Music unites, excites and connects. And that is very good for Chiki Toonz, who with each song helps the kids – although they were born far – to discover and feel pride in their Latin roots.
With millions of children singing and dancing to the rhythm of their educational songs, Chiki Toonz has established itself as one of the most beloved children’s projects in the Spanish -speaking world. With more than 6.7 million subscribers on YouTube and 15 studio albums, the group continues to bet on a content that entertains, teaches and celebrates childhood.
Now they present their most ambitious project: “Raíces”, an album that invites the little ones – and also their families – to reconnect with the rich musical heritage of Latin America and Spain. Ten traditional songs, reinterpreted with a new energy, are part of this trip that crosses borders, unites generations and sowing cultural pride from an early age.
And they do it in the company of great voices of Latin American music: El Tamalito with Tania Libertad (Peru), Alma Llanera with Baby Salomé (Venezuela), hopefully it rains coffee with Daniel Santacruz (Dominican Republic), Rancho Grande with Michelle Rodríguez (Mexico), Sapo song with Diego Topa (Argentina), if you go for Chile with Christell (Chile) Henrique Lima (Brazil), Pollera Colorá with Juanse Laverde (Colombia), Bamboleo with Flaka (Spain) and Guantanamera with Aymée Nuviola (Cuba).
In addition to its musical value, roots include educational content for children to learn the history, geography and traditions of each country. In this interview, Chiki Toonz members tell us how they lived this experience, what they learned from collaborations and why they believe that music is a powerful tool to preserve cultural identity.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PTCij7gidfq
How do you think traditional music can help children connect with their cultural roots?
Mariano Ramírez / Chiki Blue: Traditional music is not just a melody or a beautiful lyrics; It is a way of telling the story of our peoples, of transmitting what we feel, how we live and what we value. When children listen and sing the traditional songs of their country or other countries in Latin America, they connect with their identity, with the customs of their grandparents and with the stories of their people. I think that, through music, we can travel, know other cultures and, at the same time, strengthen our pride.
Any collaboration left by special teaching or a very beautiful memory?
Mariano Ramírez / Chiki Blue: One of the most beautiful collaborations I have had was with Aymée Nuviola. We recorded together Guantanamera, a song with a lot of history in Latin America and especially in Cuba. Aymée not only has an incredible voice, but also taught me to interpret with the heart. It was a very special moment and I had the memory of how music can unite generations and cultures.
What did they learn about different cultures through these collaborations?
Catalina Parra / Chiki Pink: We learned a lot. Each song has its history, its rhythms, instruments, changing rooms … With Colorá Pollera I understood how cheerful and colorful Colombian culture, and with Guantanamera, Cuban poetry and the pride of its roots. Collaborating with great artists was an honor; They are true ambassadors of their culture and flavor.
What do they feel to be part of a project that seeks to educate and entertain at the same time?
Ivanna vernal / chiki yellow: I feel a lot of joy and tenderness, because educating other kids in the world and watching their videos singing with our songs is somewhat beautiful. We are very motivated to know that what we do has an impact and can leave a cultural legacy. It is something powerful of what I love to be part.
What kind of educational content accompanies the songs and how do children use it to learn?
Ivanna vernal / chiki yellow: We sing songs with cute and educational messages. We teach you about values, respect, friendship, shapes, colors, the alphabet, and more! With roots, children can learn about other countries and cultures in a fun way. It is nice to see how a country of a country can be proud of its roots and share them with the world.
How do you see the future of children’s music in the Spanish -speaking world?
Ale Müller / Chiki Purple: Very bright and full of rhythm. More and more families enjoy songs that teach and entertain. In Chiki Toonz we take great care what we show, because we want to preserve childhood, educate and entertain. As Aunt Pia says, we want to be a brand with purpose.
Do they have a fun anecdote during the recording of the album they want to share?
Leonardo Gonzales / Chiki Blue, Generation 2: It was a challenge to sing in Portuguese. Although we had classes, I rehearsed so much at home that I sang everywhere, even in the shower! My younger brother ended up learning the full song. It was fun and at the same time a great learning.
What activities do you like when they are not working on Chiki Toonz?
Amil Mikati / Chiki Orange, Generation 2: I run table and prepare a lot for championships, I am passionate! I also like video games and read. Before I practiced motocross, so I like everything that implies movement and adventure.
What is your favorite song to dance or sing at home?
Leonardo Gonzales / Chiki Blue, Generation 2: I like Tamalito and Rancho Grande. They reflect the great culture of Peru and Mexico: its history, its rhythms, its instruments. I also enjoy Chiki Charadas, because it allows us to interact with the chikis in a very funny way.
