Emilia released “BODYPAINTING” on Oct. 29, her 30th birthday. The song is her first solo single of the year and the first preview of her forthcoming third studio album. In 2026, she has also collaborated with artists including Manuel Turizo, Ludmilla, Latto, Carlos Vives, Wisin and Zara Larsson.
Speaking on Billboard’s “Cafecito Con” video series, Emilia said she took time to work on the album and choose its singles. She described the start of a new creative process as a period of uncertainty, adding that she felt pressure to follow her 2023 album, “.mp3,” while also meeting fans’ expectations. She said she tries to balance input from her team with her own instincts.
“Bodypainting” blends alternative and electronic music with the pop sound at the heart of Emilia’s work. She said she wanted to challenge herself to take pop in a new direction and described the song as reflecting a more mature version of herself, shaped by her experiences and moments from her life.
The track focuses on freedom and sensuality, themes Emilia said she had previously felt comfortable avoiding. She told Billboard she is excited about this new phase. The episode also covered her collaboration with Zara Larsson, performing at Coachella, her gym routine and a trip to Japan with her boyfriend, Duki.
Sources: Billboard.