Breaking Barriers: How "Tusa" Became the Most-Watched Female Reggaeton Video Ever

When Karol G and Nicki Minaj dropped Tusa back in November 2019, no one could have predicted the seismic impact this track would have on the reggaeton scene — especially for female artists. Fast forward to today, and Tusa stands tall as the most-watched female reggaeton video ever on YouTube, surpassing a staggering 1.6 billion views. But how did this powerhouse collaboration break records and disrupt an industry historically dominated by male voices? Let’s dive into the story behind Tusa’s historic rise and why it continues to resonate with fans worldwide.

The Genesis of a Global Anthem

Karol G, a Colombian reggaeton superstar known for her fierce lyricism and empowering anthems, envisioned Tusa as more than just another breakup song. It was a celebration of strength, heartbreak, and moving on with unapologetic confidence. The title itself — tusa — is Colombian slang for that stubborn feeling of emotional pain after a breakup, something universally relatable yet rarely spotlighted so candidly in mainstream music.

“I wanted to tell a story that every woman has lived at some point,” Karol G shared in a sit-down interview. “Tusa is about that moment when you decide to stop hurting and start partying, being unapologetically yourself.” That raw emotional charge set the tone for the track’s infectious beat and catchy chorus.

Nicki Minaj: The Perfect Collaborator

What skyrocketed Tusa into the stratosphere was the unexpected but oh-so-powerful feature from none other than Nicki Minaj. The Queens native and megastar rapper brought global star power and lyrical prowess that crossed cultural and language boundaries. This was more than a feature; it was a celebration of female solidarity across genres.

Karol G revealed, “Nicki has always been someone I admired. When we spoke about the collaboration, there was this mutual respect and excitement that pushed both of us creatively. She brought such a fierce energy to the track.” Nicki herself has said, “Working on Tusa was a different vibe for me. It was about channeling that strength and vulnerability in a way that people could feel, no matter where they are in the world.”

The collaboration set a precedent: it was a clear statement that female artists in urban Latin music could break barriers together, amplifying each other’s voices on a global scale.

Crafting the Iconic Music Video

The Tusa music video, directed by Colin Tilley — an acclaimed director known for creating visually compelling narratives — is a cinematic journey that complements the song’s themes perfectly. From the eerie yet captivating gothic castle setting to the contrasting vibrant scenes of carefree celebration, the video is a brilliant exploration of heartbreak’s complexity.

Karol G described the filming process as “magical but intense,” appreciating how the visuals took the story beyond just one dimension. “We wanted to create something that looked beautiful but also felt a bit dark — like how heartbreak has layers.”

The video’s high production value, combined with Karol G’s mesmerizing presence and Nicki Minaj’s dynamic verses, created a visual masterpiece that fans would return to time and time again. It became a staple of Latin music television and digital platforms alike, driving views through the roof.

Timing and Strategy: The Perfect Storm

The strategic release of Tusa also played a key role in its success. Dropped towards the end of 2019, the song arrived just before the global pandemic shifted how fans consumed music — leaning heavily on digital platforms like YouTube and streaming services. With live concerts halted, virtual connection via music videos became more important than ever.

Moreover, Tusa’s bilingual nature and crossover appeal made it accessible and addictive to diverse audiences — from hardcore reggaeton fans to Nicki Minaj’s rap followers and even casual pop listeners. The synergy between Karol G’s Latin roots and Nicki’s international star status created a perfect storm for viral growth.

Breaking Barriers and Setting Records

What does it mean for Tusa to be the most-watched female reggaeton video ever? Beyond the impressive 1.6 billion views, it signals a paradigm shift. Female artists in Latin urban music have historically faced uphill battles in a male-dominated genre. Tusa shattered preconceived notions about what female collaborations could achieve, opening doors for a new generation.

Karol G spoke candidly about the importance of this milestone: “For me, Tusa’s success is about proving that women can not only compete but dominate the reggaeton space. It’s about inspiring others to believe in their power.”

Industry watchers agree — Tusa is no longer just a song or a video. It’s a cultural symbol of empowerment and boundary-breaking possibilities in Latin music.

The Fan Connection: What Tusa Means Today

What makes Tusa truly iconic is how fans continue to embrace it years after its release. Social media buzzes with fans sharing memories of their own ‘tusa’ moments, creating memes, dance challenges, and heartfelt tributes. The song’s message of overcoming heartbreak with strength and sass resonates universally.

So, what does Tusa mean to you? Whether it was the anthem to getting over a tough breakup, a party soundtrack, or just a moment of self-empowerment, thousands of listeners have found their own story in Karol G and Nicki Minaj’s hit.

Have you got a Tusa memory that still slaps? Share your stories and favorite moments below — let’s celebrate how this iconic track has touched hearts across the globe.

What’s Next for Female Reggaeton?

While Tusa set the bar high, the future looks even brighter. Female reggaeton artists are carving out more space with bold collaborations, fierce lyrics, and innovative visuals. Karol G leads this charge, with upcoming projects promising to keep pushing boundaries, proving that the reign of women in Latin urban music is just getting started.

In the words of Karol G, “We’re just getting started. The world is ready for more women to take the spotlight, and that excites me.”

Breaking barriers, empowering women, record-breaking views, and iconic collabs — Tusa is not just a song; it’s a movement that reshaped reggaeton forever. Its legacy is a testament to the unstoppable force female artists bring to Latin music, inspiring millions to own their stories and dance through the pain.

Stay tuned because the evolution of female reggaeton is unfolding right before our eyes — and if Tusa taught us anything, it’s that the beat only gets louder from here.