Montecruz Music

Author: Rafael Montecruz

  • December 2025 Song of the Month: Don’t You Want It? by Winnie Ama

    December 2025 Song of the Month: Don’t You Want It? by Winnie Ama

    Montecruz Music’s Featured Song of the Month

    A song lived. A story felt. A voice that stays, long after the last note. And the award goes to…drumroll please…

    December 2025: Don’t You Want It?: Winnie Ama

    Behind the Song

    Happy Holidays, music lovers! This month’s Montecruz Music Song of the Month goes to Winnie Ama’s opening track from her newest album (DEKA), Don’t You Want It?

    Winnie absolutely wowed me with this one. Don’t You Want It? is a vibrant fusion of funk and modern-day pop, tied together by Winnie’s soulful vocals. From the very first note, the song had me hooked, with its sensual and seductive tone that had me nodding along to the rhythm.

    If you’ve made it this far, I truly appreciate you. Thank you for all your love and support throughout this incredible year. Now, do yourself a favor and treat yourself to the rest of her wonderful album.

    “I don’t wanna wait another minute for us. Everything about you says that we should meet up.”

    🎧 Listen Now

    Come back next month for a new featured song. Got a track you think deserves the spotlight? Email us.

  • Kiss Me: NOCHVNCE – November Song Spotlight

    Kiss Me: NOCHVNCE – November Song Spotlight

    Montecruz Music’s Featured Song of the Month

    A song lived. A story felt. A voice that stays, long after the last note. And the award goes to…drumroll please…

    November 2025: Kiss Me: NOCHVNCE

    Behind the Song

    I first stumbled onto NOCHVNCE when they wowed me with their pop/funk gem,You. Now, this dynamic duo is back at it again with their new release, Kiss Me. Shaun Charlton’s instrumentation transports you straight into the golden age of disco, while Callum Long’s super smooth and likeable vocals reel you in and don’t let go.

    Kiss Me is a breath of fresh air, full of groove, nostalgia, and a whole lot of groundbreaking innovation. It’s no surprise that Kiss Me has danced its way through the neon lights all the way to the top of my 2025 Next Gen Vibes playlist. Break out your bell-bottoms, loosen up those hips, and come electric slide with me on this one.

    “Kiss me, like the world’s on pause tonight. Like we’re trapped in the neon lights.”

    🎧 Listen Now

    Come back next month for a new featured song. Got a track you think deserves the spotlight? Email us.

  • Madrugada: A Cinematic Journey in Portuguese Pop Music

    Madrugada: A Cinematic Journey in Portuguese Pop Music

    Madrugada (Portuguese Version) cover art

    Madrugada (Portuguese Version) — Rafael Montecruz feat. Evran de Almeida

    Release Date: October 24, 2025
    Genre: Pop
    Duration: 4:02
    ISRC: usl4r2560801  •  UPC: 199800718625

    “Madrugada… As horas cinzas em que duas almas perdidas se entrelaçam. Mas a nossa história… continua.”

    “(Translated) Madrugada… The gray hours when two lost souls intertwine. Yet our story… continues.”

    Madrugada (Portuguese Version) is a cinematic, Gipsy-inspired story told through song. It marks Montecruz’s first-ever Portuguese release; his way of saying thank you to the Portuguese fans who connected with him through his website and social media. Inspired by his late grandfather’s storytelling, Montecruz weaves emotion, melody, and memory into a tale that transcends language and culture.

    Musically, Madrugada blends the passion of flamenco guitars with the drive of modern pop production. Acoustic and electric guitars take center stage, supported by a dynamic rhythm section of drums, subtle strings, and atmospheric synths. All of this is tied together by the enigmatic vocal performance of Evran de Almeida. Madrugada is meant to be unlike anything you’ve ever heard before.

    Favorite quote:

    “Dramatic melodies combine with fiery rhythms on this track, which features a dynamic arrangement that blends traditional flamenco with modern pop and a stirring performance from guest vocalist Evran de Almeida.” — Steven Azami
    If you enjoy the song, add it to your playlist today. Let’s keep that momentum going! Thank you for listening.

    Rafael Montecruz

    Singer • Songwriter • Storyteller

    Listen now:

  • October 2025 Featured Song: Revelation by Nick Howe

    October 2025 Featured Song: Revelation by Nick Howe

    Montecruz Music’s Featured Song of the Month

    A song lived. A story felt. A voice that stays, long after the last note. And the award goes to…drumroll please…

    October 2025: Revelation: Nick Howe

    Behind the Song

    Revelation is one of the newest singles from singer-songwriter Nick Howe, which has quickly found its way to the top of my playlist 2025 Next Gen Vibes. Revelation is a powerful and emotional track that begins with a calm, reflective tone, before building in intensity.

    Through its lyrics and instrumentation, it tells the story of a man who is standing at the edge, both mentally and physically. The lyrics are well-crafted and deeply relatable, while the instrumentation perfectly complements the emotional weight of the message in the vocals. Excellent work, Nick. Keep pushing those limits.

    “I will learn as I keep falling. Pull me to the edge again.”

    🎧 Listen Now

    Come back next month for a new featured song. Got a track you think deserves the spotlight? Email us.

  • Q&A: My Favorite Hobby & Pastime

    Q&A: My Favorite Hobby & Pastime

    What is your favorite hobby or pastime?

    One of my favorite hobbies is writing. I’ve always enjoyed creating songs and stories in my free time. I’ve always seen writing as a way for me to travel to another world as a different person or character. It helps me step outside my comfort zone and change my scenery a bit, even if I’m just sitting in my studio. I even keep a couple of ink pens and fancy notepads that I would use specifically for my creative writing.

    Another pastime I really enjoy is trying out different restaurants with my family. I love discovering new types of cuisines and finding those hidden gems that I want to keep returning to. If I hadn’t chosen the path I’m on now, I probably would’ve become a chef. It was something that I studied for in school and truly enjoyed.

  • Hoy: A Vibrant Reimagining of a Latin Classic

    Hoy: A Vibrant Reimagining of a Latin Classic

    Hoy Cover

    Hoy – Mindblow, Briana Timari, OZLEMEK, Centyes

    Release Date: 2025
    Genre: Latin Pop/EDM
    Duration: 2:36
    Date of Review: September 26, 2025
    Reviewer: Rafael Montecruz

    “A new take on a Latin classic. You won’t want to miss this one!”

    Hoy, originally popularized by Gloria Estefan and written by Peru’s legendary songwriter Gian Marco, has long been a Latin Pop classic. Now, Mindblow, OZLEMEK & Centyes breathe new life into the hit with a vibrant reimagining, featuring the captivating vocals of Briana Timari.

    From the very first note, Timari’s voice immediately draws you in. The synth pads and synths set up the atmosphere, while the percussion and crisp shakers inject the track with a pulsing Latin rhythm. The layered production adds depth and a certain texture, which makes you want to keep listening to see where the track will take you.

    This reimagined version of Hoy is a song of pure energy. It’ll have you moving on the dance floor or just nodding along in your seat. A super fun update to an already exceptional song. Hoy is a showcase of pure talent you can feel.

    Listen now:

  • September 2025 Featured Song: One More Time by T.Rafe

    September 2025 Featured Song: One More Time by T.Rafe

    Montecruz Music’s Featured Song of the Month

    A song lived. A story felt. A voice that stays, long after the last note. And the award goes to…drumroll please…

    September 2025: One more time: T.Rafe

    Behind the Song

    One more time has held a special place at the top of my playlist, Indie Songs You Need to Hear, for one simple reason; it’s a stunningly beautiful track. While it may not have the big-budget polish of mainstream hits, it shines in ways that matter far more. The writing is exceptional, drawing you into a lyrical journey that stays with you long after the final note. The instrumentation is equally moving, with the piano often taking center stage. The strings and guitar add a gentle warmth, while the drums provide that build-up you didn’t know you were waiting for. T. Rafe’s tender, heartfelt vocals tie it all together, closing the piece with genuine emotion. Every lyric and every piano note feels like medicine for the soul. Do yourself a favor and listen to this track today.

    “Would you stay beside me, would you say you want me, like the worlds colliding as you hold me tightly.”

    🎧 Listen Now

    Come back next month for a new featured song. Got a track you think deserves the spotlight? Email us.

  • Review: Cole Rosen’s Gripping New Single ‘Dead To Me’

    Review: Cole Rosen’s Gripping New Single ‘Dead To Me’

    Dead To Me Cover

    Dead To Me – Cole Rosen

    Release Date: 2025
    Genre: Rock
    Duration: 2:22
    Date of Review: August 31, 2025
    Reviewer: Rafael Montecruz

    “Memorable, heartbreak rock anthem”

    Cole Rosen’s newest single, Dead To Me, is a masterpiece you won’t want to miss. The grit of the rock-infused electric guitars, the steady pulse of the drums, and a tight bassline frame Rosen’s distinctive vocal performance. Subtle vocal effects add mystique without dulling the edge.

    The lyrics trace the final moments of a fractured relationship, the arrangement telling the story; as the verses tighten with tension, the choruses burst open, and a searing guitar solo around 1:55 lets the heartache speak for itself. You can feel every line sung in this heartbreak-rock tour de force. With a runtime of 2:22, Dead To Me is memorable, to-the-point, and sure to reach the top of many rock-inspired playlists.

    Listen now:

  • Someday (Reimagined): A New Take on Rafael Montecruz’s Hit

    Someday (Reimagined): A New Take on Rafael Montecruz’s Hit

    Someday (Reimagined) cover art

    Someday (Reimagined) — Rafael Montecruz feat. Abraham Armell

    Release Date: July 25, 2025
    Genre: Pop
    Duration: 2:31
    ISRC: USHM92542845  •  UPC: 199800115226

    “I hear your voice, echoing through my mind.”

    Someday (Reimagined) breathes new life into Montecruz’s 2024 release (Someday), transforming it into a more upbeat production. This version lives in that hazy place between dreaming and waking, where reality blurs and imagination takes over.

    Layers of shimmering synths, funk-infused guitars, and haunting backup vocals meant to feel like echoes in your imagination pull you deeper into that dream realm. Beneath its upbeat groove lies the heart of a ballad, the kind that makes you want to dance with tears in your eyes.

    What people are saying:

    “Quite possibly his catchiest and most euphoric, thought provoking single to date.” — Stereo Stickman
    “Excellent production, solid mix. Fantastic atmosphere, and a restrained energy that runs throughout. Gorgeous intro, nice synth selections.” — Steven Azami
    If you enjoy the song, add it to your playlist today. Let’s keep that momentum going! Thank you for listening.

    Rafael Montecruz

    Singer • Songwriter • Storyteller

    Listen now:

  • tension by Haiden Henderson

    tension by Haiden Henderson

    Montecruz Music’s Featured Song of the Month

    A song lived. A story felt. A voice that stays, long after the last note. And the award goes to…drumroll please…

    August 2025: tension: Haiden Henderson

    Behind the Song

    Haiden Henderson’s newest track, Tension, is one that you won’t want to miss. It’s a bittersweet clash of heartbreaking lyrics and an infectious, upbeat melody. The production is excellent, blending emotional vocals with dynamic rock elements for a sound that you won’t soon forget. If this track hooks you, then the rest of the Tension album is a must-hear.

    “You’re so cold, never thought I’d have to watch you go. Best friend to a lover to a ghost.”

    🎧 Listen Now

    Come back next month for a new featured song. Got a track you think deserves the spotlight? Email us.