Las Chicas de Nueva York were inspired by the groundbreaking success of Las Chicas del Can, but they were not directly affiliated with them. Both bands share a connection as pioneering all-female merengue groups that emerged during the same era, contributing to the evolution and popularization of merengue music across Latin America and beyond.
Las Chicas del Can:
Formed in the Dominican Republic in 1982 by producer Wilfrido Vargas, this group is considered the first all-female merengue band. Their success laid the groundwork for similar ensembles, combining traditional merengue rhythms with a contemporary style and empowering women in a male-dominated genre.
Las Chicas de Nueva York: Formed in New York by Dominican producer Raphy Pou, this group was clearly influenced by the concept of an all-female merengue band but sought to establish its own identity, blending merengue with salsa and showcasing a bicultural image that connected New York’s Latino diaspora with Dominican traditions.
Although the two groups were contemporaries and shared stylistic similarities, they were separate entities. The success of Las Chicas del Can undoubtedly opened doors for other female-led projects like Las Chicas de Nueva York, but each band had its own production team, artistic direction, and distinct identity.
