Bio
Soul Grateful, also known as Cito the CEO, is a versatile artist, entrepreneur, and visionary blending music, culture, and business. Born into a musical family, his journey started at age five in his father’s studio, where he cultivated his skills and competitive edge by battling in schools, on the streets, and on stage.
Growing up as a bilingual, mixed-race individual, he embraced the richness of Hispanic culture, which became a cornerstone of his music. Cito’s artistry transcends genres and languages, making waves with his bilingual TalkingSpanglish trilogy. His global reach began with the first installment, achieving over 100,000 streams. Through his music, Cito celebrates Spanglish speakers and the Latino community, incorporating personal experiences, resilience, and gratitude into every project. As Soul Grateful, Cito embodies a philosophy of love, faith, and encouragement, encapsulated by his phrase SOUL GRAtEFUL.
This mindset not only drives his creative work but also fuels his entrepreneurial ventures, including an upcoming children’s book titled The Soul Grateful Prayer, the healthy food truck Grateful Greens, and efforts in real estate and merchandise. Cito’s journey is a testament to perseverance. After surviving brain surgery due to an AVM stroke, he rebuilt his ability to walk, talk, and think, channeling these challenges into his music and business.
As an artist, Cito is committed to leaving a legacy of creativity, financial freedom, and community impact. Balancing his artistic and entrepreneurial ambitions, he aims to uplift others while striving for success as a musician and entertainment mogul.
"Growing up as a proud #Blacxican (bilingual) kid in a gritty, small farm town on the outskirts of the city, music was his constant companion. Every day, the radio was his window to the world, filling the air with inspiration and dreams of something greater.
From an early age, he envisioned his music transcending boundaries, reaching people from all walks of life with a simple but profound message: God loves you.
With this calling in his heart, his music invites everyone to join in the celebration. Sing, Dance, and Rejoice! Each beat is a reminder that no matter where you come from, there's always a reason to lift your voice and move your feet in joy. " - Jaquira Diaz, Freelancer
“My music is important to me. I want to make music that makes people feel amazing and loved.” -Soul GrateFul
(Grateful) has suffered with massive health issues in his life, putting his music on pause for years.
“It was so frustrating relearning everything again. walk, interact with ppl, eat, Everything!!” (Grateful) is an optimist though, saying throughout the interview when he talks about life ‘everything happens for a reason’. Since 2018.
As a seasoned journalist covering music across all genres, I’ve come to value the insights and opinions of my peers. So, when I sent SouL GrAtEFUL's project "Talking Spanglish 2" to numerous people in the industry, I was eager to hear their reactions. The responses were consistent: "DAMN, this is good" or a string of "okay, okay, okay, I like this."
"When I get feedback like that," SouL GrAtEFUL shared, "it lets me know I’m onto something really good."
SouL GrAtEFUL is an emerging artist, bringing a fresh blend of cultures and a unique sound to the table. His music offers something new, yet it’s that infectious "Spanglish Energy" we can’t get enough of. By Alex, Robert Ross April 21, 2024
Speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord;
Ephesians 5:19..
My parents took pride in the way that they dressed so naturally, I picked up the passion.
My mom with her allegiant see super how Latina, vibrant colors and the way she would match some of the most beautiful outfits that were pennies on the dollar to make sure their kids had clothes on their back with creativity to make it look good. -S.Grateful
My father is a sharp dresser. A very handsome man, looking like he just stepped out of a GQ magazine. With his proud Latino Chicano influence crossed with his fly urban attire.
I learned more about high fashion name brands from him and classic wear such as Stacy, Adam Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Versace, and much more opening up , my imagination that the fashion will support.
Real
True
"I’ve dealt with difficulties in my life from being a mixed race bilingual man, from abuse in my life and early childhood, and seeing my mom go through tough times, "But with GOD, Love and encouragement, you can do anything." -SOUL GRAtEFUL
“God had me temporary paralyze so I can learn to empathize and sympathize with everyone that Cross is my eyes."
-Soul Grateful
The story and perspective are powerful, and "SOUL GRAtEFUL" beautifully encapsulates the strength and gratitude he has cultivated through his life experiences. He want to share this message further or incorporate it into the music project, it really resonate with many people who have faced similar struggles.
Soul Grateful’s journey is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. After surviving a life-threatening brain injury and navigating the challenges of growing up as an at-risk youth, he emerged with a renewed sense of purpose. Despite the temptations of the streets—ranging from drug dealing to gang activity—Grateful's life took a transformative turn when he had a profound, face-to-face encounter with Jesus.
Today, “Grateful” is dedicated to making music to share the gospel through his diverse talents. His music aims to spread light, love, and gratitude, offering hope and inspiration to others who may be facing their own struggles.
SouL GrAtEFUL’s life story is a powerful example of human resilience. After surviving a life-threatening brain injury and overcoming the challenges of being an at-risk youth, he emerged with a renewed sense of direction
Since 2018, he's taken that philosophy to heart, channeling his resilience and faith into every note, determined to uplift and inspire those who listen.
Soul Grateful’s Musical Evolution:
"From Local Battles to Global Recognition"
at just five years old in his father’s studio, Grateful’s competitive spirit quickly made him a force in local music battles—whether at school, on the streets, or on stage. These early experiences shaped his raw talent and passion for music.
SouL GRAtEFUl’s career took off globally when he began incorporating Spanish and Hispanic culture into his sound. His bilingual project, "TalkingSpanglish," the first in a trilogy, reached over 100,000 streams, allowing him to connect deeply with Latino, Spanish, and Spanglish-speaking audiences worldwide. Isabela Raygoza, Audible
POPULAR ARTWORKS
"GRAtEFUL" and I talk for awhile more about life, how he met his wife, Nichole, how he worked 3 jobs at the same time at one point to support himself while living inside his car, and then we listen to a few of his songs. Every single song is honest, raw, but somehow, fun, vibrant, and feels like a fresh, summer breeze. "GRAtEFUL" hopes to keep releasing music and has big plans for the future. - Marjua Estevez, Associate Editor, (Latin Billboards)
“I make music that makes people feel grateful and loved.”
-SOUL GRAtEFU
Guinness World Records Certificate
Award: First Person to Play and Record a Music Video Inside and Atop the Seattle Space Needle
Recipient: Aaron Ybarra (Soul GRAtEFUL) & Nichole Ybarra (Mrs.Nikki)
Date: July 7, 2021
Record Details:
"Grateful" and his wife, "Mrs.Nikki", successfully played and recorded their music video, "Manor Arriba," inside and atop the iconic Space Needle in Seattle,
Washington, USA. This remarkable feat was achieved on their second wedding anniversary."
* Location: Seattle Space Needle, Seattle, Washington, USA
* Equipment: iPhone
* Artist: Soul GRAtEFUL
Verification: This record has been verified by Guinness World Records Adjudicator -Mark McKinley on January 20, 2022.
The story behind
Soul Grateful
is both
powerful and deeply moving. His journey, marked by strength and gratitude, is a testament to the resilience he's cultivated through life’s many challenges. In his music, SouL GrAtEFUL beautifully encapsulates these experiences, creating a message that resonates on a profound level.
He’s committed to sharing this message even further, weaving it into his music in a way that speaks to anyone who has faced similar struggles. It’s a reminder that no matter the hardships, there’s always room for gratitude and growth—a message that will surely strike a chord with many.
SouL GrAtEFUL’s journey is a remarkable testament to the resilience of the human spirit. After surviving a life-threatening brain injury and enduring the difficulties of growing up as an at-risk youth, he emerged with a renewed sense of purpose. Despite the temptations of the streets—from drug dealing to gang involvement—Grateful’s life took a transformative turn after a profound, face-to-face encounter with Jesus.
Today, SouL GrAtEFUL channels his experience and faith into his music, using his talents to share the gospel. His work radiates Light, Love, and Gratitude, aiming to inspire hope in others who may be facing their own battles. Through every beat and lyric, he offers a message of resilience and spiritual redemption.
He shows me audio files. He doesn’t just have a few beats here and there, he has dozens upon dozens, just waiting for creativity to strike, either with him or another artist he works with.
“Many bright beats come from dark places. "As I got older, there were only two things that I gripped and held onto. Music and faith.” (Grateful) has suffered with massive health issues in his life, putting his music on pause for years. SHAWN GRANT Senior Editor of The Source Magazine.
(Focuses On)
“GRAtEFUL” focuses on smooth Latin sounds and upbeat R&B beats that make you want to immediately dance. “Being exposed to different types of lifestyle really opened up my ears.”
He shows me audio files. He doesn’t just have a few beats here and there, he has dozens upon dozens, just waiting for creativity to strike, either with him or another artist he works with.
“Many bright beats come from dark places. As I got older, there were only two things that I gripped and held onto. Music and faith.”
-Zoe Johnson
News Writer & Editorial Assistant at XXL
Growing up, “GrAtEFUL” was introduced to life fast and learned it wasn’t going to be easy from the jump quickly before lots of kids do. “I saw my folks get up and hustle every single day so that I could have a good life and so my siblings and I wouldn’t have to struggle as much. “
“Grateful” watched my mom work her ass off so that He could have what He has right now. “I have a lot of love and respect for my mom. She’s always keeping it real. She pushes me to be better every single day and will call me out if she see’s some BS.
Same with my dad.”
“Grateful” has suffered with medical problems too. He had to reteach himself how to write, produce, and record after having a stroke in his early 20’s.
“I had a lot going for me in music in my 20’s. I was on a roll, about to move up with some big players, and then my medical injury impacted me. Boom. I almost died."
Delivers Rhythmic Truths with Talking Spanglish 2 "DOS!!"
Soul Grateful, the voice behind the “Talking Spanglish “, returns with Talking Spanglish II, the second chapter in the powerful saga. This project is more than just a collection of songs—it's a rhythmic journey through the soul of Spanglish culture, blending beats that resonate across not only Mexico but every Spanish-speaking country and city. With Talking Spanglish II, Soul Grateful dives into the complex world of cultural pride, resilience, and social justice. Recorded during a pivotal moment in history, when riots erupted over police brutality, systemic racism, and unnecessary violence, the project serves as a direct response to these events. In the face of nationwide unrest, Soul Grateful collaborated with artists both internationally and locally, using music to express the pain, love, and triumph experienced by marginalized communities .
The Heart Behind TalkingSpanglish3:
A Son's Love and Mission for Change*
Talking Spanglish 3: The final installment of Soul Grateful’s trilogy, is more than music—it’s a reflection of a son's love for his mother and their shared mission to uplift the community. Inspired by his mother, Flora Ybarra, Soul Grateful joined forces with his to create Talking Spanglish with Flora Ybarra* , a program aimed at supporting inner-city youth. Their focus is on drug and alcohol prevention, gun and gang violence reduction, and offering a refuge for those facing abuse or hardship at home.
As TalkingSpanglish 3
resonates with fans worldwide, Soul Grateful has turned up the volume, blending his unique sound with social consciousness. With the 2026 World Cup coming to Seattle FOR THE FIRST TIME IN HISTORY, Soul Grateful is positioning his music as part of the cultural celebration, spreading GODs Word and how it moves in His life message far and wide."
The partnership with Flora Ybarra goes beyond music. Talking Spanglish with Flora Ybarra is dedicated to breaking down language and cultural barriers between Latino/other families of color and school districts.
The program advocates for social justice, immigration reform, and economic equality, ensuring Latino and children have the support they need to succeed. Their mission is clear: to bridge gaps and build a better future for all.
@SOULGRAtEFUL7
"Talking Spanglish is more than just music; it's a movement rooted in rhythm, culture, and the universal desire for justice and change."
-Soul GRAtEFUL