Rising Stars: Meet Raul (Riff) Cuellar of Los Angeles

Today we’d like to introduce you to Raul (Riff) Cuellar.

Hi Raul (Riff), thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I was born in Mexico and grew up traveling before landing in El Paso, TX. As a teen playing in bands, my first recording session blew my mind—I was hooked. I started learning everything I could, picking the brains of anyone willing to talk, buying gear, and recording local punk, ska, hardcore, and metal bands who couldn’t afford studio time.

After high school, I moved to Arizona for recording school, then straight to LA, landing an internship at BLUE Microphones. I worked my way up, tuning capsules and designing gear, but my heart was in making records. I left to intern at Palmquist Studios, then hustled through retail jobs at Guitar Center and Apple while still engineering.

From there, I bounced between studios, working alongside producers like Kyle Black, recording bands like State Champs and Deez Nuts. In 2022, I built my own—Riff Audio in Burbank. With legendary designer John H. Brandt and Nyback Builds, we turned a detached garage into a world-class studio. The first few years were tough, but three years in, I’m working with bands I grew up idolizing—The Casualties, NOFX, Suicidal Tendencies, The Interrupters, Circle Jerks and more.

At the core of it all, I just love making records. I want every band I work with to walk away inspired, proud, and ready to push their music further. It’s been a wild ride, and I’m beyond grateful for every step.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It’s never been a smooth ride, and I don’t think it ever will be. The music industry is relentless and unpredictable—one moment you’re drowning in work, the next you’re making tough calls just to keep things going. But if you truly love what you do, you don’t expect anything in return—you just give it everything you’ve got. So find what sets your soul on fire and chase it. You’re worth it!

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I’m a Music Producer and Engineer based in Los Angeles, specializing in punk music. I don’t know what I’m “known for,” but I hope it’s for being a rad dude who’s just stoked to hit record and make incredible records with my friends!

I’m incredibly proud of the work I’ve done, especially Niis’ debut LP Niis World—we poured everything into that record. I’m also beyond excited to be producing the new The Casualties record and have some other amazing projects in the works (that I can’t talk about just yet!).

As for what sets me apart? Honestly, I think we all have access to the same tools—it’s all about taste, creativity, and attitude. I bring my ears, my energy, and my absolute love for this music. If that resonates, follow me on socials @riff.audio.

What has been the most important lesson you’ve learned along your journey?
Don’t let your ego get in the way, and don’t let social media, or others convince you that you’re less than. If you’re lucky enough to find what you love, make sure it sets your soul on fire every single day. That’s what matters most.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://riffaudio.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/riff.audio/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/raul.cuellar.52
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@RiffAudio

Image Credits
Photo Credits include:

Thais Depaula
Nick Riggs
Bradley Riot
Charles McDougald
Zander Schloss