How Two Basque Sisters Became Spain's Most Influential Social Media Duo
When twin sisters from a small Basque town decided to post a cover of One Direction's "Kiss You" on YouTube back in 2013, they probably never imagined it would launch them into becoming Spain's most influential TikTok duo. Aitana and Paula Etxeberria, better known as Twin Melody, have built an empire that spans from their humble beginnings in Ordizia, Gipuzkoa, to commanding over 18 million followers on TikTok alone.
**Musical Roots Run Deep**
The 27-year-old twins didn't stumble into entertainment by accident. Their journey began at age 8 when they enrolled in Musika Eskola, their local music school, where they learned music theory before branching into their respective instruments. Paula gravitated toward piano while Aitana chose the txistu, a traditional Basque flute that hints at their strong cultural roots. This early musical foundation would prove crucial as they evolved from local talent show winners to international social media stars. Their first major breakthrough came in 2014 when they won "A ze banda," a Basque television singing competition that opened doors to bigger opportunities.
**From YouTube Covers to TikTok Royalty**
What sets Twin Melody apart in the crowded social media landscape isn't just their musical talentβit's their ability to blend entertainment formats seamlessly. Their TikTok content ranges from dance challenges and lip-sync videos to original musical snippets, all delivered with an infectious energy that keeps millions coming back for more. Unlike many creators who stumble into viral fame, the Etxeberria sisters have maintained consistency in their content quality while adapting to platform trends. Their collaborative approach, where both sisters appear in most videos, creates a dynamic that's both entertaining and authentic.
**Breaking Into Mainstream Entertainment**
The twins' social media success opened doors to traditional entertainment that many creators only dream of accessing. They've appeared on major Spanish television programs including "El Hormiguero," where they taught TikTok choreographies to audiences unfamiliar with the platform. Their acting chops were showcased in Disney Channel's teen series "BIA," and they've graced the stage of "La Voz," Spain's version of The Voice. Perhaps most notably, they represented their musical ambitions at Benidorm Fest 2023, finishing eighth with their song "Sayonara"βa respectable showing that demonstrated their serious artistic aspirations beyond social media fame.
**The Twin Melody Effect**
What makes Twin Melody particularly fascinating is how they've managed to maintain their Basque identity while achieving international recognition. They've signed with Sony Music Entertainment Spain, releasing tracks like "No soy tuya" in 2021, proving that TikTok fame can translate into legitimate music industry success. Their influence extends beyond entertainment; they've become cultural ambassadors for the Basque region, introducing their traditional music background to a global audience. As they continue evolving their brand, the Etxeberria sisters represent a new generation of creators who refuse to be confined to a single platform or medium, constantly pushing boundaries while staying true to their roots.