Ninety One (also stylized as “91”, Kazakh-Latin transliteration — Toqsan Bir) is a Kazakh boy band that emerged on the music scene in the mid-2010s. The group became a pioneer of the Q-pop (Qazaq-pop) genre — a new wave of pop music in Kazakhstan that blends Western and Asian pop formats with native linguistic and cultural elements.
Formation and Early Years
The band was formed in 2014 through the “K-Top Idols” project — a competition aimed at creating Kazakhstan’s first idol group. The initial lineup consisted of the project’s winners and newly selected members. In 2015, under the name Ninety One, the group officially debuted with their first single “Айыптама” (“Don’t Blame”) on September 1, which immediately gained major public attention and topped Kazakh charts for weeks.
The group’s name — Ninety One (91) — holds symbolic meaning: a reference to 1991, the year Kazakhstan gained independence. It represents freedom, renewal, and the birth of a new musical language.
Style, Mission, and Music
The musical style of Ninety One is a hybrid of pop melodies, rap verses, K-pop elements, dance choreography, and lyrics in the Kazakh language. They were among the first to move away from the exclusively Russian- or English-language formats, choosing instead to highlight Kazakh identity with a modern sound and visual aesthetic as an integral part of their artistry.
Their bold image — dyed hair, makeup, and expressive stage fashion — initially provoked controversy and backlash among conservative audiences. Over time, however, it became a defining part of their brand and a symbol of youth culture and individuality in modern Kazakhstan.
Breakthrough and Milestones
Following their debut, the group rapidly gained popularity among young audiences. Their early concerts and tours expanded their fanbase nationwide. Despite success, Ninety One faced public pressure and even aggression from conservative groups who accused them of “defying traditions.” This conflict only strengthened their cultural significance and turned them into a symbol of artistic freedom.
In the following years, the band continued to release mini-albums and studio works, achieving widespread influence across Kazakhstan’s pop scene. Ninety One evolved into more than just a musical group — they became a voice of a new generation, representing youth identity, progress, and cultural modernization.
Key Releases and Achievements
Among their notable works are the debut mini-album “Айыптама” (2015), the studio album “Qarangy Zharyq” (2017), and singles like “Қалай қарайсың?”, “Su Asty”, “Mooz”, and “Boyman.” The band also expanded internationally, participating in cross-cultural collaborations and Asian pop projects.
Influence and Cultural Significance
Ninety One did more than innovate musically — they helped popularize the Kazakh language and culture among younger audiences, proving that one can be both modern and authentically Kazakh. Their work symbolizes a cultural shift — from traditionalism to global openness, from passive consumption to self-expression.
The group also served as a catalyst for the Q-pop genre, inspiring a new generation of Kazakh artists to create in their native language while embracing contemporary styles and aesthetics.
Interesting Facts
- The group’s name directly references the year 1991 — Kazakhstan’s year of independence.
- Member Ace trained in a South Korean agency, drawing influence from K-pop production and performance styles.
- Despite early backlash and even canceled concerts, Ninety One persevered and built a strong, enduring brand.
- For many fans, Ninety One became the first “homegrown idol group,” inspiring the fan community known as Eaglez.
- Their songs often mix Kazakh lyrics with Latin script, emphasizing their global and modern identity.
Conclusion
Ninety One stands as a defining phenomenon in contemporary Kazakh music — a bridge between generations, a symbol of youth, and proof that it is possible to be modern and national at the same time. Their journey demonstrates how a new generation can speak in its own voice, stay true to its roots, and still be heard across the world.
