During a conversation on the podcast MoluscoTV, Nicky Jam opened up about his lack of a genuine friendship with Enrique Iglesias, despite their collaboration on one of Latin reggaeton's biggest hits, "El Perdón" (2015).
The Puerto Rican singer was straightforward when discussing his relationship with the Spanish artist: "He was never my friend. Not once. He was a really complicated guy. Maybe he was just a lone wolf."
The most striking anecdote he shared took place during the filming of the English version of their song, titled "Forgiveness."
Nicky Jam gifted Iglesias a watch during that shoot, but the Spaniard declined it outright: "No, no, no. Thanks, thanks. I don't want the watch."
The rejection left the reggaeton star stunned: "I stood there with the watch for about half an hour. Couldn't believe what he was turning down."
Despite this incident, Nicky Jam clarified he harbors no ill will: "We don’t have a friendship, and I don’t hold anything against him. He was very private, living in his own world. I respect that."
He even acknowledged Iglesias' role in his career: "He played a crucial part in my career, and it was beneficial for him too, as he needed another hit after 'Bailando.' It was a fantastic exchange for both."
He concluded with professional praise: "He's truly a great artist with a keen ear for hits. We may not be friends, but I have respect for him wherever he is. God bless you, Enrique Iglesias."
These remarks came as Nicky Jam made a triumphant return to Puerto Rico for his "El Regreso a Casa" concert at the Coliseo de Puerto Rico, set for this Saturday.
The first show sold out in under an hour, prompting a second date at El Choli, proving that the Puerto Rican public's affection for him remains strong.
In the same interview, Nicky Jam also spoke about his personal struggle with alcohol: "I've been battling alcohol for several years, and I admit it." He recalled a phrase that deeply impacted him, one said by Daddy Yankee during a baseball game: "Nicky, I refuse to be a slave to the industry."
"I've performed at the World Cup. I have six or seven songs with over a billion views each. What more can I do?" the artist pondered about a career that, friendship or not with Enrique Iglesias, has cemented him as a key figure in the urban music scene.
Nicky Jam and Enrique Iglesias: Behind the Scenes
Why did Nicky Jam say he wasn't friends with Enrique Iglesias?
Nicky Jam mentioned that Enrique Iglesias was complicated and very private, which made it challenging to form a friendship.
What was Nicky Jam’s reaction to Enrique Iglesias rejecting his gift?
Nicky Jam was left stunned and stood in disbelief for about half an hour when Enrique Iglesias declined the watch he offered as a gift.
How did Nicky Jam feel about Enrique Iglesias' impact on his career?
Nicky Jam acknowledged that Enrique Iglesias played a crucial role in his career, and their collaboration was mutually beneficial.
What personal issues did Nicky Jam discuss in the interview?
In the interview, Nicky Jam opened up about his ongoing battle with alcohol and shared a significant piece of advice he received from Daddy Yankee.