We’re looking forward to introducing you to Ruben Castro. Check out our conversation below.
Good morning Ruben, we’re so happy to have you here with us and we’d love to explore your story and how you think about life and legacy and so much more. So let’s start with a question we often ask: What is a normal day like for you right now?
A normal day for me right now usually starts with checking emails first thing in the morning—making sure I’m on top of anything coming in from artists, managers, or labels. Then I hit the gym to get my mind and body right. If I’m gearing up for a tour, I’ll head straight to rehearsals—whether it’s working on playback, tightening the live mix, or making sure the artist feels confident and comfortable on stage. If I’m not in tour mode, I spend most of my day at the studio either mixing or mastering tracks for my clients. I’ve been fortunate to work on some big projects recently, so I try to stay locked in as long as I can. After the session wraps, I head home, read a book to wind down, and then reset to do it all again the next day.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Hey, I’m Ruben Castro. I’m a studio and live engineer with a background working in some of the most iconic studios like Record Plant and Just for the Record, where I’ve been part of projects for artists like Khalid, Karol G, Becky G, The Weeknd, and more. I’ve also toured extensively across the U.S., Europe, Australia, and New Zealand, mixing front of house and running playback for artists like Charlieonnafriday, Christian Nodal, and Estevie—and I recently mixed a set at Coachella, which was an incredible experience.
What makes my work unique is the range—I bring the same level of attention, energy, and care whether I’m in the studio crafting records or on the road making sure an artist sounds their best live. I’m all about creating a great vibe, being adaptable, and doing everything I can to support both the music and the team behind it.
Appreciate your sharing that. Let’s talk about your life, growing up and some of topics and learnings around that. Who taught you the most about work?
My dad definitely taught me the most about work. He always supported me in chasing my dreams and constantly reminded me to never give up, no matter how tough things got. He actually predicted early on that I’d be touring the world within two years of starting my career—and he was right. That belief and encouragement from him pushed me to stay focused and go all in.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
Yeah, there was definitely a time I almost gave up. I was working at a studio as a runner, pulling 1 a.m. to 10 a.m. shifts—cleaning, doing food runs, all the behind-the-scenes stuff. It felt like I was stuck and that I’d never get a real shot at being in the hot seat, actually recording artists. It was exhausting and discouraging at times, but deep down I knew I had to keep pushing. Eventually, that persistence paid off, and I got my first real opportunity to engineer a session. That moment changed everything for me.
Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. What would your closest friends say really matters to you?
My closest friends would probably say that what really matters to me is protecting my peace and staying focused on my purpose. I work hard, I care deeply about the people and projects I commit to, but I don’t keep anyone in my life who’s bringing chaos or negativity. At this point, I’m all about good energy, solid relationships, and surrounding myself with people who uplift, not drain.
Thank you so much for all of your openness so far. Maybe we can close with a future oriented question. If you knew you had 10 years left, what would you stop doing immediately?
Honestly, nothing. I’ve been doing what I love the most—helping artists and my clients reach their full potential sonically. I’ve loved my family, loved my friends, helped others, and lived my life exactly how I dreamed of. I’m very lucky to do what I do, and if I had 10 years left, I’d keep doing it the same way.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @rustroofficial
