Blending alternative rock, hip-hop rhythms, punk-edged guitars, and heartfelt worship themes, rising artist Coquí (Sam Lopez) has quickly become one of the most engaging new voices in faith-centered music. Originally from Los Angeles and now based in Texas, he brings bold vulnerability and genre-blending creativity to every release. In this conversation, Coquí shares the story behind his artistic journey, his evolving sound, his recent single, “Living 2 Die,” and how his faith continues to influence both his music and his life.
For those meeting you for the first time, please take a moment to introduce yourself and share how you got started.
My real name is Sam Lopez. I was born and raised in Los Angeles, California. I started releasing Christian, faith-based lyrical music in 2023. I grew up in the Christian faith, but when I turned 18, I moved out, rebelled against my parents, and got lost in the music industry trying to climb the social ladder.
In 2020, when COVID hit, a series of events shook my life, and God opened my eyes to the truth. Since then, I’ve devoted my life to Jesus Christ. I’ve been making music for over 15 years—producing for others, touring, and serving as a music director. My life has always been music.
Your sound blends a multitude of influences, including alt-rock, hip-hop, indie, and worship. What inspires your style?
I never go for a specific sound—it’s whatever I’m inspired by in the moment. Sometimes it’s a song I have on repeat. Sometimes, it’s a band I’ve seen live. At other times, it begins with a message I feel is essential, and I build music around it.
My dad was a DJ, so I grew up with a wide range of music—from Latin salsa to ‘70s/’80s disco, ‘90s and early 2000s house, and remixes. I’ve never stuck to one genre. I take pieces I love: hip-hop rhythm, punk guitars, electronic textures. Some songs lean rock, others are blends. I follow my gut and what feels right creatively.
You recently signed with Dream Label Group. How has that experience been?
It’s been great. Working with a label versus releasing independently has been a cool learning process. We’ve built a great relationship with Lance—he’s super hardworking, has excellent ideas, and gets both the punk side of what I do and the Christian music space. It’s been a wonderful partnership.
What’s the story behind your new single, “Living 2 Die”?
This song is special. I recently moved from Los Angeles to San Antonio, and that transition symbolized stepping into a new life and leaving behind my old one. I wanted that feeling in a song—moving forward in faith, leaving old ways behind.
I wrote it during my first month in Texas with a friend, Jordan. I had been listening to more country and Americana and wanted that influence. We wrote it in a few hours, and it came out exactly how I pictured it. It marks a new chapter—marriage, a new home, a new life. We even swapped it in at the last minute for another release because it felt right.
Your recent songs explore themes of surrender and transformation. What season of life inspired them?
Each song reflects a chapter since I returned to my faith—shedding my old self, learning humility, gratitude, forgiveness, and letting go of my ego.
“My Lord Provided” is like a thank-you letter to God. “Only Idol” publicly declares Jesus is the way. “Death to Your Ego” is about letting go of pride. I’m learning to be a storyteller with my music, and I love it.
Any upcoming projects?
I’ve got collabs and some cover songs coming soon—maybe even a full-length project, depending on how many songs we finish—tons of new music on the way.
How can we be praying for you?
Pray for patience. In the music industry, it’s easy to want things fast, but I’ve learned that’s not how it works. Pray for strength to be patient, go with the flow, and trust God’s timing. I’m grateful I get to do this.
Final Thoughts
Coquí is carving out a space where creativity meets conviction, crafting songs that push artistic boundaries while boldly glorifying Christ. With honest storytelling, genre-defying production, and a heart surrendered to God’s timing, his rising impact is only just beginning. Keep your eyes on this one—more powerful music is coming.
Bradden Ford is a Christian music enthusiast responsible for managing NewReleaseToday's new release database of artists and albums. He resides just outside Nashville, Tennessee.
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