Marisol Flores

Photo by Dave Stabley Photografx

The Beginning of a Career

When did you first get into music?

Since a noticeably young age I loved to sing and dance. My mom noticed my talent and put me in Folklorico dancing. My first performance was when I was seven years old. However, I gravitated toward singing and slowly began to focus on my vocals. Initially my mom asked a cousin of mine to instruct me in singing lessons but unfortunately, she said no and at age seven I started taking singing and guitar lessons with Mr. Raymond Gallegos.

Photo by David Moreno

Who or What inspired you to pursue a career in music?

My first favorite singer was Gloria Estefan, I fell in love with Miami Sound Machine. I would listen to Gloria Estefan cassettes, often with headphones on, always singing along. My favorite song was “The Rhythm is Going to Get You.” Later I began to fall in love with Selena’s style of dance and music. The beauty of Selena’s performance very much inspired me to pursue music.

How would you describe the music that you create?

It is a blend of Latin Fusion with a Caribbean and Mexican twist. I love all Spanish genres of music and am influenced by Latino music.

How has your music evolved since you first began playing?

I now focus on more of the Cumbia style. Also, songs that are deep felt and relate to people’s true-life stories inspire me greatly. That humanistic aspect of music evolved from initially just fallowing the beats and melodies of songs.

I’m sure you have shared the stage with a lot of talented artists/celebrities along the way. Would you share 1 or 2 of your favorite stories with us?

I got to open for the Los Kumbia Kings at the House of Blues in Houston, Texas. I also performed with them in my hometown of Albuquerque, New Mexico at the Legends Theater inside Route 66 Casino. I was elated and honored to perform with Selena’s brother Abe Quintanilla. Additionally, I felt like my state supported me and my music proceeding these performances.

If you were forced to choose only one, which emotion, more than any other drives you to stay in this tough business? Is it joy, anger, desire, passion or pride and why?

Passion gives me my drive with respect to music because nothing in this world is worth it unless it is accomplished with hard work. Passion gives me the drive to work hard to accomplish my goals in music. Also, when people tell me no, I want it more.

Which ingredient do you think makes you special and unique as a performing artist in an industry overflowing with new faces and ideas?

I believe in the songs I sing, and the music I create becomes a part of me. Music is my existence. I think that shows in the music I create and in my performances.

What has been your biggest challenge as a musician/singer-songwriter? Have you been able to overcome that challenge? If so, how?

Being a woman in this industry is hard because in many cases people want to take advantage of you and don’t take you seriously when you are a women in this industry. However, I have a great support system of colleagues, friends and family and I come from a long line of strong women.

Photo by Jonathan Wooden

Photo by Rowena Cruz Alvertrio

Photo by Dave Stabley Photografx

Photo by ESP

A common phrase in the industry is, “you must suffer for your art.” Do you agree with this statement? If so, how have you suffered for your art?

Yes, I agree because this industry is hard, and people often tell you “no.” One must work hard to rise in this competitive industry. Rejection can cause great suffering but with it comes great opportunities for learning and growth.

How do you feel the internet has impacted the music business?

When I was a kid, people would buy CDs and cassettes when a new album came out. With the internet today and social media, people now have immediate access to music. This has also created avenues for artists to create and share music in a massive way, without a record label. These advancements have had positive implications for music today.

If you could change anything about the music industry. What would it be?

I enjoy the competitive nature of the music industry however sometimes the jealous nature of some competitors can be confused as simply competitiveness. There is room for all artists to create music without direct insults on a personal level. With that said I always welcome constructive criticism.

Tell us about your experience on Estrella TV’s, “Tengo Talento Mucho Talento”?

I went in with a confident mindset, passion and the song flowed from my heart. I did not expect to receive a no from one of the judges and I was hoping to have a constructive explanation as to why I received the no, but I am extremely happy I passed to the next level and thank all the judges for their insights. I am working hard to win over the judge that said no and receive four yeses next time around.

What are the 5 albums that have helped make you the person you are today? And why?

Gloria Estefan’s “Me Tierra,” Ana Gabriel’s “De Masado Tarde,” Alejandro Fernández’s “Resumen del Disco,” Lila Downs,’ “La Sandunga” and Selena ‘s “Entre A Mi Mundo.” All these albums have inspired me and have changed my life. These albums have molded my music style as well.

Tell us about your current project. Are you working on new music? An EP or Album?

I am working on an album with my friend Diandre Aragon. It is innovative. It has a Cumbia, Reggaeton and Modern Dance feel. The album release unfortunatlly is yet to be announced, but I am supper excited about its release and will inform my audience as soon as we know the date it will be available.

What is next for you?

I am constantly working on making my dreams a reality. I am working with photographers and many magazines on modeling, I am constantly working on my singing and am working on hair design. In fact, I am starting my own business alongside my cousin, Shirly Cruz-Abbasi called Hair by Marisol. Above all, my main dream is to help make my kids dreams come true.

How can fans-to-be gain access to your music?

I am working on a website currently, but right now find me on Facebook: Marisol Flores and Instagram: @solflorymar

Photo by Sarah Martinez

Photo by Rowena Cruz Alvertrio