The Heart of Hyperpop: An Interview with Colombian Artist AntoPiko3
Ever wondered how a heart obsession and Colombian roots can birth a reggaeton hyper-pop sensation? Dive into the vibrant world of AntoPiko3, where love, freedom, and musical innovation collide. From her unique creative process to her aspirations for the future, this interview unveils the story behind the artist, her inspirations, and her journey navigating the music scene with authenticity and passion. Get ready to be inspired by her story, her sound, and her vision for a world where music knows no boundaries.
FEATURE INTERVIEW:
What’s ANTOPIKO3’s origin story?
It’s the story of my life. antopiko3 as a name comes from the Heart, everything connected to love. Since I was little, I’ve always been obsessed with hearts. My first email was “antolove.” The character’s origin is deeply linked to my life—and to life itself.
How does growing up Colombian influence the unique way you blend reggaetón and hyper-pop?
Everything. The people, the food, the sounds, and just the diversity of the country itself. It’s really cool to be aware of the place you live in and how it shapes every decision you make. Musically, Colombia has so much variety. A lot of us in the new generation of artists, myself included, are super multifaceted. That’s because so much happens in Colombia. Every corner is different, the weather changes constantly, and so does the music.
Tell us about “EN MOTO Medellín”. What’s your favorite line or verse from that song?
The chorus: “pensando unas cositas en moto a Medellín” (thinking about some things on the ride to Medellín). Or: “Dios me quiere pero, el diablo me ama montón” (God loves me, but the devil loves me a lot too).
What does “Romanticunt” mean and what has been your favorite moment on this tour?
Romanticunt is about the duality between romanticism and sexual freedom, and giving, as the LGBTI community did, a new meaning to the word. Romanticunt is about being a woman and being free, being 21 and doing whatever you want. Being a romantic, someone who falls in love, but at the same time not chasing after any guy. Favorite moment on tour: In Lyon, I ended up at an afterparty where a Japanese hardcore rock band was playing. They had their faces painted and were moshing, and it felt like such an adrenaline-packed, incredible experience.
Can you share a bit about your creative process when producing a new song?
I always try not to follow a linear process. First, I focus on my life experiences, reflecting, thinking about the memories my decisions bring me back to, and I start writing how I felt. Then that becomes verses that make sense and fit into the song. From there, I look for sounds that translate that feeling. That’s why my sound changes so much, just like feelings do. After that, I try to be clear about what sounds I want to use and meet up with my team.
Do you start with the beats, the lyrics, or the melodies?
Lyrics first, then melody, beats after that, and rhythm comes last.
How do you see the evolution of the Colombian music scene, especially for emerging artists in genres like hyperpop or more experimental styles?
I feel like it’s growing organically. Honestly, there are so many GOATs in Colombia. New generations have so much knowledge and can create incredible things just using production software. And now, it’s easier than ever to share your project. It’s beautiful to see how Colombians embrace every project regardless of genre or age. Bogotá, for example, is a tough but honest audience and they’ll give you back whatever energy you bring. And there’s so much space for anyone who wants to make music here, which I think is beautiful.
What message or feeling do you hope listeners take from your music?
Always embrace something real. Understand that any feeling they may have is part of being alive. The most beautiful thing about life is feeling, and the most important thing is being at peace. I like that when people listen to my music, they feel free, calm, powerful, and loved, regardless of what the songs are saying.
What advice would you give 15-year-old ANTOPIKO3?
Don’t be so hard on yourself. Don’t care about what people say. The same people who talk trash now will hype you up later. Don’t take anything personally, and remember nothing is forever. Enjoy every stage of life you’re in, without worrying about what comes next.
Is there an artist, from the past or present, who has especially inspired your sound or career?
Electronic music, reggaeton, and Russian hardcore influence my sound. Women like La Mala Rodríguez have always inspired me. And from the newer generation, bbtricks, I think she’s the coolest. Also Chavela Vargas, Yung lean, Selena, Babyxsos.
What would be your dream collaboration, and how do you imagine it would sound?
There are so many collabs I’d love to do. Juan Gabriel, even though it’s not possible anymore. It would’ve been an intense ballad adapted to the new era—to my sound—something super weird. John BIZ, my 15-year-old self loved him and still does. Peak heartthrob energy, papasito!
What challenges have you faced as a woman in the reggaeton world, and how have you overcome them?
Honestly? Hard. It’s tough to get taken seriously as a female artist, especially when you’re a woman who’s considered “pretty” in this industry. You have to fight to Have a voice and to be respected. I’ve pushed through by trusting myself, knowing when to listen to advice and when to ignore it, and setting boundaries and listen to myself instead.
Biggest “I made it” moment so far?
Playing Festival Center in my hometown Bogotá this year. I grew up downtown, so performing at a festival that is who we are as bogotanos with 3,000 people there, all singing my songs, was surreal. I looked at the crowd and thought, “these people came for me.” Beautiful energy. Also, in Bucaramanga, a fan gave me a drawing with my lyrics.
What are your goals for the future, both musically and personally? How do you plan to keep pushing boundaries in your work?
I try to avoid planning as much as I can because life’s unpredictable. My only real goal is to be at peace and feel fulfilled, with whatever I am doing. Just feel good where I’m at. Music-wise, I just wanna keep making songs forever. No pressure, no hustle for money, just making what I love, aligned with myself. That’s the goal.
Give us a secret.
Nobody expects it, but I’m an insane cook. Every time I cook, people are like, Wow.
What’s next musically: single, album? We want more!
I’m wrapping up some collabs that have me really excited.I don’t want to say which ones yet, but they’re fire. I’m also working on building a community in Colombia, and my EP is coming soon! I’m just finishing the final touches, but it’s ready!
TEAM CREDITS:
Editor-in-Chief: Prince Chenoa
Feature Editor: Taylor Winter Wilson (@taylorwinter)
Photographer: Jon Fernández Ozcariz (@jonfernandezphoto)
