The Daughters of Rap, an activist collective that sings from the Mexican southeast, an activist collective sounds from the Mexican southeast, Feminism and activism from the Mexican southeast.
In the print version of our August issue, we described Las Hijas del Rap as an indigenous collective. However, and despite their Maya and Olmec roots, this term doesn't accurately describe these talented hip-hoppers.
In their own words: "We respect and admire the work of those who identify as indigenous, and while part of the collective is of Maya heritage, we wouldn't want to appropriate a struggle that doesn't include us. In other words, we walk alongside the cause of first nations, but we don't identify as an indigenous collective."
Last October, I came across an announcement for a performance by Las Hijas del Rap at the Palacio de la Música in Mérida, Yucatán. Unfortunately, I couldn't attend due to an unexpected twist of fate, but that led me to discover their first studio album, 'Xek del Sabor.' The powerful honesty in their lyrics deeply moved me. At that moment, I realized how much I regretted missing them live and became determined to catch them at the next opportunity. Luckily, I might not have to wait much longer. Now let me explain.
Rap, from Jamaica to Yucatán
The term 'rap,' short for 'Rhythm And Poetry,' perfectly captures the rise of Phana Mulixa, Leona, and Nina Nina, the talented members of Las Hijas del Rap. Nina Nina, originally from Coatzacoalcos, Veracruz, can make any crowd dance wherever she goes. Leona, who supposedly made her first cry the day she was born in Dzidzantún, loves belting out songs with her girlfriend and family in her free time. And then there's Phana Mulixa from Jo’ (the Maya name for Mérida)—if you ever have the pleasure of meeting her, you'll probably find her dancing or surrounded by her plants, making up stories or drawing with her daughter, her little adventure buddy. These three poets have an incredible gift for connecting with the world and embracing their Olmec and Maya roots. They bring so much life and energy to their music, and their passion is truly infectious.
From the origins of hip-hop culture in Jamaica and, later, in the peripheral neighborhoods of the United States in the mid-seventies, rap has been a provocative and reclaiming musical form, belonging to those who have an urgent social reality to tell but are not always made visible by those who hold the reins of the industry and its resources.
The spirit of Las Hijas del Rap
Decades after its emergence and many miles away, the songs of Leona, Phana Mulixa, and Nina Nina keep the original spirit of rap alive. These three hip-hoppas, who faced countless challenges ten years ago due to the sexist and capitalist attitudes in the local scene—and beyond—now tell their stories out loud, without fear, and with plenty of rhythm.
Songs like '01 800 Hip Hop' and 'El Tren Se Cancela' boldly address controversial social issues in today's world. Meanwhile, tracks like 'Tú No Me Tocas' (one of my favorites), 'Másturbo,' and 'Melindrosa' assert the autonomy and reclamation of one's body against any individual or group daring to invade it without consent. For a dive into the most intimate and mystical part of their discography, I highly recommend 'La Danza de la Lluvia.' The way it connects with the audience—and the rain—during concerts, its deep ritualistic feel, and the family memories it holds make it a favorite of Las Hijas del Rap (all three members), and of yours truly! It's truly something special.
Las Hijas del Rap, on tour live
You can catch all these songs and more, not just through streaming, but also during the upcoming tour of Las Hijas del Rap! From August to October 2024, they’ll be performing across various parts of Yucatán (Mérida, Valladolid, Sitilpech, and Kimbilá), as well as Bacalar, and Chetumal in Quintana Roo, México City, and Xalapa. Plus, they’ll be making history as the first Yucatecan group to tour three cities in Costa Rica as part of the URÀ Mercado Musical de Centroamérica y el Caribe
If, like me, something resonated with you when listening to Las Hijas del Rap and you believe in artistic projects that fight for a more dignified and just world, there is a possibility to collaborate with them on their next project! You just have to send them your proposal or request more information by emailing them directly: lashijasdelrap@gmail.com
Today, Las Hijas del Rap are more than just a musical group. They're a powerful activist project that connects through shared tastes and concerns with other female rappers, aiming to contribute to their community for years to come through their music and actions, even when they are no longer around.
I’m eagerly awaiting the start of their tour to finally hear them live, and I encourage you to keep a close eye on the work of these three amazing hip-hop artists.
Las Hijas del Rap and the value of telling one's own story
The ability to tell our stories, and more importantly, to tell our own story, is something that should always be celebrated for the bravery and courage it takes. Every reality deserves the chance to be heard through the words of those who live it. When we share our stories, most of us will see that they are not just ours, nor are they unique; they resonate with many other lives. When we recognize ourselves in someone else’s story, our everyday existence gains a much deeper meaning.
Las Hijas del Rap
IG: lashijasdelrap
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Photography by Las Hijas del Rap, for its use in Yucatán Today.
First published in Yucatán Today print and digital magazine no. 440, in August 2024.
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