Today we’d like to introduce you to Kristian Cruz.
Hi Kristian, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I’m a professional guitarist born in Fort Worth. My story started around 6th grade when I fell in love with classic rock music and, funny enough, playing Guitar Hero. That inspired me to pick up a real guitar and begin studying music.
While attending Texas State University, I became known for playing pop-up shows and busking around The Square — originally just to get comfortable performing in front of people. Over time, crowds started forming to watch, which pushed me to keep growing as a performer.
A few years later, my friend Jordan Miller, a talented DJ, invited me to join him for a few shows. Combining live guitar with electronic music quickly took off, eventually evolving into a unique blend of country and EDM.
Over the last three years our duo, MixMode, has toured across North America and performed at festivals including Austin City Limits, SXSW, and the Formula 1 United States Grand Prix.
Jordan and I are currently working on new music together, while I’m also developing my own solo EP to reflect my own sound.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
The music industry is a very volatile industry. One minute you feel like you’re on top of the world and the next you’re right back at the beginning.
In the beginning, playing local shows and trying to get booked was always a challenge. We were told “No” or left on read by so many booking agents because there’s so many talented artists working to play the same stages that you are.
Along with that, not every show goes as well as you’d want it. However, it’s all about experience and the more experience you have, the easier it is to overcome obstacles.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I’m a professional guitarist known for blending live guitar with country, rock, and electronic music to create high-energy performances.
I’m most proud of myself for not giving up and never staying satisfied. In this industry, you have to stay driven or else you will fail. As a kid I always had dreams of being on huge stages and to make that a reality within the last few years has been an incredible experience.
What sets me apart is my focus on making guitar a centerpiece in modern live music while still keeping the performance authentic and energetic.
We’d love to hear about any fond memories you have from when you were growing up?
My favorite childhood memory was going to see AC/DC with my Dad. They are my favorite band of all time and it was an incredible show.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kristiancruzguitar?igsh=eWRpdTg5MTBrMzBu
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1Dzb4PYxyE/?mibextid=wwXIfr
