Latin Grammys 2018: See Nicky Jam, J Balvin Perform Charming ‘X’

Nicky Jam performed his indelible hit “X” — a nominee for Record of the Year — and “Jaleo,” a collaboration with electronic producer Steve Aoki, at the Latin Grammys.

“X” is a great duet with J Balvin, but initially Jam took the stage alone in Las Vegas. Luckily, Balvin showed up in time to sing the second verse, leaning casually against a massive, revolving cast of the letter X. The stage set-up could have been improved — there were awkward moments when both performers were hidden from view as the “X” rotated slowly away from the crowd.

But none of that mattered too much: The squiggly instrumental hook that boosts “X” was as effective as ever. In addition, Balvin and Jam charmed the crowd with their goofy, purposefully unpracticed dance moves.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ewjjbiOamHA

After “X,” Jam moved on to “Jaleo,” a track with Steve Aoki that came out in October. A slew of dancers in blue jumpsuits, red bandanas and orange hats who jumped around with mosh-pit-ready energy, joined them onstage.

Aoki was also present at last year’s Latin Grammys, when he performed with J Balvin. “I like the fish-out-of-water feeling,” the EDM producer told Rolling Stone recently. “I like working with artists that have never worked with an EDM producer. I want to start fresh. I want to be so uncomfortable — not necessarily uncomfortable, but so challenged that I need to rethink how I’m gonna go about interpreting how to do this remix or this collaboration. I prefer that, because I actually learn more.”