credit: Katiria Duque
Principe Q at Mala Fama
Svani Quintanilla, known by his stage name Principe Q, is the visionary behind Screwmbia—a modern twist on cumbia that blends its signature rhythms with trap drums and slowed-down beats. He pioneered this genre alongside DJ King Louie as part of the duo Royal Highness. Honoring his family’s musical legacy, he continues the innovation once championed by his aunt, Selena Quintanilla-Pérez, in the ’80s and ’90s.
Following in the footsteps of his father, A.B. Quintanilla III, Principe Q has dedicated himself to producing and shaping fresh sounds for rising artists. Since adopting his moniker in 2012, he has performed as a DJ across the country, contributing to Houston’s flourishing cumbia scene as part of the Bombon collective. His work with Royal Highness led to performances at major festivals in Mexico, including Ceremonia and EDC Mexico. In recent years, he has graced the lineups of renowned events like Bonnaroo, Boiler Room, and EDC Orlando, cementing his place as a key force in the evolution of modern cumbia.
Programming descriptions are generated by participants and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of SXSW.