AQUIHAYAQUIHAY Talks New Music, Diversity & More

Long gone are the times of the prim and proper boy band that dominated the late 90’s and early 2000’s. In a current time of accountability, inclusivity and diversity come a group of friends from Mexico, AQUIHAYAQUIHAY. Contrast has had a consistent roster of talent pushing the norm and AHAH continue this conversation with their refreshing take on Latin music.

Everything has fallen into place with them as naturally as can be. Starting from the creation of the name, which in Spanish “It’s here, it’s here.” It was a running joke in their local neighborhood and continued to repeat itself during sessions, outings and appearances.

Eventually they felt it was something that resonated heavily as it was a saying of action and also how they felt, thus they officially claimed it as their professional name.

Pushing through boundaries from day one as they feel it’s not common, normal and neither as supported for one to say “I want to be an artist when I grow up.” It’s more frequently heard of young kids aiming their sight on becoming a soccer player as the sport is an immense part of the Mexican and even Latin culture for that matter. Becoming an athlete or having a 9-5 career is supported very highly and anything else is easily dismissed. They’ve remained fearless from inception of their career and carry that attitude while molding their sound.

Five minds put their best foot forward using their admiration for current artists while also infusing their different influences. Their work has and continues to be made out of a true collaboration, appreciation and respect within each other. Making it a point to highlight each other’s strengths to make art rather than oppressing one another allows for a healthy creative environment. There’s no room for toxic behavior as noted in the past with musical groups selecting a favorite or “the leader.” These boys want you to know they are all the face of the group and they bring something unique to the table.

Hailed as an “anti-boyband,” AQUIHAYAQUIHAY is breaking the rules of what it required to be in one. Acknowledging the ones that came before them but doing it their own way free of stereotypes. There aren’t standards of beauty or aims of competition between them. They as friends first collectively are supporting one another in this world of music. They have been consistent with their labor and the hard work is speaking for itself as they are now signed with Superstar DJ Steve Aoki’s label DIM MAK EN FUEGO.

In February, the boys began a new chapter under their new home with the release of not one but two EPs entitled “☺” and “☹.” Cohesive in sound and quality, both projects showcase and highlight their chemistry in and out of the studio. Innovative in genre bending and fresh approaches to the vocal production are some of the key elements one will find throughout any of the tracks. They also released the video for “</3,” further emphasizing their rebellious and daring nature that has been a connecting factor for their audience. 

Moving organically as one is what has made them stand out. They don’t divide themselves and certainly do not fold to criticisms of what they cannot or should not do. Creating boldly without fear and free of trends, they are putting all their hearts into it and successfully taking all the risks. In their own words, “Don’t limit yourself, their proof that if you dive fully into your passion, the universe will take care of the rest.”

Their new music video for “GRAVE” with Lil Benjas from their EP “:)” premieres today, March 22. “Grave” is a song about dangerous situations, explaining how even dangerous situations can be positive if you approach them differently and that it is no big deal to have fun taking risks. In the new video, the group portrays an apocalyptic world, which just like love can be dangerous if not handled with care and illustrates how any situation can be fun if approached correctly. 

Watch the trailer for their “GRAVE” music video directed by Cruz Lee & produced by Adrian Be below.