Miguel St. Michael Shines with Debut Album ‘Entre Luces’

Austin, Texas — Miguel St. Michael is finally seeing the light at the end of the tunnel with the release of his debut solo album ‘Entre Luces.’ Miguel, the former frontman of Son de Rey has been performing for over a decade, sharing the stage with prominent Latin artists including AB Quintanilla & Kumbia All Stars, El Gran Silencio, La Mafia, Michael Salgado, Ceci Bastida, and Gina Chavez.

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Following his departure from Son de Rey in 2021, he embarked on a transformative journey to record his debut solo album, ‘Entre Luces.’ Produced by Grammy-winner Fabian Hernandez, ‘Entre Luces’ weaves together a dynamic blend of powerful pop vocals with Regional Mexican undertones, pulsating synths, and ‘90s guitar riffs. With 13 heartfelt tracks spanning Latin Pop-Rock, Cumbia, Tejano, and Urbana influences, ‘Entre Luces’ resonates with authenticity and passion.

“Sexi, Sexi” is a pop anthem for the post-pandemic Quiet Quitter inspired by Miguel’s experience working as a public school teacher during the COVID-19 pandemic. The infectious tune and a crowd favorite is a celebration of the overworked, yet resilient Latinx professional who yearns for sensations of allure, carefreeness, and sexiness following a hard day’s work.

“I was exhausted, underpaid, and fed up. While grading papers late after school, this song came to me and I began writing it all at my desk.” Raised in a family of teachers, Miguel did not want to pursue education as a career.

“Teachers struggle to support themselves financially in Austin, and they are underappreciated. But the experience led me to travel the world every summer, and I was able to earn a masters degree in Spanish Language & Culture from the University of Salamanca in Spain.” says Miguel.

“La De Mala Gente,” a Queer Pride cumbia, features RuPaul’s Drag Race alum Cynthia Lee Fontaine and rap luminary BabiBoi. Inspired by the life and legacy of Trans-activist and Texas drag icon Kelly Kline, this electrifying track underscores Miguel’s dedication to pushing boundaries within the genre, blending cumbia and house music.

“Guapito, Divino” samples a soundbite of an infamous Juan Gabriel interview where he addressed rumors about his sexuality, propelling listeners into a narrative of attraction ignited by cumbia’s infectious rhythm.

The track was amplified on the big screen by the “Guapito Divino” Cumbia Short Film Music Video, winner of “Best Music Video” at the Texas Short Film Festival. Directed and produced by Miguel, the plot focuses on the interplay of artistry, controversy, and self-discovery, setting the stage for a poignant queer Tejano romance.

“Guapito Divino is symbolic of my journey as a queer Tejano artist and what I would have wanted to see on MTV as a kid growing up in the Rio Grande Valley,” says Miguel.

Other notable tracks from the album pull on the heartstrings of 90s enthusiasts. “Soñé Con Muchas Sirenas” takes listeners back to the Little Mermaid, highlighting how mermaids have long empowered queer identity and self-expression. The catchy cumbia features Guatemalan Urbana sensation Adriana Rosso and makes for a musical experience that is both enchanting and hypnotic.

“Many people think that Selena was my first inspiration, but it was actually Ariel from The Little Mermaid. Jodi Benson’s ‘Part of Your World’ made me want to become a singer,” says Miguel.

According to Miguel, Ariel’s story echoes the struggles that many queer kids face growing up misunderstood. “I always wanted to leave my hometown in search of acceptance and wonder just like Ariel.”

“Bésame” is Miguel St. Michael’s unique spin on Sixpence None The Richer‘s “Kiss Me,” featuring Grammy inning accordionists Rick Fuentes and Rolando Revilla along with steel guitarist Reggie Duncan. This new rendition infuses Texas Conjunto and Americana, an homage to Miguel’s roots offering a fresh perspective on a beloved pop classic.

“It’s really the icing on the cake when it comes to covers, and the arrangement reminds me of when I used to watch my Grandparents dance to conjunto at weddings,” says Miguel.

With its rich instrumentation and soulful vocals, ‘Entre Luces’ is a must-listen. Seamlessly celebrating Tex-Mex heritage, spirituality, and queer identity, each track is a testament to Miguel’s artistic journey. From powerful cumbia anthems to heartfelt ballads, Miguel’s debut solo album is a triumph, showcasing his evolution from one illuminating musical chapter to another.

Listen to the full album on your preferred platform here.

Miguel St. Michael will host a release party and concert April 13 at Sahara Lounge in Austin, Texas featuring performances by Cynthia Lee Fontaine of RuPaul’s Drag Race, Adriana Rosso, Afro Jazz and Sahara Allstars, followed by a special tribute to the Queen of Tejano Music, Selena.

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