RYM Magazine

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DEMPHRA

Reverberations of the Past, Visions of the Future

TICKET 2.0 BEYOND THE CROWD

12-19

thriving with a worldwide tour celebrating their new album "HAASHVILLE," which honors their unique sound and features a deeply personal, gut-wrenching ballad born from heartbreak.

A celebration turns tragic when a Santo Domingo nightclub roof collapses during a live performance, causing significant loss of life and sparking a global demand for better venue safety and accountability

Reverberations of the Past, Visions of the Future

In this exclusive interview, Demphra reflects on her legacy, her evolving artistry, and the powerful connection she forges with audiences through her music's honesty and relatability

Reimagining the Live Music Experience

"Una Noche Con Grupo Clasificado" offers an intimate look at the band's journey, delving into their creative process, personal struggles, and enduring brotherhood Witness the energy of their rehearsals, where tradition meets innovation, and the band pushes musical boundaries. Experience the power of shared passion and perseverance as they overcome obstacles and celebrate triumphs Discover how their music seamlessly blends Norteño heritage with contemporary influences, creating a sound that is both timeless and fresh

The Future of Live Music Entry From NFTs to tiered access

20

Driven by curiosity and a passion for sonic exploration, Grammy-winner Andy Boza transforms sound engineering, from collaborating with music icons to creating groundbreaking immersive experiences

Technology as a Catalyst for Change

Technology continues to act as a powerful catalyst for change within the live music industry Advancements in ticketing technology are transforming how fans discover, purchase, and access live music events. Digital ticketing solutions, often integrated with mobile apps, offer convenience and enhanced security (Ticket Fairy 2025). Blockchain-based ticketing systems are being explored as a potential solution to combat ticket fraud and unauthorized reselling (Ticket Fairy 2025). Dynamic pricing models, which adjust ticket prices in real-time based on fluctuations in demand, are becoming increasingly prevalent (Pollstar News 2024) Personalized ticketing systems and biometric authentication methods for venue entry indicate a growing focus on enhancing security and creating more tailored experiences for fans (Ticket Fairy 2025). The integration of virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) technologies is also profoundly reshaping how live music is experienced. These immersive technologies are being utilized to create highly interactive and engaging environments for both individuals attending concerts in person and those tuning in remotely (Medium | Vocal Media). Social media platforms like TikTok, Instagram, YouTube, and Facebook have evolved into crucial tools for music discovery, event promotion, and fostering direct engagement between artists and their fan bases (Medium | SPEA)

Economic Realities

Several key economic factors are currently shaping the live music industry. Inflation has led to increased costs across various aspects of live event production, contributing to higher ticket prices for consumers (Harmonic Operations) The current economic climate, marked by a rising cost of living, has also made fans more discerning in their entertainment spending (Harmonic Operations). Ticket pricing strategies have become increasingly complex. Dynamic pricing models are now common practice, often resulting in substantial price increases for highly sought-after events (Pollstar News 2024) Tiered pricing structures have also become more prevalent, leading to a widening gap between the cost of the cheapest and most expensive tickets available for a show. Here is a draft conclusion for the article "Beyond the Crowd: Reimagining the Live Music Experience":

In conclusion, the live music industry is undergoing a period of significant transformation. While the desire for live music experiences remains strong, evolving consumer preferences, technological advancements, and economic pressures are reshaping the landscape. The rise of niche festivals, the adoption of dynamic pricing, and the integration of VR/AR technologies are all indicative of an industry adapting to these changes. As we look ahead, the ability of the live music sector to balance economic realities with the desire for accessible and engaging experiences will be crucial in ensuring its continued vitality and growth.

Demphra, the resonant voice that shaped an era of Latin music with La Factoría, is embarking on a powerful and transformative new journey. With the release of “Pa’ Curarme” and her eagerly awaited EP, "IMPARABLE," she's not merely revisiting her musical foundations; she's boldly reimagining them. Denava delves into Demphra's captivating story, exploring her artistic evolution, her enduring influence on the genre, and her fearless fusion of sounds that continue to enthrall audiences across the globe.

Denava: Demphra, it's a true honor to speak with you at this pivotal moment in your career. How does it feel to share your new music with the world, especially given the incredible wave of positive reception you ' ve been experiencing?

Demphra: It feels truly amazing to be here and to share my new songs with everyone, especially with the vibrant audience here in Chicago. The response has been overwhelmingly positive! It's deeply heartwarming to witness the outpouring of love from fans, including those who cherish the La Factoría era, as they embrace this new chapter. What's particularly special is the way they've connected with the fresh sound, notably the exciting blend with Mexican music. That fusion of urban rhythms and Mexican musicality is indeed a striking and defining element of your recent work What inspired you to weave those Mexican influences into your sonic tapestry?

Demphra: The Mexican sound is experiencing a surge in global popularity, and I felt a compelling urge to incorporate that rich essence into my own music. Also, I have a profound and personal connection with my Mexican heritage. We've thoughtfully integrated a variety of traditional instruments to craft that unique and distinctive sound, and I'm immensely grateful for the unwavering support from my dedicated fans in Mexico and throughout Latin America. This fusion has allowed me to reposition myself artistically and connect with a whole new generation of listeners.

Photos Taken at The Reggaeton Forever 2025 Tour Stop in Chicago, IL | Photo Credit JC Denava

Beyond drawing from personal experiences, are there any prevailing social or cultural trends that currently spark your creative fire or significantly influence your music?

Demphra: Earlier in my artistic journey, my music often leaned towards a more explicitly sensual expression. However, my focus has evolved, and now, I aspire to create music that transcends boundaries, music that can be embraced and enjoyed by everyone – families, individuals of all ages and backgrounds. Looking back at the rich tapestry of your artistic journey, from your formative influences to your pivotal time with La Factoría, who were some of the most significant inspirations that guided your path?

Demphra: El General stands out as a monumental inspiration. He, much like myself, fearlessly experimented with blending Jamaican sounds with other diverse genres, and that bold approach served as a powerful motivator for me to explore and push the boundaries of my own musical expression. How do you engage and interact with your fans in today's digital age, especially through social media platforms, and what kind of feedback do you typically receive regarding your electrifying performances and your exciting new releases?

Demphra: In recent times, the feedback has been overwhelmingly positive and supportive! I cherish those moments when I can bring people up on stage and create unforgettable memories, and it's incredibly important for me to nurture that connection with everyone through social media. Of course, there are occasional nostalgic comments about La Factoría, but overall, the bond and interaction with the fans are a source of immense joy and gratitude. La Factoría's timeless classics, such as "Perdóname," continue to resonate deeply with listeners and hold a special place in the hearts of many. What does it mean to you to witness those songs still being celebrated, sung with passion, and cherished by fans across generations?

Demphra: It's a truly awe-inspiring and humbling experience, and I'm filled with immense gratitude. To be recognized as an icon of Latin music, to have songs that continue to grace the airwaves, that achieved the pinnacle of number one hits – it's an extraordinary blessing. It's undoubtedly one of the driving forces that sustains my artistic spirit.

What do you believe is the enduring quality of those classic songs that grants them such remarkable staying power and timeless appeal?

Demphra: I believe their enduring appeal lies in their ability to evoke movement, joy, and relatability. They're songs that invite you to dance, to sing along, and to connect with the emotions expressed. The lyrics are direct, honest, and universally understood, and while I appreciate the more explicit expressions in music, these songs offer a more accessible and inclusive experience. The overall sound has also subtly evolved; it's perhaps a bit more refined and melodic compared to the earlier, more energetic style.

Demphra, it has been an absolute pleasure and a privilege to delve into your artistic journey and share your insights with the readers of Denava. We extend our sincerest wishes for continued success with "IMPARABLE" and this exciting new chapter in your career.

Demphra: Thank you from the bottom of my heart! To all the wonderful readers, I invite you to connect with me on my social media platforms –Denphra 507 on YouTube, Instagram, and all other channels. Please stay tuned for the release of the "IMPARABLE" EP, and thank you for your unwavering love and support!

Demphra's remarkable journey stands as a powerful testament to her extraordinary talent, unwavering resilience, and relentless dedication to her craft. From her groundbreaking contributions with La Factoría to her current bold and innovative solo reinvention, she has consistently defied expectations, shattered boundaries, and forged an unbreakable connection with audiences on a profoundly emotional level. Her fearless exploration of musical landscapes, exemplified by the fusion of urban and Mexican sounds in “Pa’ Curarme” and the highly anticipated "IMPARABLE" EP, not only showcases her remarkable artistic growth and evolution but also firmly solidifies her position as a true visionary and trailblazer in the realm of Latin music. As she continues to chart new territories and inspire generations, Demphra's enduring impact on the music industry and the hearts of her devoted fans remains an undeniable force.

By

Photo
| JC Denava

The Real Mamas of California

Broke & Tired Edition

With over two decades of hits under their belt and a loyal fanbase that spans continents, powerhouse Mexican American duo Ha-Ash, formed by sisters Hanna and Ashley, are in the midst of a triumphant world tour celebrating their new album HAASHVILLE —a project that merges their country roots with Latino pop. Ha-Ash’s musical DNA is as richly layered as their upbringing. Born in Lake Charles, Louisiana, and raised between there and Mexico, the duo’s identity was shaped by a vibrant bicultural experience—one where Southern soul met Latin charm. Their parents, avid fans of country music, raised them on a steady diet of country classics from country greats, but it was in Mexico where the sisters began translating those English-language ballads into Spanish and singing them with heart, crafting a sound that was uniquely theirs.

“We just try to be true to who we are at that moment.”.. - Hanna

As for HAASHVILLE , Hanna shares,

“We don’t try to limit ourselves. We just try to be true to who we are at that moment. And so this last album, HAASHVILLE, we did it in my house. We live in the South of the U.S., and being so close to nature, listening to more country, it naturally became a more country album. And so, we just try to stay true to who we are in that moment, knowing that we ’ re always changing.”

The album is packed with powerful vocal harmonies, emotionally rich lyrics, and a few surprising collaborations One standout is “Te Apuesto”, a track featuring María José that tells the story of a conversation between a woman and “the other woman. ” The album also features collaborations with Reik and Carlos Rivera, showcasing Ha-Ash’s ability to fuse different styles while staying true to their roots. But perhaps their standout song is their latest single “No Fue Lo Que Hiciste”, a gut-wrenching song about a love that fades away.

Ha-Ash’s latest single, No Fue Lo Que Hiciste , is a quietly devastating ballad that captures the slow unraveling of a relationship not marked by betrayal or dramatic explosions, but by the small things that stopped happening. It's the silence, the distance, the absence of effort that ultimately hurts the most.

For Ashley, the song is more than just another track on HAASHVILLE it’s a deeply personal reflection of her own heartbreak. Written in the aftermath of a painful breakup, the lyrics are raw, intimate, and unfiltered. When asked if performing something so emotionally charged can feel therapeutic, Ashley shares that it’s complicated: “It makes things easier… sometimes it makes things harder. It just depends. Whenever you see people living the same thing, and they're, and you see them crying, it kind of makes it easier, because you ' re you ' re like, ‘Okay, I'm not alone.’ But then sometimes, whenever you ' re missing, or you ' re feeling lonely, then it makes it hard. It's, it just depends on what mood you ' re in, or, you know, what you ' re living in your life.”

That emotional transparency is exactly what’s made No Fue Lo Que Hiciste resonate so deeply with fans

It’s not just a heartbreak song it’s a mirror for anyone who’s endured quiet goodbyes and unspoken endings. Ashley even admits she was hesitant to release it at first because it felt too raw to share.

“This song, I didn’t want to put it out for quite a while because it was just very hard for me to sing it,” she reveals . “But I finally decided to release it. And there’s been nothing but amazing support from my fans in, you know, in social media, and that makes me feel awesome. You know, to know that there's a lot of people going through the same thing.”

In the end, the song has become a kind of shared act of healing what Ashley describes as a form of trauma bonding between artist and listener It’s that vulnerability, delivered with honesty and grace, that continues to set Ha-Ash apart in a music landscape often dominated by surface-level storytelling. Ha-Ash’s current worldwide tour has been nothing short of a triumph, with sold-out venues and an outpouring of love from fans across the globe. The duo’s ability to connect with their audience on such a deep level is evident every night as they perform their heartfelt ballads and high-energy hits.

For Ha-Ash, the tour is more than just a series of performances it’s an opportunity to share their music, their stories, and their journey with fans who have supported them throughout the years.

Hanna reflects, “This tour has been such an amazing experience for us. Our last tour, we thought we had reached several of our records, and then this new tour came and blew us by surprise. Being able to go to new places, perform in theaters, and then return to stadiums… or even doing multiple dates in one city—it’s been incredible. The number of sold-out shows we ’ ve had has been mind-blowing for us. ”

This tour is particularly special because it marks a significant milestone in their career performing in cities that have never seen them live before and introducing their unique blend of country and Latin music to new audiences

As Ashley explains, “We keep expanding, expanding our territories. It’s the first time we ’ ve ever gone to Canada, and when we went for the first time, it was sold out that’s awesome. ” The tour has been a remarkable journey for Ha-Ash, setting personal records and selling out venues in cities they’ve never played before But beyond the milestones, it’s the connection with their fans that means the most Hanna shares, “We’re so lucky that what we love to do performing live is what we do best. "That's how we measure whether we ' re doing well or poorly, it's arriving at a concert and seeing that it's sold out, and seeing that people are singing our songs. For us, that's the most rewarding part of our job. Right now that we ' re in the middle of the tour, it's amazing to see the very positive response we ' re getting from our fans and from people in general."

The HAASHVILLE tour isn’t just about the music it’s about building connections, sharing experiences, and honoring the fans who’ve supported them for over two decades. Ha-Ash’s live performances continue to prove that their music is more than just sound; it’s an experience, a moment of healing and celebration for all.

Upcoming shows include stops in Denver on April 19 at the Paramount Theatre, Las Vegas on April 20 at the House of Blues, Vancouver on April 22 at the Orpheum Theatre, and several dates in Texas, including El Paso at the El Paso County Coliseum on May 16, Austin at the Moody Theater on May 17, and San Antonio at the Majestic Theatre the next day. Their highly anticipated performance in Inglewood, California, on May 11th is just around the corner, and they’re eager to continue spreading their music far and wide.

Whether you ' re a day-one fan looking for nostalgia or a newer fan excited to hear their evolving sound, Ha-Ash’s HAASHVILLE tour promises to deliver an unforgettable experience.

Weaving Tradition with Tomorrow: The Ascendant Artistry of Luis Fernando Araiza

In the vibrant landscape of Mexican music, Luis Fernando Araiza, 25, is a rising voice blending heritage and contemporary sounds. His journey began at 13, blossoming into a powerful artistic force. By 14, he composed his own songs, hinting at his deep musicality. His first solo composition at 16, "Estoy Enamorado," reflected young love: "It's about my experience with first love at a young age, " Araiza explains, "How I persevered what love should be like when you ' re a teenager."

Araiza’s diverse musical DNA stems from his parents' contrasting tastes His father favored the raw emotion of artists like Chalino Sánchez, while his mother loved the polished vocals of Luis Miguel. "Well my mom had more than just cayenne, " Araiza chuckles, "These artists were drastically different to the artists my father loved...their lifestyles were so different." This duality inspired him: "My inspiration on my mother's side is that all these artists are classically trained Vocalists; their technique is astounding. For my father's side, it's mostly the storytelling...that fascinated me. " His debut, “Soy Enamorado,” at 16, marked a start, teaching him about the digital shift in music. "It was my first album and I was so excited...I learned how digital everything was...Never would have thought that this would be the start of my career taking off."

With a music degree in hand, Araiza blends technical skill with artistry, now able to " see music in an abstract way. " "Before, music was just listening and playing what was taught to me, " he explains, "but now I am able to play with it...make it my own...So much work goes into one song most people never realize it."

He seamlessly mixes tradition with modern sounds, inspired by artists like Cuco and Peso Pluma: "They are the reason why I am able to mix my genres so well because they took a leap...and now they are some of the most recognized artists." He balances this by "never forgetting where I come from...To color the genre in a respectful way while still keeping it modern." Lyrically, he explores love and pain, like in Amor y Dolor: "I usually try to convey love...But if it's not love, I love to sing about pain and suffering...going from being super in love to pouring out my emotions." As a guitarist, he aims for "clean technique to extract different sounds using the timber of the guitar to portray the song ' s emotion " His online presence is significant: "I find it really important to connect with people, especially this day in age where everything is on the internet...connecting on my digital platforms...help me connect with my fans all over Central and South America."

Looking ahead, Araiza desires timelessness: "I want my music to be timeless...remembered as a household name. " With a new video for "Viuda Negra" and an eclectic album coming – "My next album will be the most eclectic of all my music. I want to push as many fusions as I can while still staying true to my roots," – Luis Fernando Araiza is a rising force, his blend of tradition and innovation marking a promising future in Mexican music.

TICKET 2.0

The Ticket Revolution: How Technology is Reshaping Live Music

The Future of Live Music Entry From NFTs to tiered access

The live music industry stands at a pivotal juncture, experiencing a significant resurgence in the wake of global events This renewed public appetite for shared experiences has translated into impressive growth in the concert and event promotion sector, with revenues reaching substantial figures and projections indicating continued expansion. (IBISWorld 2015) This robust market, however, is undergoing a profound transformation in how tickets are bought and sold, driven by technological advancements and a persistent struggle against the inefficiencies and inequities of the traditional ticketing system. The confluence of digital platforms and heightened consumer demand has created an environment ripe for innovation, yet also fraught with challenges ranging from pricing controversies to the enduring issue of ticket scalping.

Recent Trends and Innovations in Live Music Ticketing

The live music ticketing industry is witnessing a wave of innovation aimed at modernizing the ticket purchasing process, maximizing revenue, and addressing long-standing issues like fraud and scalping Among the most prominent trends are the rise of dynamic pricing, the implementation of verified fan programs, and the exploration of blockchain technology.

Dynamic Pricing: A Double-Edged Sword

Dynamic pricing has emerged as a significant trend in the concert industry, where ticket prices are no longer static but fluctuate in real-time based on the interplay of supply and demand. (Ticket Fairy 2025) This approach, which mirrors pricing strategies common in the airline and hotel industries, utilizes sophisticated algorithms to analyze a multitude of factors, including current demand, ticket availability, and external market conditions, to adjust prices accordingly (That Eric Alper)

Proponents of dynamic pricing argue that it offers a mechanism to optimize revenue for artists and promoters, ensuring they capture a fairer share of the profits generated by high-demand events (That Eric Alper) Furthermore, it is suggested that dynamic pricing can serve as an effective tool in the fight against ticket scalping by aligning initial ticket prices more closely with their true market value, thereby reducing the profit incentive for unauthorized resellers. (ACEI)

However, the implementation of dynamic pricing has been met with considerable criticism and has sparked heated debates among fans. (ACEI) Many fans express frustration over the unpredictable price spikes that can occur, often with little to no warning, making it difficult to plan and budget for concert attendance. The lack of transparency in how these pricing algorithms operate further exacerbates these concerns, leading to accusations of price gouging and a feeling among fans that they are being unfairly exploited. High-profile cases, such as those involving the Oasis reunion tour and concerts by Bruce Springsteen, have vividly illustrated the potential for dynamic pricing to generate negative press and alienate even the most dedicated fans (That Eric Alper) (Funflation 2025)

Verified Fan Programs:

Balancing Access and Exclusivity

In an effort to combat the pervasive issue of ticket bots and ensure that tickets for highly anticipated events reach genuine fans, many artists and ticketing platforms have adopted verified fan programs. (Ticket Fairy 2025) These programs typically involve a registration and verification process that aims to vet fans before they are granted access to pre-sales. (Consequence) Often, fans are required to create an account and register their interest in a particular tour or event, providing personal information such as their email address and phone number. (Consequence) Ticketing platforms then employ various methods to analyze these registrations, attempting to identify and filter out automated bots and individuals suspected of being ticket scalpers. (Consequence)

Ticketing platforms like Ticketmaster have reported significant success in blocking bots through the use of verified fan programs. (The Ticketing Business) Data suggests that these programs have led to a considerable reduction in the number of tickets sold through pre-sales that subsequently appear on the secondary market at inflated prices. (Time)

Despite these reported successes, verified fan programs have also faced criticism and have demonstrated certain limitations. (Consequence) Many fans express frustration with the lottery-based system often employed in these programs, where registration does not guarantee the receipt of an access code (Consequence) Highprofile ticketing events, such as the Taylor Swift Eras Tour, have demonstrated that even with the implementation of verified fan programs, systemic challenges and fan frustration can still arise (Time)

The Promise and Reality of Blockchain Ticketing

Blockchain technology has emerged as a potentially transformative solution for the live music ticketing industry, offering the promise of secure, transparent, and traceable ticket transactions. (Ticket Fairy 2025) Non-fungible tokens (NFTs) can be used to represent unique event tickets, providing a mechanism for tracking ownership, controlling resale prices, and even enabling artists to receive royalties from secondary market transactions (Web3 Music) Furthermore, smart contracts, self-executing agreements coded on the blockchain, can automate various aspects of the ticketing process, ensuring fair and transparent transactions, including validation, refunds, and payouts. (Web 3 Music) While the potential benefits of blockchain in ticketing are significant, widespread adoption is still in its early stages and faces several challenges. (Ticket Fairy 2025) Issues such as the transaction fees associated with some blockchain networks (often referred to as gas fees) and the scalability of these technologies to handle the high volume of ticket sales for major events remain key concerns. (Medium) Despite these challenges, several companies and events are beginning to explore and implement blockchain-based ticketing solutions. (Pollstar News) For instance, CM.com's acquisition of GUTS Tickets, a company specializing in blockchain ticketing, signals a growing interest in this technology within the industry (CM com) UEFA EURO 2020 utilized blockchain for ticket distribution to enhance security (TicMint), and the Coachella music festival explored NFT-based tickets. (TicMint)

Other Emerging Technologies

Beyond dynamic pricing, verified fan programs, and blockchain, other technological advancements are also shaping the live music ticketing landscape. Artificial intelligence [AI] and data analytics are playing an increasingly important role in the industry. (PR Newswire) AI algorithms can analyze vast amounts of data to detect suspicious purchasing patterns that may indicate bot activity, helping to combat fraud. (PR Newswire) Furthermore, data analytics enables ticketing companies and event organizers to gain deeper insights into consumer demographics

Contributors

Letter From The Editor

Dear Readers,

Thank you for reading the April issue of RYM Magazine; your support means a lot to us. This month, we spotlighted talented independent artists and explored significant changes in the music industry, including live events and ticketing. Special thanks to our cover stars, Ha*Ash, and the YouTube Theater team for their collaboration.

We also express our condolences for the recent nightclub collapse in the Dominican Republic, recognizing its impact on the music community.

Thank you for being part of the RYM Magazine community. We hope you enjoy this issue.

Sincerely,

-Vanessa

We extend our sincere gratitude to all the talented individuals and organizations who contributed their time, expertise, and passion to bring this month's issue of RYM Magazine to life Your dedication is invaluable

RYM Magazine Staff:

Director of Production: Bernardo Escobedo

Senior Staff Writer: Gustavo Martir M.A.

Creative Director: Isis Antonio

Staff Writer: Victorio Gomez

Staff Writer | Staff Photographer: JC Denava

Collaborative Contributors:

Ha*Ash:

Public Relations: 11:11 PR

Photography: Jennifer Pacheco Pochat

Additional Photography Contributor: Sony Music

Demphra:

Public Relations: MGV Haus

Luis Fernando Araiza:

Photography: Sebastian Olea

Additional Photography Source: Erika Santelices/Reuters

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