Today we’d like to introduce you to Sol Ruiz
Hi Sol, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I’m Sol Ruiz, a Cuban American, Grammy-nominated recording artist, producer, DJ, and multi-instrumentalist. My journey in music has been a thrilling ride, filled with a fusion of genres and innovative storytelling that reflects the rich tapestry of my cultural roots. Performing in my native Spanglish, I’ve had the privilege of performing for audiences worldwide. Born and raised in Miami, Florida, my multicultural heritage deeply inspires my work, leading me to blend Latin rhythms with rock, Afro-Cuban, and electronic elements into a unique sound I call “Epic Afro-Tronic Fusion.”
Music has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember. My mother, a music teacher, and my father, a passionate record collector and music aficionado, filled our home with great music. Growing up in such a musical environment, I always felt that creating and performing was my purpose. By the time I was in elementary school, I knew deep down that I was destined to be an artist. This passion led me to pursue the arts more seriously, and I attended New World School of the Arts. Later, I expanded my studies at FIU Music School, where I delved into classical opera performance and philosophy, grounding my musical journey in both technical skill and a deeper understanding of the world around me.
Over the years, I’ve released six albums under various names, including Picadillo and Sol and The Tribu, and I’ve toured globally, sharing my music with diverse audiences. My work often explores themes of identity, resilience, and social justice—core elements that reflect my commitment to using art as a tool for positive change.
My most recent project, “Positive Vibration Nation,” is a rock ‘guaguanco’ opera that has been a true labor of love. It was funded by The Knight Foundation, NPN, National Endowment for the Arts, NALAC, and Miami-Dade County Department of Cultural Affairs, in collaboration with Beth Morrison Projects and Miami Light Project. The opera premiered in April 2024 at the Miami Theatre Center, performed by my band, Sol and The Tribu, proud ambassadors of the “New Miami Sound.”
Beyond my musical achievements, I’m deeply passionate about arts education and community engagement. I frequently conduct workshops and participate in outreach programs, aiming to inspire the next generation of artists to find their voices and pursue their passions.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
In music, like in any art form, the journey is one of constant creativity and reinvention. You’re always finding new ways to express your image and message, which is both challenging and deeply fulfilling. For me, it’s a wonderful struggle, one I wouldn’t trade for anything in the world. The music industry is full of ups and downs, and there are moments of heartbreak that test your resilience. But through it all, I keep a positive attitude and stay focused on moving forward, #Palante.
This is a powerful time for women to shine in every aspect of life. Even when the path is tough, we’ve got to push through and fulfill our purpose, whatever that may be.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
As a recording artist, producer, DJ, and multi-instrumentalist, my passion is creating music that’s unmistakably my own. Everyone sees the world differently, and music is my way of expressing that unique perspective. What I’m most proud of is carving out my own path in an industry often filled with inauthenticity. I’ve stayed true to myself, remaining authentic in everything I do. My specialty is simply being myself, which comes through in the music I create, a fusion of sounds and influences drawn from my experiences around the world and at home in Miami. That’s what I believe sets me apart, my commitment to staying true to my art and expressing my vision in a way that’s genuine.
Beyond this, I’m incredibly proud of my latest work, Positive Vibration Nation. This project is my way of modernizing and diversifying the opera genre, blending Caribbean rhythms like Guaguancó, Reggae, Cumbia, Son, and Merengue. With an all-LatinX cast, and as a person of color myself, we’re representing our roots and beliefs through art, bringing diversity to spaces and audiences that have traditionally been exclusive. Our goal is to inspire people with a positive message and to tour globally, preserving Caribbean cultural identity and Miami’s rich history.
I take pride in enriching communities with the vibrant sounds of Miami and fostering a deeper connection to my roots, reflecting the Magic City and its unique cultural blend in everything I create.
What does success mean to you?
Success shouldn’t change who you are or how you approach life. Whether you’re riding high or facing challenges, staying true to yourself is what really matters. Success can take many forms, sometimes it’s as simple as setting a goal and achieving it, whether that’s going for a 30 min. run and finishing it, or even just taking out the trash. It could be as grand as climbing Mount Everest or as ambitious as taking your music to outer space.
For a lot of people, success is measured by money, but we all know that money alone doesn’t bring happiness, and happiness doesn’t always equal success. Success can also mean learning something new, bringing to life an idea that’s been in your mind for a while, or letting go of fear. It’s like standing at the edge of a cliff above a beautiful blue sea and deciding to take the leap. Every day, there are small successes to celebrate, and then there are the bigger dreams. I’m someone who usually sets big goals, and no matter how winding the path, I find my way there. My goals are always with me, guiding me in everything I do. Every day, I take steps—sometimes small, sometimes bold—that bring me closer to achieving them. Just like Bob says, “baby steps”.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z0FMqVG8d_c
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/solruizofficial
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCU2amMMIVYhwCVHYWO3JDUQ
Image Credits
Alfredo Buenano, Michael Campina, Dev Knight
