We had the good fortune of connecting with Elyza Guzman and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Elyza, can you tell us more about your background and the role it’s played in shaping who you are today?
I was born in Miami, Florida to a large and diverse Latin American family. Most of my early childhood was spent running around outside in the hot sun with my younger cousins and learning about the world through stories from my older relatives. We also listened to a lot of different types of music, so I’m grateful to have been able to develop an eclectic taste early on. I like to pull inspiration from all types of sources. Everywhere I turned, no matter the day, time, or situation I found myself in, music was always there to provide a safe escape. I was able to absorb so much knowledge just by listening to so many different genres, and I honestly think my family’s adoration for music is the biggest reason why I’m still pursuing a performing arts career now. I truly don’t see myself doing anything else with my life. It’s the most honest way I can express myself.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?

I am extremely strong-willed and not afraid to explore unknown territory. I’m ultimately an eclectic artist, and I draw upon influences from anything I can. If it interests me, I’ll more likely than not find a way to learn everything I can about it. I think this constant yearning to keep trying new things has significantly helped me get to where I am today. I had little access to training programs or conservatories, so most of what I know is self-taught, or refined by a handful of mentors I grew close to throughout my life. One of my biggest accomplishments was getting into Emerson College’s BFA Musical Theatre program. I had guidance from my high school theatre teacher, Mr. Pulliam, and with hours of practicing, studying, and a stubborn will, I earned my spot in undergrad.

I hope that if there is anything to be learned from my story and my art, it’s that no matter who you are or where you come from, you define yourself. Conforming to other opinions of what I should be and what art I should make never led me down an authentic path. I’ve always been different. You MUST be different if you wish to make your mark on the world. So don’t be afraid to try!

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I love to info dump, so my main activity of choice would be to show them the local gems I grew up with, almost like a tour. We’d start with brunch at Baby Bakery on NW 168th St, Hialeah. We’d eat pastelitos and finish it off with cafe con leche. Then, I’d take them to Greynold’s Park, which is where my father used to take my brother and I to run free and observe the wild animals that live there. Then, we’d probably go to Aventura Mall and walk around for hours gawking at the boutiques. I’d also like to take them to the Hollywood Beach boardwalk. The beach is the most healing place for me, and I love to share that with my loved ones.

If it’s possible, I’d also take them to Santa’s Enchanted Forrest. Just because.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I would like to give a shoutout to my uncle Alberto Vila, or, “Pupu”, as we often called him. Ever since I could remember, he had his own small recording studio in his bedroom, and everyone in the family has recorded a song with him at least once; myself included. My Tio Pupu was a rapper and music producer. He was a self-taught producer, which would be hard to tell based on the quality of his projects. Us two were always connected through our affinity for music. He never made it to the larger music scene as his introverted personality kept him from chasing the spotlight. Despite this, we recorded songs together, wrote together, and talked about music constantly.

Tio Pupu suddenly passed away just as I was about to enter high school. With this sudden loss, I now only have the memories of him and his endless encouragement to keep with me. I keep his old mic in my bedroom as a reminder to never stop creating. He has always and will always be the spirit that guides me in my music career.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elyzacguzman/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elyza-guzman-338242257/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/elyzacguzman

Other: Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@elyzacguzman

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutMiami is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.