This is VIBE Spotlight: a weekly series that celebrates and shines a light on VIBE Arts’ roster of talented artists. Each Monday, our Instagram and website feature a different VIBE Artist and provide a look into their craft. Stay tuned and get to know the diverse talent that makes up our organization and community with #VIBESpotlight.
On this VIBE Spotlight, we’re shining a light on Ruben ‘Beny’ Esguerra, a music and spoken word artist and educator on the VIBE Artist Roster. Since last fall, Ruben has delivered digital music programming to over 100 children and youth across the GTA through VIBE’s Art Beats program.
VIBE: Is there anything you are currently working on that you would like to share?
Ruben: My upcoming album–A New Tradition VOL 3–combines spoken word and hip hop with Latin rhythms and melodies set to be released in the fall of 2021.
VIBE: What has been one of your greatest accomplishments to date?
Ruben: Balancing a career as a freelance artist, musician, arts educator, community worker and full-time father to three talented children. Career accomplishments include: A 2018 JUNO nomination for World Music Album of the Year and recently honoured with the Ontario Arts Foundation Artist Educator Award given annually to an Ontario resident who exemplifies excellence in arts education and continues to maintain an active arts practice.
VIBE: What has been one of your favourite moments while being on the VIBE roster?
Ruben: Safely delivering virtual Beat Making workshops to schools, libraries, detention centres, shelters and community centres in the middle of the COVID-19 pandemic.
VIBE: What is one of the greatest lessons you have learned thus far?
Ruben: Sharpen your chosen skills and live within the means that your chosen skills provide.
VIBE: What are some of your future goals?
Ruben: Continue the path I’m on.
VIBE: What changes would you like to see in Toronto’s Art community?
Ruben: More initiatives that work towards a Universal Basic Income for independent artists and arts educators.
Support Ruben: Instagram: @newtraditionmusic | Facebook: New Tradition Music & @BenyEsguerra | Website: www.newtraditionmusic.com
Stay tuned for more VIBE Artists on VIBE Spotlight