Hailing from the vibrant city of Maracay, Venezuela, singer-songwriter Ismael Caballero is an artist whose very existence is fuelled by a profound, lifelong love for music. Singing before he could even properly speak, Ismael was already penning his own tracks by the age of 13. Years of dedicated piano and vocal lessons eventually led him to the stages of the Swiss Voice Tour 2023.
Guided by his personal mantra, "Nobody is going to 'find' you, so be your own discoverer," he crafts soulful music that helps listeners feel at peace with themselves.
In this exclusive interview, we dive deep into Ismael's musical journey, exploring the raw realities of his songwriting process and the evolution of his unique sound. We also discuss his brilliant debut independent album, ‘My Fridge Would Be Empty’, exploring how he successfully transforms existential creative anxieties into infectious, genre-blending rhythms. It is an honest look into the soul of a rising independent artist.
A huge thank you for joining us today, Ismael! It’s so great to be able to catch up with you; thanks for taking the time to answer some of our questions. When did you first start making music? Where did it all begin, and what inspired you?
“Music has honestly been my first language; I feel like I’ve been singing since the moment I learned how to speak. When I turned 13, I started writing my own songs, though back then, I didn't even fully understand the craft or what songwriting truly meant—it was just a raw, instinctive need to express myself.”
“My deepest inspiration has always been the visceral, emotional impact of music itself. I’ll never forget the first time I ever harmonised with another voice; the pure beauty and emotion of that sonic connection was so overwhelming that it actually moved me to tears. That was the moment I knew music wasn't just something I did—it was who I was.”
Can you tell us a bit about your latest project, 'My Fridge Would Be Empty', and what it means to you?
“My latest project is my debut independent album, 'My Fridge Would Be Empty.' It is an 11-song project that means the absolute world to me because it comes from a deeply personal, sacred space.”
“The album is a literal reflection of a very real, raw anxiety that haunts almost every independent creator: the terrifying thought that if you give 100% of your time, heart, and energy to your music, you won't be able to put food on the table or handle the bills. I dedicated this entire project to all the artists out there who are standing at that exact crossroads, terrified of starving for their passion. It's my way of stepping into that shared space of fear, validating it, and turning it into art.”
What experiences and musical influences shaped the writing of this album?
“The main experience that influenced this project was the quiet, late-night reality of balancing survival with creativity. It’s that heavy feeling and emptiness in your stomach when you turn off the studio lights at three in the morning, knowing you poured your soul into a track but still having to face the financial uncertainty of tomorrow.”
“Musically, I wanted to channel that emotional weight into urban, trap, and Afrobeats rhythms. The contrast of exploring heavy, existential fears over infectious, contemporary beats was a massive creative driving force for me.”
How would you describe your intuitive songwriting process?
“For me, writing and making art comes from a really intimate, intuitive place. I don’t usually sit down with a strict set of rules or structures; I let my instincts guide me. Usually, it starts with an emotional trigger or a specific mood. Once the production or the beat captures that feeling, the melodies and lyrics just start pouring out. I tend to write from the inside out, digging into my own vulnerabilities and lived experiences until the song feels completely honest.”
What do you feel is the most important element when creating a song?
“Authenticity and vulnerability, without a doubt. If a song doesn't make me feel exposed or completely honest while writing it, I know it’s not ready. The music has to stem from a deeply personal space because that's the only way it will truly resonate with someone else. I want to share a piece of my soul with the world, so if I’m not being completely transparent, the audience will feel it.”
How would you describe the sound of your latest release, and how has your style evolved?
“I would describe it as a dynamic blend of Afrobeats, urban, and trap genres, but with a highly atmospheric and emotional edge. It has the infectious energy and rhythm that makes you want to move, but if you pause and listen to the lyrics, there's a deep, introspective moodiness to it. It’s a sound designed to bridge the gap between the club and a late-night, solitary drive.”
Is there a central message you want to convey, and which artists helped inspire that vision?
“The central theme of 'My Fridge Would Be Empty' is that our art is worth the risk, despite the immense fear that comes with it. The album is an anthem for independent creators facing the raw, financial anxiety of dedicating themselves to their passion while worrying about paying the bills.”
“Sonically, this idea comes to life through a heavy contrast of influences. I grounded the emotional weight in the storytelling soul of Simón Díaz, blending it with the atmospheric trap production of Travis Scott and the fearless energy of Rosalía.”
What advice would you offer to up-and-coming artists trying to find their unique sound?
“Don't fight against your own natural expressiveness or sensitivity. Society often tries to put us in rigid, quiet boxes, but as an artist, your willingness to be vulnerable is your superpower. Also, don't worry about trying to fit into a specific mould or pleasing everyone right out of the gate. Write what feels real to you, trust your intuition, and focus on the people who truly support your vision. When you accept yourself 100%, your true sound will find its way out.”
What has been the proudest moment of your musical career so far?
“Releasing 'My Fridge Would Be Empty' into the world as a fully realised, 11-song independent album. Taking an anxiety that felt so heavy and isolating, executing the vision exactly how I wanted, and seeing it live on digital streaming platforms has been incredibly rewarding. It proved to me that the risk was entirely worth it.”
To wrap things up, is there anything final you would like to say to our audience?
“To anyone listening or reading: thank you for giving my music a home. And specifically, to the artists and dreamers out there who are feeling overwhelmed by the pressure to survive while keeping their passion alive, this project is for us. Don't let the fear silence your voice. Go stream 'My Fridge Would Be Empty,' and I hope it gives you the comfort of knowing you are definitely not alone in the studio late at night.”
With a clear vision, undeniable talent, and an unwavering commitment to authenticity, Ismael Caballero is proving that the gamble of independent artistry can yield incredible rewards. By tackling the very real anxieties of the modern creator and wrapping them in irresistible urban rhythms, he has created an album that is both a comfort and a celebration. We cannot wait to see where his self-made path takes him next.
Be sure to follow Ismael Caballero on Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok to keep up with his latest releases and updates!
