In the ever-changing, vibrant universe of music, Manuel Turizo has stood out as an exceptional talent. His versatile songwriting has made us dance to the rhythm of various Latin genres while we cry over our heartbreaks. 

"Heartbreak is a theme that, even when I'm not heartbroken, always comes to me." 
—Manuel Turizo for The Walk 

Since 2016, the singer-songwriter has proven to be an artist who doesn’t fit into just one mold—not only because of the way he has managed his musical career but also through his sense of fashion and good humor. In a conversation with The Walk, Turizo takes us behind the scenes to learn about his creative process, reflections, and, most importantly, a constant reminder to ALWAYS BE TRUE TO YOURSELF. 

THE WALK: How would you describe your creative process when making music? 

MANUEL TURIZO: My creative process changes a lot. Sometimes I’m inspired by a phrase I like, and I build a theme around it; sometimes it’s something I want to express, or a beat I hear, like, and then start creating lyrics for. I wouldn’t say I have a linear process. Inspiration comes from everywhere. 

TW: How do you think your music connects with current trends, specifically in Latin music? 

MT: I’m not the type of artist who puts too much importance on matching trends. When it comes to making art, I feel like you shouldn't try to get ahead of things. When you're creating, it’s about experimenting until you figure out what works—or doesn’t. It’s very subjective, but all the elements that play into the creative process should come from within, without forcing any trend. 

TW: What role do you think fashion plays in today’s music industry, and how has it changed over time? 

MT: I feel like everything is cyclical. Things that were in fashion two years ago and aren’t today could come back tomorrow, and something very similar happens with music. That’s why I think they’ve always been linked. As artists, we usually pay close attention to that. Thinking about the aesthetics, the look, and the vision of the brands you like can also be a source of inspiration. 

TW: How do you think fashion relates to your identity? 

MT: Honestly, I feel like it’s about thinking, “How do I aesthetically connect with my vision?” and making sure everything feels cohesive. I feel that, in that way, I’m not just thinking about myself as a musical project, but about projecting who I am. 

TW: What’s a secret talent you have that no one knows about? 

MT: My secret talent: sleeping like a walrus. 

TW: What’s the worst and the best advice you’ve ever received? 

MT: The worst advice... I don’t really have a worst. I feel like words that don’t serve me, I just erase them, and they don’t stick with me. And the best advice, I feel like it’s always the words from people who motivate you, who keep fueling you to keep trying and believing in yourself. 

TW: What attracted you to collaborate with American Eagle? 

MT: I think American Eagle is a brand for everyone, with no limits. That’s something I really identified with. Also, I think most of us grew up seeing and wearing American Eagle, so it’s already a part of us. 

TW: What advice would you give your fans for creating looks inspired by your style with American Eagle? 

MT: I’d just say, “Make sure you feel confident and cool,” because everyone has their own style and their own way of wearing things. A single piece of clothing can have different interpretations. There’s no right or wrong way to wear it, and that’s the idea! Wear it however you want and give it your own style. If you want to cut the shirt, cut it. If you want to turn the hoodie into a crop top, do it. Honestly, I think the idea of fashion is to give it your personal touch.