Born on the shores of Lake Atitlán, Guatemala, Choca Blues blends raw blues tradition with soaring melodies and a contagious love for music. Their story is one of resilience, transformation and the magic that happens when international musicians come together.
For lead vocalist and co-founder Dieneke, originally from the Netherlands, the band marked a rebirth. After burning out in the Dutch music scene, she stopped singing for seven years—until Guatemala reignited her passion. Together with Carlos Funk, whose guitar work spans resonator, acoustic and electric, Choca Blues began to take shape in 2021.
The band found its heartbeat when Whitney Petty (Thunderpussy) joined on drums, producing and arranging much of their debut album, The Wind. With the title track passing 19,000 streams, the record helped introduce Choca Blues to a wider audience. In late 2024, bassist Carol “The Bounce” joined the band, adding the depth and groove of her upright and custom electric bass to their sound.
Since then, Choca Blues has continued to evolve. Their second album, The Way We Roll, is now available on all major streaming platforms, carrying their blues roots into a new collection of songs shaped by the band’s own sound, experiences and chemistry.
And they’re not slowing down. Choca Blues is already working on new music, with a third EP planned for release toward the end of 2026.
Their music tells stories of resilience, joy and connection, rooted in the blues, but never afraid to wander beyond it. For Choca Blues, it’s not just about the songs or where they might lead. It’s about the people, places and music encountered along the way.
After all, the journey matters more than the destination.
