Despecho is a powerful Spanish word that doesn't have a single, perfect English equivalent. It describes a complex mix of heartbreak, spite, bitterness, and resentment felt after a breakup or betrayal.
In the song, Maluma is responding to rumors that he's suffering from despecho: "Ahora resulta que vivo el despecho" (Now it turns out I'm living in spite/heartbreak). This single word perfectly captures the dramatic, emotional core of many Latin pop and reggaeton songs, making it an essential term for any fan of the genre.
Colombian star Maluma teams up with Mexican singer Carin León for "Según Quién", and the whole track is a sharp, funny clapback against small-town gossip and an ex with an overinflated ego. The narrator is exhausted by the constant rumor mill, singing "Estoy cansado de este lleva y trae" [I am tired of this back-and-forth gossip]. Apparently, word on the street is that he is completely heartbroken, getting drunk in random bars, and screaming his ex's name. His answer? A mocking, direct question: "¿Según quién?" [According to whom?]. He tells her straight up: "Dile al que te está informando / Que te está malinformando / Que te informe bien" [Tell whoever is informing you that they are misinforming you, to get their facts straight].
Beyond just denying the rumors, the lyrics unleash some hilarious and blunt insults. Maluma snaps that while his ex only cared about his credit card ("Tú estabas por la de crédito" [You were only there for the credit card]), his new partner is genuine. He even mocks the gossip by saying he bought toilet paper for all the nonsense she talks ("Pa' esa mierda que tú hablas / Te compré papel higiénico"). He calls himself a fool for giving his all when she cheated on him, using the classic Spanish idiom for infidelity: "tú me pusiste los del toro" [you put the bull's horns on me, meaning 'you cheated on me']. With snappy lines like "Ni que fueras monedita de oro" [It's not like you're a gold coin, meaning 'you aren't loved by everyone'], this track makes it crystal clear that he has moved on while chilling in Mexico.
Maluma (born Juan Luis Londoño Arias on January 28, 1994, in Medellín, Colombia) is a celebrated singer, rapper, songwriter, and actor known for his vibrant contributions to urbano, reggaeton, and Latin pop music. Since beginning his career at just sixteen, Maluma has released multiple successful albums including Magia (2012), Pretty Boy, Dirty Boy (2015), F.A.M.E. (2018), and 11:11 (2019), captivating audiences worldwide with his dynamic sound and charismatic presence.
With over 18 million records sold, Maluma has scored numerous hits like "Felices los 4," "Borró Cassette," and "Corazón," and has collaborated with global stars such as Shakira, Madonna, and The Weeknd. His music blends infectious beats with heartfelt lyrics, earning him multiple awards including a Latin Grammy and an MTV Video Music Award. Known for his smooth vocals and genre-crossing style, Maluma remains a leading figure in Latin music and continues to influence the global music scene.