Making Movies Band blends Latin rhythm, rock energy, and activism into one powerful sound. Discover how this Kansas City group is redefining Latin-American rock for a new generation.
The Rise of Making Movies Band
In a world where most artists chase trends, Making Movies Band has carved out something timeless — a blend of Latin roots, rock grit, and cultural storytelling that hits both the heart and the hips.
Formed in Kansas City, Missouri, by Panamanian-born frontman Enrique Chi and his brother Diego Chi, the band brings together musicians from across the Americas. Alongside percussionist Juan Carlos Chaurand and drummer Duncan Burnett, they create a sound that’s as diverse as their heritage.
“Our sound is American music with an asterisk — it represents all of the Americas,” says Enrique Chi.
A Fusion That Transcends Borders
Making Movies seamlessly blends Latin rhythms like cumbia and son cubano with psychedelic rock and spoken-word poetry. The result is cinematic and bold — a sound that celebrates identity, struggle, and joy.
Their live shows feel more like cultural experiences than concerts — full of sweat, rhythm, and purpose. NPR praised their style as “deeply thought-out lyrics over rhythms that both propel and float.”
Albums That Tell Stories
Every record by Making Movies Band dives into real-world themes — immigration, love, family, and resistance:
- A La Deriva (2013): A concept album about immigrant family struggles.
- I Am Another You (2017): A reflection on identity inspired by the Mayan phrase In Lak’ech Ala K’in (“I am another you”).
- ameri’kana (2019): A celebration of unity, featuring Latin legend Rubén Blades on the Grammy-nominated “No Te Calles.”
Each album pushes boundaries and keeps their message of cultural pride front and center.
Music With a Mission
Beyond their music, Making Movies champions activism and mentorship. Through their nonprofit Art as Mentorship, they help young artists from immigrant and underserved communities find their voice through music.
Their commitment to art as social change has earned them recognition not only in the music industry but also among educators, organizers, and fans who believe in the power of creativity to transform lives.
Why They Matter
In 2025, authenticity is rare — and Making Movies Band delivers it effortlessly. Their songs blend bilingual lyrics, complex rhythms, and emotional honesty in a way few modern bands can.
They remind us that Latin rock isn’t a subgenre — it’s a living, breathing fusion of cultures and sounds. And as global music becomes more homogenized, Making Movies stands tall as proof that individuality and cultural roots still matter. Latin-Rock Revolution
Listen to Making Movies
Start with these tracks to get hooked:
- 🎧 “No Te Calles” (ft. Rubén Blades)
- 🎧 “Carneval”
- 🎧 “Brave Enough”
- 🎧 “Spinning Out”
Their songs are available on all major platforms — but their message resonates far beyond streaming numbers.
