Regional Mexican artist Chiquis is set to release her first-ever NFT in partnership with crypto gaming company AnRKey X, Billboard has learned.
The digital NFT (non-fungible token), a one-of-a-kind cryptographic token that exists on a blockchain, will come in the form of a gaming card inspired by her “Spiritual Gangsta” persona, which will be able to be used in AnRKey X’s game Battle Wave 2323 – a blend of cyberpunk, hip-hop and Marvel universe-inspired game characters.
“‘Spiritual Gangsta’ is in my Instagram bio – part Chiquis and part Janney,” the Latin Grammy-winning artist told Billboard. “I’ve always seen [that] character as an alter ego and thought that it would even be perfect for a video game character!”
Only a handful of Latin acts, such as Ozuna and Rudy Mancuso, have experimented with this once-considered niche method of cryptocurrency, and Chiquis becomes the first female Latin act to release her very own digital collectible.
“It is so exciting to be on the forefront of new technology and bring my fans and followers along for the ride,” the “Anímate y Verás” singer says. “There is so such a vast space for incredibly creative and innovative ideas in the NFT and crypto world. You all know me as an artist, TV personality, philanthropist and business woman so I see there are big possibilities ahead in this sector.”
Involved in the NFT creating process from beginning to end, Chiquis says that the fun part was collaborating with AnRKey X to design the digital token. The most challenging? Understanding the technology behind NFTs. “But I was with a team that aligned with my vision for creating NFT products. AnRKey X has a long-term vision of releasing NFTs with a strategy behind it.”
The “Spiritual Gangsta” inspired gaming card is just the beginning of the partnership. The second release will feature a multi-set NFT collection of five “Gems” that are creatively developed images incorporating her most famous inspirational and motivational life quotes that Chiquis herself recorded.
Chiquis’ NFT gaming card is set to go on sale Friday, May 21 at 11 a.m. ET on www.anrkeyx.io.celebrityNFTs. The multi-set “Gems” collection will go on sale soon after the “Spiritual Gangsta” token.
