Montecruz Music

Tag: inspiration

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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:

  • Josh Ross & Akon: New Country Pop Hit Reviewed

    Josh Ross & Akon: New Country Pop Hit Reviewed

    Drunk Right Now (Na Na Na)Cover

    Drunk Right Now (Na Na Na) – Josh Ross, Akon

    Release Date: 2025
    Genre: Pop/Country
    Duration: 3:18
    Date of Review: July 21, 2025
    Reviewer: Rafael Montecruz

    “It’s been too long, since I’ve heard one of Akon’s songs. I thought he was gone, and I’d never hear from him again.”

    Akon was a pivotal star when I was growing up, so when I saw that he released this new country/fusion track, which is a reimagined version of his heartbreak classic,Right Now, I was instantly intrigued.

    From the very start, I was hooked. The blend of acoustic and electric guitars sets a raw, heartfelt tone, perfectly matched by Josh Ross’ gritty and powerful vocals. Then Akon comes in; smooth, melodic, and timeless. His delivery is a reminder of why he’s always been a musical prodigy. The duet feels effortless, like two friends trading stories over heartbreak.

    Keep the masterpieces coming, Akon.

    Listen now:

  • Runaway by Lucas Lutter: A Soulful Folk Journey

    Runaway by Lucas Lutter: A Soulful Folk Journey

    Runaway Cover

    Runaway – Lucas Lutter

    Release Date: 2025
    Genre: Singer-Songwriter / Folk
    Duration: 3:39
    Date of Review: June 5, 2025
    Reviewer: Rafael Montecruz

    “Warm vocals, beautiful writing, and a melody that stays with you.”

    From the very first note, Runaway pulled me in with a soft acoustic guitar and ambient echoes that worked together in harmony. I felt a sense of calm overcoming my person as I listened to this new tune. Then Lucas began to sing, and his voice hit with that rare singer-songwriter warmth, as if I were hearing a close friend open up about his life.

    The songwriting is exceptional, wrapped in a melody that’s both beautiful and intimate. I might’ve missed this hidden gem had Lucas not chosen to share it, and for that, I’m truly thankful.

    Listen now:

  • Chance Emerson’s All My Love: Emotional Singer-Songwriter Track

    Chance Emerson’s All My Love: Emotional Singer-Songwriter Track

    All My Love Cover

    All My Love – Chance Emerson

    Release Date: 2025
    Genre: Singer-Songwriter / Folk
    Duration: 3:44
    Date of Review: May 25, 2025
    Reviewer: Rafael Montecruz

    “A heartfelt acoustic gem that instantly draws you in.”

    All My Love opens with a lovely guitar melody, instantly paired with Emerson’s rich, gravelly vocals—full of emotion and sincerity. His storytelling is vivid and immersive, each line pulling you deeper into the song.

    This is one of those rare discoveries that feels like fate. I hadn’t heard of Chance Emerson before, but now he’s earned a spot on my playlists. A true gem I’ll have on repeat.

    Listen now:

  • Sebastián Yatra’s Disco Rayado: A Love Letter in Latin Pop

    Sebastián Yatra’s Disco Rayado: A Love Letter in Latin Pop

    Disco Rayado Cover

    Disco Rayado – Sebastián Yatra

    Release Date: 2024
    Genre: Latin Pop
    Duration: 2:31
    Date of Review: May 23, 2025
    Reviewer: Rafael Montecruz

    “A love letter with great rhythm.”

    Yatra’s Disco Rayado begins with gentle strums of the guitar and tender heartfelt vocals, que paran corto de enamorarte — a signature style that I’ve come to love and appreciate. But at around 0:31, it lifts unexpectedly into an upbeat rhythm, blending emotional storytelling with sonic energy.

    The mix is crisp, the balance is perfect — letting Yatra’s vocals shine. It’s catchy, well-crafted, and endlessly re-listenable. A song you don’t just hear — you feel.

    Listen now:

  • Balancing What Matters

    Balancing What Matters

    How do you balance work and home life?

    I wish I could say I balance work and home life with ease, but the truth is, I had to make sacrifices and adjustments throughout the years.

    I don’t get as much sleep or downtime as I’d like, and I’ve cut back significantly on things like watching tv or playing games.

    It’s not always easy but I do it because I need to work, I’m not ready to let go of my music, and my family is everything to me.

    I just try to stay focused on what’s most important everyday.