Montecruz Music

Category: Personal Stories

  • 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:

  • 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:

  • The light that guided me

    The light that guided me

    Share a story about someone who had a positive impact on your life.

    One person who had a profoundly positive impact on my life is my mom. Growing up, it was always just the two of us, and through every challenge, I watched her work tirelessly, lifting others with her kindness and never asking for anything in return. 

    She’s been one of my greatest inspirations, the one who believed in me even when I struggled to believe in myself. Because of her, I came to realize that some dreams are worth fighting for. 

  • One for the road

    One for the road

    Have you ever broken a bone?

    Unfortunately, yes. I broke my knuckle bone during school. One day I came to learn that the bones in my knuckles were not stronger than the bones in the other guy’s hip. That day after my mom had to leave work to come get me from the office, we rode the Muni bus to the doctor’s office. She was a little upset with me to say the least. The doctor had to insert a small titanium plate to repair my broken knuckle, a plate which I still have to this day.