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Latin rhythms

Karol G teaches Jimmy Fallon how to be a "Tropicoqueta"

A cultural journey told through rhythm and soul.


Senior Writer
JUNE 27, 2025 3:37 PM EDT

Karol G is back, and she's hotter than ever. Fresh off the global success of "Mañana Será Bonito," her record-smashing album that cemented her status as a powerhouse in Latin music, the Colombian superstar is taking us on a vibrant new ride with "Tropicoqueta."

 This latest album is a love letter to Latin rhythms, a fearless experiment in sound, and a personal diary wrapped in merengue beats, vallenato verses, and Brazilian funk heat. And it's too hot to handle for some… ask Jimmy Fallon.

Karol G turned heads in a gray-and-black animal print dress© NBC
Karol G turned heads in a gray-and-black animal print dress

A Dream Album Years in the Making

Karol G has never been shy about dreaming big, and "Tropicoqueta" is her most ambitious creation yet. She's called it the "album of her dreams" — a project that began as a quiet wish in late 2023 and evolved into a blazing 2025 reality.

In her own words, the track list is the "new story" of her life. Every song tells a different chapter, packed with intense emotions, surprise turns, and unforgettable characters. It's a telenovela with bass drops.

Whether you're dancing to the electric groove of "Papasito" or swaying to the slower, sensual pulses of a bachata ballad, you're feeling Karol's evolution. This isn't just a collection of hits; it's a cultural journey told through rhythm and soul.

© NBC
Karol G turned heads in a gray-and-black animal print dress

A Sonic Map of Latin America

"Tropicoqueta" is rooted in reggaeton, her foundation and comfort zone, but Karol G uses it as a launchpad to explore a stunning range of Latin genres. You'll hear vallenato, cumbia, merengue, bachata, and even the infectious bounce of Brazilian funk, all blended with her signature style.

But this isn't just genre-hopping. Karol G goes deeper than ever into her Colombian roots, using live instrumentation to honor her heritage and elevate her sound. Horn sections, accordions, congas, and strings weave in and out of tracks like threads in a colorful tapestry.

© @karolg

It's bold. It's wild. It's a celebration of Latin identity.

The Jimmy Fallon Moment

Karol G recently brought her energy to "The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon," where she lit up the stage with a fiery live performance of "Papasito." This merengue-infused track tells the story of a Latina trying to win an American man's heart,  and yes, Fallon ended up being part of the story, too.

© Todd Owyoung/NBC via Getty Image
Singer Karol G during an interview with host Jimmy Fallon on Thursday, June 26, 2025 -- (Photo by: Todd Owyoung/NBC via Getty Images)

During the interview, Karol introduced Jimmy to "La Hora Loca," a Latin party tradition in which everyone hits the dance floor to follow the DJ's instructions. She offered to teach him some moves live on air.

"Put your right hand in front, your left hand on your belly button… and now shake your hips slowly," she instructed.

© NBC

Let's say Jimmy gave it his best shot, but his hips were not ready for the flavor. The result was a hilarious (and slightly painful-looking) attempt to show that not all talents transfer to the dance floor.

"Tropicoqueta"  hits all the right notes. It's about honoring where you come from while daring to explore new places. Karol G has proven, once again, why she's more than a reggaeton queen; she's a genre-blending, story-spinning, hip-shaking force of nature. 

© Todd Owyoung/NBC via Getty Image
Musical guest Karol G performs on Thursday, June 26, 2025 -- (Photo by: Todd Owyoung/NBC via Getty Images)

So press play, turn it up, and get ready to dance, cry, laugh, and break a hip or two. 

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