In the heart of Madrid, performed an exclusive, intimate concert in collaboration with . As part of the international Jameson Connects campaign, fans were given an opportunity to win free tickets to the event through social media giveaways and challenges around the capital. Around 700 people came together at the iconic and stunning Salón de baile, Circulo de Bellas Artes, to celebrate Latin music and Irish whiskey.
From a 360 stage, the Prince of Reggaeton delivered a high-energy, 90 minute set full of smash hits starting with ‘Mi Gente’ and ‘Con Altura’ which had the crowd screaming and jumping. Global bangers ‘La Canción’, ‘I Like It’ and ‘Un Día’ were real crowd pleasers with fans dancing along under the green lights. The energy shifted gears when the fast-paced, house-infused rhythms of ‘In Da Getto’ hit the speakers. Backed by a sudden burst from smoke cannons and a synchronised light show, the track completely energised the room, turning the hall into a club.
The night then ended with the high-octane and feet-mobilising ‘Ritmo’. With spinning on the decks and fans glowing with neon lightning bolts and Balvin’s signature smiley faces, the night was truly unforgettable.
As a global ambassador of renowned Irish Whiskey brand Jameson, attendees were treated to the bespoke servings such as the innovative and delicious Jameson Pickle Highball. While the chaotic combination of Jameson, lime, ginger beer, and pickle juice sounds baffling on paper, this boldly unconventional cocktail was an unexpected masterpiece that stole the show. Another standout drink was the J&J’s Cocktail Balvin which was a combination of Jameson whiskey, pineapple juice, lemonade, and a pineapple garnish.
Clash caught up with J Balvin ahead of the show to discuss the importance of as a cultural bridge to offer fans a taste of Irish whiskey whilst watching some of the world’s most iconic artists perform to an intimate crowd.
Music has always brought people together, and that idea is at the heart of Jameson Connects too. When you’re on stage, what creates a real sense of connection with the crowd?
J Balvin: For me, the best shows are the ones that give me the chance to feel close to the audience, where we feed off of each other. I bring my energy, the fans bring theirs, and for that time we’re all part of the same thing. Bringing people together has always been at the heart of what I do, and it’s something Jameson believes in too. Doing Jameson Connects creates the space for people to share music and a moment they’ll remember together.
You’ve built a global audience while staying closely connected to Colombia. What excites you about bringing that energy to Madrid for a Jameson Connects experience?
J Balvin: My roots in Colombia are part of everything I do, wherever I go. Madrid has always given me a lot of love, so bringing that energy here feels natural. You don’t have to come from the same place to feel the same love for music. With Jameson Connects, we get to bring everyone together, have fun and share that energy up close. That’s going to be special.
You’ve performed on some of the biggest stages in the world. What becomes possible in a more intimate show like this one?
J Balvin: An intimate show gives me a chance to be creative in a different way. I still want people to feel that same energy and leave saying ‘wow.’ The challenge is taking what we do on a big stage and making it work when everyone is right there with you. You think differently about the production, the music, every detail.
You helped create a special Jameson J Pickle highball serve for Madrid. What do you like about it, and how does it fit the energy of the night?
J Balvin: I like that it’s fresh, a little spicy, something different. It has its own vibe. We wanted something fun for Madrid that people could try while enjoying the music and hanging out together.
The strongest collaborations often begin with a shared point of view. What makes a creative partnership feel genuine to you?
J Balvin: For me, it starts with a real connection. I like working with people I respect and share values with, where we can both be ourselves and bring our own ideas. That’s what felt natural with Jameson: bringing our worlds together and creating something cool.
After everything you’ve achieved, what kinds of experiences or creative connections do you want to explore next?
J Balvin: There’s still so much I want to do. There are always new sounds, new people to work with, and new places that I haven’t performed yet. I still have that same hunger from when I started, so If something feels good and gets me excited, I want to try it!