Things may never be the same for AQUIHAYAQUIHAY…
The Mexican anti-boy band has signed with Steve Aoki’s new Latinx-focused imprint Dim Mak En Fuego and launches its first single, “Ya No Es Igual.”
The multi-faceted producer, who has collaborated with a slew of Latin artists — including Daddy Yankee, Maluma and Maná– launched the label to help nurture and develop Latinx artists “driven from the underground scene,” according to Aoki. The move was born from the bond he’s had with his global Latin fanbase.
“We’ve been planning this for quite some time now. These things take time to build and it all started when I started doing more of the Latin collaborations — it was then that I started planting the seeds,” Aoki tells Billboard. “I’ve gotten so much support from my Latin fanbase and I’ve built a bond with them and its culture. Their acceptance has not only helped me collaborate with Latin artists, but it’s also now allowed me to be part of the development and nurturing of Latin artists too.”
Aoki launched his own record label, Dim Mak, 24 years ago.
Dedicated to releasing hybrid sounds from the global underground alongside contemporary hitmakers, Dim Mak En Fuego’s team includes Bryan Linares (head of marketing) and Christian Herrerra (co-founder of Gasolina Party). Distribution partners include Merlin, A2IM and FUGA.
Their first and only signed artist (so far) is Mexican self-described anti-boy band AQUIHAYAQUIHAY, who launch the label with the release of their pop-tinged R&B track “Ya No Es Igual.”
“The idea of launching with AQUIHAYAQUIHAY really cements where we want Dim Mak En Fuego to land,” says Linares. “We could’ve come out with a straight reggaeton record but coming out with them feels very authentic to us because we come from the underground.”
“They are amazing young kids who are doing something different,” says Aoki of the group. “When we heard the music and saw what they’re doing and their drive I thought, ‘that’s it.’ This is the kind of feeling we need when we sign an artist. I’m excited about watching what they can do.”