The Making of a Global Smash: The Creative Process Behind “I Like It” by Cardi B, J Balvin, and Bad Bunny

“I Like It” took the world by storm in the summer of 2018. Featuring Cardi B, J Balvin, and Bad Bunny, the single dominated charts and playlists internationally. With its infectious beat, catchy lyrics, and cross-cultural appeal, “I Like It” had all the makings of a global smash hit. But how did this collaboration between a rising American rapper and two of Latin music’s biggest stars come together? Let’s take a look behind the scenes at the creative process that went into crafting one of the biggest songs of the year.

The Beat is Born

As with many hit songs, “I Like It” started with its foundation – the beat. Producing the track was Colombian DJ and record producer Tainy, known widely as one of the key architects of the Latin trap sound. Reggaeton rhythms are Tainy’s specialty, and he crafted a beat for “I Like It” that blended reggaeton’s signature hip-hop backbeat with elements of Latin trap. This fusion of styles positioned the song right at the intersection of the sounds J Balvin, Bad Bunny, and Cardi B are known for.

Tainy has spoken about how the beat just came to him naturally in the studio one day. He laid down those hypnotic reggaeton drums and crisp hi-hats that define the song’s backbone. Layering in simple yet effective Latin trap melodies and instrumentation, Tainy had the foundation for what would become a global smash. The beat had that quintessential summer party feel – it was designed for the dancefloor from the start.

A Cross-Cultural Collaboration is Born

Once the beat was complete, the next step was assembling the right lineup of artists. Partnering Cardi B, a rapper with Dominican roots breaking big in the US, with Latin music titans J Balvin and Bad Bunny was a stroke of genius. Their respective fanbases span cultures and countries, setting the stage for worldwide appeal.

Bringing these artists together was likely the work of their label, Atlantic Records, who recognized the commercial potential. But the artists themselves may have also been interested in collaborating, seeing an opportunity to cross over to new audiences. A meeting was set up between Cardi B, Balvin, Bunny, and Tainy to discuss the concept. They vibed off each other’s energy right away and knew this collaboration could be magic.

The Songwriting Process Begins

With the collaboration sealed and creative vision aligned, it was time for the songwriting process to begin in earnest. Cardi B, always one to dive in headfirst, started by laying down her rap verses. Her signature flow and boastful lyrics were a perfect match for the party-ready beat.

In another studio, J Balvin and Bad Bunny worked on their Spanish verses. Bouncing ideas off each other, playing with rhythms and rhymes, their chemistry was palpable. Bad Bunny brought his effortless swagger while Balvin added his pop crossover flair. Together they crafted catchy, feel-good lyrics about enjoying the moment that resonated globally.

Bridging the Language Divide

Once Cardi, Balvin and Bunny had their individual parts mapped out, it was time to integrate them cohesively despite the language barrier. Meeting up again, they played each other their recordings and offered feedback. To help bridge the gap, Balvin and Bunny incorporated some English phrases into their verses for familiarity. Meanwhile, Cardi added a line or two in Spanish to further unite the song.

The Sample is Selected

At this stage, producer Tainy suggested adding a sample to give the song vintage flair and familiarity. He pitched the idea of interpolating Pete Rodriguez’s 1970 classic “I Like It Like That,” known widely as a salsa party staple. The other artists loved how the sample’s melodic hook tied everything together perfectly. It was the cherry on top – with this addition, “I Like It” was coming together as a surefire global hit.

Recording and Refining Begins

With the song structure and creative vision solidified, it was time to record. Cardi, Balvin and Bunny likely laid down their vocals separately due to scheduling. But Tainy kept close communication to ensure everything meshed seamlessly together. As the producer, he oversaw refinements to the beat, vocals and overall mix. Small tweaks and adjustments elevated the song at each stage of the process.

Polish for the Summer

In its final stages, “I Like It” underwent polishing to maximize its potential as a global summer anthem. Tainy and the artists focused on emphasizing the catchy hook and chorus. They added ad-libs, backing vocals and repetition to really drive the song’s energy through the roof. Ensuring the beat continued pulsating all the way through with that undeniable dancefloor momentum was also key.

With its final mix complete, “I Like It” was primed for worldwide domination. Its cross-cultural appeal, fusion of Latin and American pop styles, and pure party vibes had all the ingredients of a global smash. All that was left was to hit send and watch the magic unfold as the song took off across countries and cultures.

A Global Phenomenon is Born

Released in May 2018, “I Like It” immediately caught fire. It shot to number one on the Billboard Hot 100, making Cardi B the first female rapper to replace herself at the top. The song also topped charts internationally, achieving massive success in countries like Australia, Canada, France and the UK.

On streaming platforms, “I Like It” broke records. It became one of the most-streamed songs ever on Spotify. The music video, featuring the artists partying on a pink backdrop, racked up over a billion YouTube views. “I Like It” soundtracked the summer of 2018 everywhere, dominating playlists and airwaves for months.

Its massive success is a testament to the collaborative process that went into crafting this global phenomenon. From Tainy’s foundational beat to the artists’ chemistry in the studio, “I Like It” was meticulously assembled to appeal across all borders. Its story serves as a blueprint for future cross-cultural smashes, showing what can happen when diverse talents unite to create the perfect party anthem. To this day, “I Like It” remains one of the most successful pop collabs of all time – proof that when creativity and collaboration align, magic is sure to follow.