HYBE Launches Latin American Band MUSZA, Bolstering Global Strategy with K-Pop System

Global entertainment giant HYBE is intensifying its worldwide reach by leveraging its signature K-pop production system, now with the introduction of Latin American band MUSZA.

Following the established success of BTS and SEVENTEEN, HYBE has already made significant strides in the US with KATSEYE and in Japan with &TEAM, marking a successful implementation of its 'multi-home, multi-genre' strategy. The addition of MUSZA, the winners of HYBE Latin America's band audition program 'Pase a la Fama,' signifies the first step in completing a crucial triangular structure for its global operations across Asia, English-speaking markets, and Spanish-speaking regions.

This move directly supports HYBE Chairman Bang Si-hyuk's vision to export the K-pop production model. The strategy focuses on integrating and expanding the 'K-pop methodology' within local music ecosystems to discover and nurture new global artists. HYBE believes this approach will enhance the longevity of K-pop and potentially redefine the global music market's paradigm.

The members of MUSZA expressed their ambition, stating, "We dream of reaching fans worldwide with music that strongly resonates with our roots in Latin America. Our contract with HYBE Latin America is an incredible opportunity and the beginning of a journey to create music that breaks down barriers."

Here's a look at the Q&A with MUSZA, released through HYBE Latin America's new label, S1ENTO Records:

Q. Congratulations on winning 'Pase a la Fama' and achieving your debut dream with HYBE Latin America. How do you feel?

Gerardo Rodríguez (Vocal): It still feels surreal, like a dream come true, but it also comes with a great sense of responsibility. It proves that something powerful happens when we are all together.

Rodolfo Blackmore (Bass): It's a great honor. I've pursued music since I was very young, but I learned that my strength grows when I share music as part of MUSZA. Winning 'Pase a la Fama' is more than just an award; it's a responsibility to continue creating sincerely.

Cynthia Ochoa (Drums): I feel proud. My parents made many sacrifices for me to chase this dream. Winning as a team shows that women in bands can shine on stage, and I'm happy about that.

Ramiro Zuñiga (Bajo Quinto/Sub-vocal): I grew up surrounded by 'Norteño music.' This win signifies bringing my roots to a new stage. I'm thrilled to show that tradition can evolve onto a modern, global platform.

Jordi Blanco (Saxophone): I'm thankful to my family and everyone who supported me endlessly. 'Pase a la Fama' gave us the chance to perform in front of many people, and winning showed that our music touched people's hearts.

Oscar Campos (Accordion): It feels like destiny. Music has always been my sanctuary, and I'm so grateful for MUSZA and the experience on 'Pase a la Fama.' Now, I can share everything I've experienced and felt with the world.

Q. 'Pase a la Fama' was the first band audition program in North and South America. What was the most memorable moment in this inspiring yet unfamiliar format?

MUSZA: 'Pase a la Fama' was completely different from anything we had experienced before. It was intense, emotionally charged, and pushed us beyond our limits. The moment we performed together for the first time in front of so many people, the energy of the venue gave me confidence. Despite it being a competition, the friendships we built with other contestants have always been a strong source of support.

Q. With six members from different regions, what kind of music does MUSZA want to present in the future?

MUSZA: Each member has a unique color. We harmonize Mexican traditional music with pop, R&B, rock, and urban styles. We aim to create music that is fresh yet connected to our roots, telling true stories about our lives and communities. Simultaneously, we are exploring global music trends. We hope fans feel that our music represents them while also being something new and exciting.

Q. With HYBE Latin America, global expansion is highly anticipated. What are your future goals?

MUSZA: We dream of reaching fans worldwide with music that strongly resonates with our roots in Latin America. In that sense, our contract with HYBE Latin America is an incredible opportunity and the start of a journey to create music that transcends boundaries. We hope to stand on global stages, collaborate with artists from diverse genres, and inspire other young generations by showing that their culture and identity can shine on the world stage.

MUSZA is a band formed by the winners of HYBE Latin America's audition program, 'Pase a la Fama.' They aim to blend the unique musical flavors of Latin America with HYBE's renowned K-pop production system to create a distinct global sound. Each member brings a diverse musical background, promising a rich and varied musical output.