016’s pop-reggaeton Chantaje and last year’s Medellín with pop diva Madonna that topped the Billboard’s Dance Club Songs in the US. Maluma has also duetted with Ricky Martin twice in Vente Pa’ Ca and No Se Me Quita.