Kat Harlton
Lead Photo: Christian Jacques
Cuban-born pianist, singer, and arranger Andy Rubal ushers in a vibrant new chapter with the release of his latest album, “Baila y Confía“. Now based in Montreal, Rubal blends the rich traditions of Cuban salsa with contemporary Latin influences, delivering a nine-track project that highlights both his virtuosic musicianship and dynamic songwriting. Featuring collaborations with celebrated Cuban artists including Alexander Abreu, Manolito Simonet, Tania Pantoja, and Eduardo Sandoval, Baila y Confía captures the spirit of resilience, joy, and movement at the heart of Latin music. Rooted in Rubal’s Santiago de Cuba heritage while shaped by his international career, the album celebrates the power of rhythm and community, inviting listeners everywhere to dance, trust, and move forward with confidence.
I had the opportunity to chat with Andy about his latest album, career highlights and what’s next.
Kat: Can you talk about the inspiration behind your latest album, “Baila y Confia”?
Andy: This album speaks about love, dance, the fragility of friendship, the joy of love, and feminine sensuality without vulgarity. It is also a reflection of dear friends I have seen leave unexpectedly, such as the bassist from my first band in Cuba, Dayron Zayas, who passed away at the age of 28. It is about people who were important in different stages of my life, including a colleague from the studio who took her own life, and another friend who lost his son. All of these experiences accumulated over time and shaped the emotional core of the album.
I also meet people in my audience who have become like family. Sometimes they share their struggles with me, but they continue moving forward, dancing with faith in the future. For example, the song Déjame Vivir was a cry from my soul at a specific moment when I felt spiritually drained after a very painful emotional breakup. In my personal case, I found happiness in God (Jesus), in my children, in my family and friends, and in making my beloved audience dance.
Kat: What do you hope fans take from the album?
Andy: I would like people to dance to it, listen to it, and connect with the songs during certain moments in their lives. There are many joyful songs on this record. Overall, it is a very positive album. I hope listeners take away a message of positivity, even in the midst of adversity.
Kat: What do you find is the most challenging part of your creative process?
Andy: When I create, I usually work very quickly. The most challenging part is convincing myself that what I’m doing is musically right. I am very demanding with myself, sometimes even perfectionistic, which is not always efficient. Another challenge is communicating every detail of what I hear in my head to each musician and bringing that vision to life. Fortunately, this process has never created problems with anyone—haha.
Kat: What has been a career highlight for you so far? What have you learned along the way?
Andy: Performing at the Montreal International Jazz Festival, as well as my recent nomination at the Juno Awards and the nomination at the Cubadisco Awards for my first album, have without a doubt been major milestones in my career.
Kat: What’s next for you?
Andy: To trust the process, stay calm, and keep working tirelessly to deliver the best possible music for my audience. I hope to continue sharing that live exchange that I enjoy so much with dancers and audiences in general.
Connect With Andy Rubal:
https://www.facebook.com/AndyRubalOfficial
https://www.instagram.com/andyrubalbello
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCphAjDu39XvC_lKkLcG-LlQ
https://www.tiktok.com/@andyrubalbello