What makes Solista pero no solo by Frankie Ruiz notable?

The album features several hits that contributed significantly to the salsa genre's popularity during the mid-1980s, with tracks like Ahora me toca a mí and La cura becoming staples at dance clubs and parties. Its commercial success helped solidify Ruiz’s status as a leading figure in salsa music, influencing countless artists who followed. Released in 1985, Solista pero no solo is Frankie Ruiz's debut album, marking his entrance into the salsa scene after establishing himself as a prominent figure in New York's Latin music community. This album came at a time when Ruiz was transitioning from his role in various orchestras to a solo career, showcasing his distinctive voice and style.

How many songs are on Solista pero no solo?

Solista pero no solo has 8 tracks, running approximately 39 minutes.

Solista pero no solo

Frankie Ruiz · 1985

39 min · 8 tracks · salsa

A vibrant fusion of salsa rhythms and heartfelt boleros that captures the essence of romance and passion.

Spotify Apple Music

YouTube Music YouTube Deezer Bandcamp SoundCloud

Own it: Amazon eBay

Top tracks — play these first

→
Ahora me toca a mí — This track serves as an anthem of empowerment, capturing the resilience and determination often celebrated in salsa music, making it a dance favorite.
→
La cura — La cura stands out for its romantic lyrics and infectious rhythm, illustrating Ruiz's ability to blend emotional depth with lively salsa beats.
→
Como le gustan a usted — With its catchy melody and playful lyrics, this track exemplifies the charm and flair of Ruiz's style, appealing to both dancers and listeners alike.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

48 /100

Foothills

Higher than 19% of albums we've rated

The album showcases solid songwriting and vibrant performances typical of mid-80s salsa but lacks standout depth.

What we noticed

Tracks often feature call-and-response vocals, creating an engaging interaction between the lead singer and the backing chorus.
Several songs incorporate traditional salsa instrumentation, including brass and percussion, which enhances the rhythmic complexity throughout.

Composition 25% of the score: 6/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 5/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 6/10

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

1 Ahora me toca a mí 4:22
2 Esta cobardía 5:44
3 Como le gustan a usted 4:15
4 Tú con él 5:01
5 La cura 4:58
6 El camionero 5:25
7 Si esa mujer me dice que sí 4:31
8 Amor de un momento 4:45

What to play next

Listen next

Voy pa' encima

1987

Go back to

Un Triángulo de Triunfo

1981

Full Frankie Ruiz discography Artists like Frankie Ruiz

bolero merengue salsa

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata