From the sun-soaked fields of Salinas, California, ¿Qiensave? bursts onto the musical landscape with a vibrant blend of Cumbia Urbana and infectious stage energy that has taken them from local fame to international stages in Arizona, Mexico, and Colombia. This dynamic ensemble, rooted in the rich cultural tapestry of Michoacán, Mexico, crafts high-energy dance music that not only moves bodies but also transcends borders.
Since their formation in 2009, ¿Qiensave? has evolved into a powerhouse of creative talent. Led by Carlos “Qien” L. Cortez, the band’s frontman, rhythm guitarist, and a visionary with deep theatrical and musical roots, the group has matured into a leading voice in the Latin music scene. Their sophomore album Mujer, released via ONErpm Music and featuring production by Latin Grammy-nominee Eric Canales and Platinum Producer Sam Pura, marks a significant chapter in their journey, showcasing their ability to blend traditional sounds with contemporary influences.
The band’s lineup—Carlos Cortez, Alejandro Gomez, Mario Cortez, William Cortez, and Ricardo Cortez—is a collection of multi-talented musicians whose synergy ignites their live performances. Each member brings a wealth of experience and a unique artistic flavor, making ¿Qiensave? not just a band, but a musical brotherhood. Whether it’s the lead guitar riffs of Alejandro Gomez, the rhythmic güira of Mario Cortez, the deep bass of William Cortez, or the dynamic drums of Ricardo Cortez, each performance is an explosive display of talent and passion.
Their new single “512-1433” tells a quirky tale of romantic mix-ups, further highlighting their flair for blending storytelling with rhythm. As they promote this track, ¿Qiensave? continues to share stages with legendary acts like Celso Piña and La Santa Cecilia, cementing their place in the vibrant world of Latin music.
Beyond the music, ¿Qiensave? is known for their theatrical stage shows that incorporate elements of costume and performance art, bringing a visual feast that complements their auditory allure. The band’s philosophy, influenced by Carlos’s background in theater, transforms each concert into a spectacle, reminiscent of a vibrant garden coming to life.
Currently, the band is not only touring but also engaging in exciting collaborations, including a project with DJ El Dusty, who is infusing their cumbia rhythms with techno and hip-hop. They are also contributing to a new album with rock musician Chuck Prophet, adding a cumbia twist to his upcoming work. With plans to release their next album in 2025, ¿Qiensave? is meticulously crafting a collection of songs that promise to be as diverse in flavor as they are rich in storytelling.
In a world where music often transcends language and culture, ¿Qiensave? is a testament to the power of rhythm and rhyme to unite people, embodying the spirit of Cumbia Urbana with every note played and every step danced. Their journey is not just about music; it’s about creating experiences that resonate, inspire, and most importantly, get people moving.
