Last Updated on February 24, 2025

Benny Blanco is not just another hit-making producer—he’s a force in the music industry, crafting chart-topping bangers for some of the biggest names in pop. But beyond his impressive resume, something particularly intriguing about his career is his deep-rooted fixation with Latin culture. From working with top-tier Latin artists to diving headfirst into Latin cuisine, Blanco has fully embraced the Latin world’s vibrant traditions, sounds, and flavors. And let’s not forget—he’s also engaged to Selena Gomez, one of the most influential Latina artists of her generation.

So, what’s behind Benny Blanco’s obsession with Latin culture? Is it appreciation, admiration, or something more? Let’s break it down.

Who is Benny Blanco? A Look at His Early Years

Before we dive into his love for Latin culture, let’s get to know Benny Blanco a little better. Born Benjamin Joseph Levin in 1988, Blanco grew up in Virginia and developed a love for music at an early age. His stage name, “Benny Blanco,” was inspired by the character Benny Blanco from Carlito’s Way—a nod to the music industry’s gritty, competitive nature.

Blanco’s passion for music was ignited in his teenage years when he started producing beats in his bedroom. His breakthrough came when he caught the attention of Dr. Luke, a renowned producer who mentored him in the early 2000s. Under Dr. Luke’s guidance, Blanco quickly became a sought-after songwriter and producer, working with artists like Katy Perry, Kesha, and Maroon 5. His knack for crafting infectious hooks and genre-blending soundscapes set him apart, earning him a reputation as one of the industry’s top hitmakers.

However, as his career progressed, Blanco’s musical interests began expanding beyond mainstream pop. He developed a deep admiration for Latin music, leading to some of his most exciting and unexpected collaborations.

The Soundtrack of Benny’s Latin Love Affair

Blanco’s journey into Latin music didn’t happen overnight. He built his reputation by producing some of the biggest pop and hip-hop hits, but his collaborations with Latin artists have been some of his most notable work.

1. “Señorita” (2019): While not officially credited as a producer, Blanco had a hand in the creative process behind this Latin-infused track by Camila Cabello and Shawn Mendes, which dominated the charts worldwide.

2. “I Can’t Get Enough” (2019): This track, featuring Latin music powerhouses Tainy, J. Balvin, and Selena Gomez, is a perfect example of Blanco’s seamless blending of Latin and pop influences. With a reggaeton-inspired beat and bilingual lyrics, the song became a global hit, proving his ability to tap into Latin rhythms authentically.

3. “Moonlight” (2023): Working with Colombian-American artist Kali Uchis, Blanco continued to showcase his love for Latin artistry with a song that blended dreamy pop and reggaeton elements.

4. “Quédate Bebé” (2024): His recent collaboration with Grupo Frontera demonstrates his ongoing interest in Latin sounds, this time diving into the booming regional Mexican music scene.

5. “Degenere” (2024): Teaming up with Puerto Rican artist Myke Towers, Blanco co-produced this reggaeton hit, which combines infectious Latin beats with Towers’ signature smooth flow. The song captures the essence of urban Latin music while maintaining a fresh, global appeal.

Blanco isn’t just dabbling in Latin music; he’s actively shaping it. His collaborations with Latin artists are more than just a passing trend—they’re a testament to his genuine admiration for the genre and its global impact.

Beyond the Music: Benny’s Love for Latin Heritage and Brands

His appreciation for Latin culture isn’t just about music—it extends into other areas, including branding and marketing. Blanco has partnered with and supported Latin businesses, using his influence to bring attention to Hispanic and Latin-owned brands.

For instance, in collaboration with Adobe, he helped revamp Mariscos 4 Vientos, a beloved Mexican seafood restaurant in Los Angeles. From creating social media content to designing new marketing materials, Blanco used his platform to support and elevate a business deeply rooted in Latin heritage. The restaurant even honored him with the “Benito Special”—a signature shrimp taco named after him.

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This kind of engagement isn’t common among mainstream producers, making Blanco’s consistent involvement with Latin culture stand out even more.

A Culinary Love Affair: Benny and Selena’s Mexican Food Obsession

If there’s one thing that Benny Blanco and Selena Gomez share (besides their love for music and each other), it’s their obsession with Mexican food. And when we say obsession, we mean it.

From their playful Valentine’s Day celebration—where Blanco filled a tub with queso dip and spelled out “I Love You” in nachos—to their frequent trips to authentic Mexican restaurants, their love for Latin cuisine runs deep. Blanco has been vocal about his appreciation for traditional Mexican food, often praising local taquerias and mariscos joints in Los Angeles. Some of his favorite spots include Mariscos Jalisco and La Unica, both known for their bold, authentic flavors.

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Selena, who has Mexican heritage, has also influenced Blanco’s culinary adventures. In her cooking show, Selena + Chef, she has explored Latin flavors, and Blanco has enthusiastically joined her in celebrating the rich traditions of Mexican cuisine.

Their passion for Latin food isn’t just performative—it’s something they actively incorporate into their lifestyle. And while some might see it as a quirky trait, it further cements Blanco’s deep-rooted admiration for Latin culture.

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Cultural Appreciation or Cultural Appropriation?

Here’s where things get a little complicated. When a non-Latin artist like Benny Blanco immerses himself so deeply in Latin music, food, and heritage, it naturally raises some questions. Is he simply appreciating the culture, or is he profiting from it in a way that borders on appropriation?

Despite his surname “Blanco,” which translates to “white” in Spanish, and his collaborations with Latin artists, there is no substantial evidence to suggest that Benny Blanco has appropriated Latin, Hispanic, or Mexican culture. His musical partnerships, such as the 2019 track ‘I Can’t Get Enough’ with Tainy, J. Balvin, and Selena Gomez, showcase a fusion of styles and are indicative of the global and collaborative nature of the music industry. These collaborations are consensual and mutually beneficial, aiming to blend different musical influences rather than appropriate them.

It’s important to distinguish between cultural appropriation and cultural appreciation or collaboration. Cultural appropriation involves adopting elements of a culture without permission, often leading to misrepresentation or exploitation. In contrast, Blanco’s work with Latin artists appears to be based on mutual respect and creative synergy, contributing to a diverse musical landscape.

While discussions about cultural appropriation in the music industry are valid and necessary, focusing on artists who intentionally misrepresent or exploit cultures is crucial. In Benny Blanco’s case, his collaborations reflect a celebration of diverse musical traditions rather than an appropriation of them.

Final Thoughts: A Latin Love Story?

Benny Blanco’s deep fascination with Latin culture is undeniable. Whether through his music, brand collaborations, or personal life, he has consistently embraced Latin heritage in a way that feels genuine rather than exploitative.

His career is an example of how music transcends borders, bringing together different cultures and sounds to create something unique. And with Selena Gomez by his side, it’s safe to say that his love for Latin culture isn’t just a phase—it’s part of who he is now.

So, is Benny Blanco a cultural appropriator or an admirer? That’s up to you to decide. One thing’s for sure: whether he’s producing reggaeton-infused bangers or indulging in a plate of tacos, his Latin fixation isn’t going anywhere anytime soon.