We had the good fortune of connecting with Andre Cruz And Chris Lujan and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Andre Cruz and Chris Lujan, why did you pursue a creative career?
Chris: I’ve always been into the arts. It started off when I was very young. Not with music. But, with drawing and painting. I always thought I was going to be an artist. It wasn’t until high school that I picked up an instrument. But, since then, I’ve never put it down.

Andre: Expressing myself artistically is the only way I’ve ever really felt seen by others. It allows me to be vulnerable about my thoughts or experiences in a way that’s authentic and energetic. It makes me feel whole.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
Andre: I’m most excited that we get to create music that I know that I would listen to, that my family would listen to, and that is so steeped in our community and culture. And, I appreciate that we can share this with anyone who listens.

Chris: I like that we’re a self-contained unit who can write, record, and put out records on our own if and when we want to.

Andre: It definitely wasn’t easy. I had to deal with a lot of imposter syndrome as well as pushing my own creative sound instead of giving to to what people “wanted” me to sound like. That was a bit of a lonely process. But, I’m proud of how far I’ve come.

Chris: Imposter syndrome is a very real thing. I’ve spent years and years trying to get where I am today. But, I wouldn’t say that the challenges are over. Every time we write and record a song, that imposter syndrome starts to creep in. It’s a challenge to fight through that.

Andre: You’ve got to trust yourself because right or wrong you have to know that it’s something you did for yourself. And, it’s something to learn and grow from. I just want people to know that when they listen to us, they’re hearing a lifetime of work in the sound that I wanted to create.

Chris: I want people to know that the music they’re hearing is who I am. I am always honest with the music. It’s my heart outside of my body.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Chris: I’d definitely direct people to The Artform Studio, Adrian and Sherry Younge’s record store and hair salon. Every time I’m in LA, I make sure to hit up Adrian’s shop. I’d also send people over to Future Music for all of their vintage instrument needs.

Andre:. If we’re talking food, I’ll take you to Guelaguetza. I’ll take you to Moo’s Craft BBQ. If you’re wanting to get a drink and hear some good music, I’d recommend The Gold Line.

Chris: Let’s not forget Hello Stranger who we’re shouting out in this article.

Andre: Agreed. That’s what I was going to recommend if people want to check out a show. Thanks for interrupting me.

Chris: You know that’s what I do best.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Chris and Andre: We’d like to shout out Waxvillain (vinyl record enthusiast and influencer), Angela over at Hello Stranger, and Jess Lipsky (author, DJ).

Instagram: @andrecruzandchrislujan

Facebook: Andre Cruz and Chris Lujan

Youtube: Andre Cruz and Chris Lujan

Other: https://andrecruzchrislujan.bandcamp.com/

Image Credits
Pete Gonzales, Christian Cadena

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