Humberto Leon Guides Katseye: A New Global Girl Group

Humberto Leon is leading a new global girl group called Katseye, formed through the YouTube competition show «The Debut: Dream Academy.» This show brought together 20 young women from around the world, ultimately selecting six members for the group. Katseye’s members represent diverse cultural backgrounds, including Cuban American, Indian, Ghanaian, Swiss, Italian, Cantonese, Singaporean, Filipina, and Korean.

Katseye’s music combines glossy Gen Z hyper pop with elements of pop and R&B. The group has already achieved significant streaming success with their first release, «Debut,» and their latest song, «Touch.» Their performances are supported by high-concept music videos that showcase rigorous K-Pop choreography, all directed by Leon.

Humberto Leon is known in the fashion industry as the co-founder of the influential boutique Opening Ceremony and former co-creative director of Kenzo. Recently, Leon has transitioned into the music industry, initially serving as an evaluator and creative director for the «Dream Academy» competition.

Leon focuses on shaping Katseye’s visual identity and individual styles while drawing from the unique backgrounds of each member. He believes in educating the group about fashion history, emphasizing that their current styles are rooted in cultural significance.

During one of the photoshoots, Leon demonstrates a hands-on approach, providing personal guidance to each member about their outfits and appearances. Leon’s ability to connect with the young women, while establishing a trusting and nurturing relationship, reinforces their creativity and confidence.

Leon recalls his own upbringing, where he was influenced by his mother’s strong presence and his sisters. This experience has contributed to his understanding of the nuances of young womanhood and shaped his creative direction for Katseye.

As Katseye continues to gain popularity, Leon emphasizes that the group’s structure and individual identities are not simplistic. Each member possesses unique attributes and styles, which Leon integrates into their overall narrative.

The excitement surrounding Katseye also extends to upcoming performances, including a scheduled appearance on «Good Morning America.» This opportunity signifies the potential for the group to cement their place in the global music scene.