Maluma clarified the reason for his change of look: 'It doesn't always have to do with my career'
The Colombian artist, who appeared unrecognizable without his emblematic beard, confessed that his new image is not an artistic strategy
Maluma once again demonstrated that he is the chameleon of the urban genre. During the recent Premio Lo Nuestro 2026 gala, the performer of “Hawai” captured everyone's attention not only for his talent, but also for a drastic image change that left his fans and the international press in shock: the singer completely shaved off his iconic beard. Since his emergence in the music scene, his beard and facial hair have been hallmarks of “Papi Juancho's” visual identity. However, on the red carpet in Miami, the artist sported a completely clean-shaven face, complemented by an “open book” hairstyle and a retro-style suit in earth tones. Given the stir this caused, the Colombian decided to break his silence and explain what motivated him to make this transformation. In an interview with Billboard during the event, Maluma clarified that his aesthetic changes go far beyond what the industry dictates. "It's funny because people think I cut my beard or get different hairstyles because they fit my career; however, they also have a connection to how I feel on a personal level," the singer confessed, emphasizing that his appearance is a barometer of his emotional state and personal growth. Even the artist himself admitted that the change was shocking: “This morning when I looked in the mirror, I didn't recognize myself,” he joked to reporters. This new look coincides with a period of fulfillment for Maluma, who also took advantage of the evening to dedicate tender words to his daughter, Paris, whom he described as “the most beautiful thing” in his life. Professionally, the night was a resounding success, with him taking home the Collaboration of the Year award alongside Carin. Lion. With this new, clean-shaven look, Maluma inaugurates an era in which maturity and authenticity seems to be his main driving forces, reaffirming that, for him, image is the perfect tool to communicate his inner world.

