By Roberto Hugo González
Maria D’Luz, a renowned Mexican American singer-songwriter, has captivated audiences with her powerful voice and diverse musical talent. With over 17 years of experience, she has performed on some of the most prestigious stages, including The Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C., Houston’s House of Blues, and Miami’s Van Dykes and Don Francisco. Her journey is about music and the importance of cultural roots and personal growth.
“I’ve been playing the piano and singing for a very long time since I was four years old,” Maria D’Luz shared, reflecting on her early start in music. Born and raised in Matamoros, Tamaulipas, Mexico, she was surrounded by music from a young age. “I used to play classical music, and then I started playing jazz and all sorts of music,” she said. Her early exposure to various genres laid the foundation for a versatile career that would see her cross multiple musical boundaries.
Growing up, Maria D’Luz was no stranger to the spotlight. “I was working at Televisa Matamoros as a kid, singing on TV every weekend,” she recalled. “I got used to being in the performing arts since I was very young.” This early experience on television helped her build confidence and a deep connection to her craft, a connection that would only grow stronger over time.
After moving to McAllen, Texas, about ten years ago, Maria quickly integrated into the local arts community. “I established a really nice relationship with the McAllen Convention Center and also at the Civic Center when Yajaira Flores used to be there,” Maria D’Luz explained. “I’ve had the opportunity to be called for many events, and I’m very lucky to be here.” Her move to McAllen began a new chapter in her career, where she continued to evolve as an artist while staying true to her roots.
Maria D’Luz’s diverse musical background reflects her upbringing on the border of the United States and Mexico. “Growing up on the border, it’s very easy to go back and forth and be exposed to many different types of music,” she noted. This cultural fusion is evident in her work, which spans genres from jazz and R&B to cumbia and flamenco. “I have an album that’s out that is in English, and it’s kind of jazzy, but I also have another one that’s in Spanish, and it’s cumbia,” she said, illustrating her versatility and ability to bridge different musical worlds.
In addition to her singing career, Maria D’Luz is also a dancer and a dance teacher. “I dance flamenco. I’m a dance teacher as well,” she shared. Her love for the arts extends beyond music, encompassing all forms of creative expression. “I’ve explored a little bit of everything. I just love it so much.”
Maria D’Luz’ entrepreneurial spirit led her to establish Maple Music, LLC, a hub for artists in the Rio Grande Valley. “I get to collaborate, build my band, and have a good network of bass players and drummers,” she explained. Through this company, Maria D’Luz aims to support other local artists and help them navigate the often-challenging music industry. “I know what it was like 10 or 20 years ago for me, not knowing recording studios or feeling like they were inaccessible,” she reflected.
Looking to the future, she has big plans. “As a songwriter, I would like to offer more of my music to other artists so they can grow,” she said. “I do want to grow my company and support other artists.” She is teaming up with Pavel Cal to create a record label for Valley artists, aiming to provide them with the resources and support they need to succeed.
When asked about her inspirations, Maria D’Luz named Gloria Estefan a significant influence. “I really looked up to her. I feel she’s got the Spanish and the English; she can do the ballads, the upbeat music, the band by herself, and the songwriter. It’s just everything,” she said. Maria’s admiration for Estefan’s versatility and ability to cross cross-cultural and linguistic boundaries is evident in her work, which similarly blends multiple genres and languages.
Maria D’Luz has written close to 300 songs, with around 40 of them already released. “Falling for You,” “Snap Out of It,” and “No Puedo Más” are among her favorites, each representing different phases of her life. “They’re all different parts of my life when I wrote them,” she explained, showcasing her ability to channel her personal experiences into her music.
For Maria D’Luz, songwriting is a deeply personal and therapeutic process. “I started maturing in my songwriting and felt like it was more of a therapy session for myself,” she shared. Whether writing about love, heartbreak, or nature, she uses her songs to process her emotions and connect with her audience profoundly. “Whenever I sing it, I was just healing, and it was better every time.”
As Maria D’Luz continues to grow her audience and share her music with the world, she remains committed to her roots and community. “I love sharing music, so if there’s a possibility to grow my audience and continue this journey, that would be great,” she said. Her passion for music and dedication to her craft are evident in everything she does, making her a true inspiration in music and beyond.
Maria D’Luz youtube.com
https://www.youtube.com/@MariaDLuzMusic
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