J Balvin and Ryan Castro drew a powerful connection between music and soccer during Instagram’s latest Close Friends Only episode, reflecting on what it means to reach the biggest stages in their respective fields. The conversation, released on June 30, also saw Ryan Castro name James Rodríguez as Colombia’s greatest football player.
During the interview, the pair discussed how artists and athletes often share similar journeys, beginning with childhood dreams before reaching global recognition. Ryan compared performing at events like Coachella and stadium concerts to the emotions footballers experience when representing their country at the FIFA World Cup.
“I feel like it’s a really good opportunity for the Colombian national team to be there at the World Cup, because they’re just like us,” Ryan said. “For us to be at Coachella, play a stadium, and the feeling they get from going to a World Cup. A kid who grew up in the neighborhood playing soccer.”
J Balvin then asked who Ryan considers the greatest Colombian footballer of all time. Without hesitation, the Medellín-born artist pointed to James Rodríguez, praising the midfielder’s impact on both the sport and the country. “James has done some really great things in soccer… and has brought a lot of joy to the country,” Ryan responded.
The exchange became one of the standout moments from the episode, which explored everything from family values to musical inspirations and life behind the spotlight.
Earlier in the conversation, Ryan revealed that building a family remains one of his biggest personal goals. Laughing alongside Balvin, he admitted that he would not mind having “a little soccer team” of children one day, crediting his Latino upbringing for instilling a relentless work ethic.
The pair also reflected on the beginning of their friendship. Ryan shared that the first direct message from a celebrity that truly surprised him came from J Balvin himself, while Balvin recalled receiving an unforgettable message from The Weeknd.
Music influences also entered the discussion. Balvin revealed that rock music, particularly Nirvana, inspired him to pursue a career as a performer before he ever stepped into reggaeton. He recalled learning covers of “Smells Like Teen Spirit” as one of his earliest musical experiences.
Ryan, meanwhile, explained that he frequently looks to elite athletes for motivation, highlighting soccer stars and NBA players for their discipline, training habits and commitment to self-improvement. He specifically mentioned Jimmy Butler, praising the basketball player’s dedication both on and off the court.
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