Today we’d like to introduce you to Xabdiel Cruz Rivera.
Hi Xabdiel, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
My story begins in Puerto Rico, born into a Christian, musical household. My mother was a singer and songwriter, and my father was a percussionist, so I began learning how to play the drums at only 3 years old. I would join my parents in their many church events, where they would worship and minister through music. At 9 years old, my family decided to move to Grand Prairie, Texas, moved by the Holy Spirit and the desire to step into greater things. At the start, it was difficult for me to understand this change, after all, I was just a kid leaving my home and friends to move to an unfamiliar space. This is where I began to face language barrier, culture shock, and being mocked by my differences. However, I began to use music to communicate! I taught myself to learn the piano, joined the Arlington All City Band as a percussionist, and soon became known as the “kid who could play many instruments”. In 2020, we move to Irving, Texas, resulting in the loss of my new friends. The isolation caused by the pandemic led me to pick up my brother’s acoustic guitar, which I learned to play through YouTube, TikTok, and the Holy Spirit. I also began to song write and sing, which is where I leaned into my mother’s mentorship. This season transformed my life, as I began to surround myself with people that lifted me up, taught me how to produce music, record, songwrite, and serve people better.
With their support, I have been all around Dallas leading worship in different churches and events, and performing songs inspired by the Holy Spirit (written and produced in my bedroom. Some of these events include performing my original song “La Comisión” (“The Great Commission”) at Casa de Dios Cielos Abiertos, one of the biggest Spanish-speaking churches in the DFW area. I also opened for one of the biggest Spanish-speaking, Christian artists, Saraí Rivera, during her Sé Fuerte Tour. I’ve also had the opportunity to record with the Worship Initiative, Christine D Clario, and Shane & Shane as a gang vocalist. I have written songs with Gateway Church and composed original songs for Disciple First Church, where I currently serve as a Worship Director. This year, with the support of my family and community, I have decided to release my original music for all the world to hear! Starting March 2026, “La Comisión” will be heard by more than just my local community, including other singles such as “Lo Abandono Todo” and “Tú Obrarás.”
Nothing would have been accomplished without the support and intentionality of, firstly, God, and then my parents (María Rivera and Xavier Cruz), my girlfriend Destiny, my siblings Abner and Lyxamari and their respective spouses Britni and Ozzie, my godparents and mentors Eli Obed Delgado and Kelly Rivera, my cousin Jan Delgado, and my college professor Dr. Andrew Nicolleti. The reason I list their full names is because I want them to be as recognized as I am; nothing would have been accomplished without them. When people listen to my music, I want them to hear the community behind every song lyric! These songs are theirs as much as they are mine…
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
The journey has not been easy. There have been times where I struggled to believe in myself, doubting whether the songs would be a “hit” and I would be to carry the weight of that. Would I be able to keep my integrity and steward the songs the way God was leading me to?
Another struggle was the idea of me being young and unexperienced, feeling like I lacked the right tools. This includes the academic experience I had to give up due to financial challenges. I had to come to terms with the fact that God needed for me to take a pause and allow him to shape my character during that time as this would allow me to fulfill His plans.
The biggest struggle was in my mind, where I debated if I was talented enough, worthy, or even capable. I can now say God has revealed to me that I “get” to worship through my music, meaning it is a privilege. And I don’t have to prove myself to anyone.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I am a singer, songwriter, and instrumentalist. I’ve written and produced many songs from the comfort of my bunk bed, and I have recently decided to expose my work to the world. I write contemporary Christian music, inspired by different styles and genres. There are traditional, Pentecostal, and Gospel hints in my songs rooted in musical experiences back in Puerto Rico. I am known for my authenticity in my writing style but my performances. When I produce, I find ways to creatively incorporate sounds and uniqueness in the most random places.
I am most proud of the ability to integrate my community into the music recording and execution process. I believe this is what sets me apart for others as I don’t strive for the commercial side of CCM music. I strive for authenticity and vulnerability in every song I write, not being motivated by the streams but driven by faith and God’s calling.
Do you any memories from childhood that you can share with us?
My favorite childhood memory takes place in Puerto Rico. At times, my parents couldn’t afford paying the electric bill, so we would play Hide N Seek as a family. It was such a joyful moment, My mom would start counting, and we would scatter all around the house with no idea of what was happening behind the scene. We would hide in the most unconventional spaces, including the laundry basket. Memories like these remind me that no amount of bills can be greater than the value of happiness and joyful memories with family.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/xabdiel_cruz
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/17quL5JEZQ/
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@xabdielcruzrivera
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@xabdiel_cruz
Image Credits
Eric Valle
EJV Photography
IG:@ej_valle or ejv_photos
