What is the purpose of the Venezuelan Songbook?

Venezuelan Songbook is my third album that contains traditional Venezuelan songs all translated into English as an homage to the gracious welcoming of immigrant Venezuelans in English-speaking countries.

Inspired by the legendary American composer Sammy Cahn, who, in the 1970s, made English versions of traditional Venezuelan songs written by the beloved Aldemaro Romero, I created the Venezuelan Songbook to support the internationalization of Venezuelan songwriters, revitalize Venezuelan arts and culture, and connect with English-spéaking people in their own language.

Music is a common ground for everyone, free from barriers, laws, and nationalities that might otherwise divide people. I dare say that just as two violinists from different countries are both equal musicians when they read the same musical note in a score, so are two people who listen to a song that represents them equally. That is my goal. All of these efforts of translation and adaptation of traditional Venezuelan music are so that the songs can represent more and more people, so there are a greater commonality and understanding between cultures.

As we all know, Venezuela has been destroyed by a criminal dictatorship, but I believe that the country’s vibrant art and culture are the foundation for rebuilding society. Therefore, introducing, communicating, and sharing those Venezuelan values and cultural assets in all languages is essential for the country’s restoration.

According to the Migration Policy Institute of the USA, the Venezuelan immigrant population in the United States has tripled since the year 2000, now making Venezuelans the fifth-largest immigrant group from South America.

The Venezuelan Songbook is an artistic gift of thanksgiving for, “the best Host nations.” The Venezuelan Songbook is a piece of art that facilitates real, effective, and rewarding cultural exchange.

I believe in the power of music, connections, and innovation. My hope is that the Venezuelan Songbook can truly unify people through music. I’ve put my heart into this album— it represents all that I love about my beautiful and artistic home country of Venezuela.

The album is available on all streaming platforms, including Spotify, Apple Music, iTunes, Amazon Music, Tidal, Deezer, and YouTube.

Click here and listen to the album:

Enjoy the Venezuelan music in English and let me know, what it makes you feel?

Juan Carlos Ruiz