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A higher standard

Chica songs spread message of self-esteem

Three local chicas are setting new entertainment standards while positively impacting lives, one song at a time.  

Currently on a national tour through January, Emille Gandara, Monique Ximenez and Lynnette Collazo of the musical group, Chica, have grown together as a group and friends over three years. All three young women reside in Scottsdale.

 Sporting contagious smiles, polished dance routines and encouraging words, these young Latinas are bucking an entertainment industry that sometimes glorifies sex, drugs and violence to sell music.

“We want to set an example for young Latinas,” says Gandara, who was born in Puerto Rico and by the age of nine was recording radio and television jingles.

“Our music is about empowerment and promoting self-esteem. We live that, so we write about it in our music.”

They add that their act is bound by a common love for music and their spiritual faith. 

Chica’s recording company’s co-founder says he saw more in the girls than just pretty faces.

“Sought After Entertainment signs artists with a message,” says David Turner, the company’s co-founder in Scottsdale. “Chica is a great example of a new standard within the entertainment industry. Their beats are powerful, their lyrics impactful and their performance is fun and memorable.”

Like many aspiring artists, the members of Chica have overcome obstacles.

“There was a time when we lost it all,” says Gandara. “Chica encountered a crossroads and we were either going to close the chapter and call it a day, or stick it out together.”

The decision to stick it out forged their no-quit attitude and brought them closer together. They recall it as the one defining moment in their musical careers, one that stands out from all others.

And their choice to not disband has led them to many new opportunities, including releasing their first 13-track Chica album, which integrates pop with Latin and urban influences.

Musically and professionally, they all agree that they’ve only begun the Chica journey and that much awaits them. Personally, they hope their message, and purpose, will continue to resonate in the heart of listeners.

“Respect yourself…and most of all, find the true value you hold within yourself,” is the message they collectively send.

Visit www.chicamusiconline.com to learn more about Chica.