For many, the bond with grandparents is a bridge to the past, a tapestry linking our formative years with the wisdom and traditions of previous generations. For Jay Wheeler, however, his connection with his grandmother, Clara Luz, is a cherished tapestry that has woven the fabric of who he is as a man and an artist. "My life's most prized possession is my abuela," Wheeler declares. "She's a vibrant spirit who loves to dance and party, and I'm blessed to have her healthy and by my side."
Not only is she the heartbeat of any gathering, but she has also instilled in Wheeler the values that guide his life and artistic journey. With albums like "Emociones" and "Emociones 1.5," he's ushering in a fresh wave of romanticism. "She taught me to be respectful, to empathize with others, and to hold a healthy reverence for God," he says, adding that she also imparted the lesson of "loving the world with an open heart."
This caring nature is reflected in his music and his interactions with fans and media. Wheeler mentions that he avoids sunglasses so his fans can gaze into his eyes. As a sought-after musician, blending old-school crooner charm with the new wave of trap and reggaetón, his latest offering, "Musica Bueno Para Días Malos," is a futuristic exploration of the highs and lows of love.
But recently, Wheeler ventured into a different territory, releasing a cover of the timeless "Piel Canela." "I was nervous," he admits, "knowing it's a classic, something you don't want to tarnish. My intention wasn't to outdo the original, but to create my own rendition — one that reminds me of my grandmother."
The opportunity to cover the song arose through a collaboration with McDonald's, who were promoting their new "Grandma McFlurry" and offered fans a chance to meet the rising reggaetonero. For Wheeler, it was an honor to not only cover a timeless song but also to celebrate his abuelita, who sparked his love for music through her own enthusiasm for singing and dancing.
"My grandmother always dreamed of being a singer... and she instilled that dream in me from a young age," he laughs. "To this day, if you give her a stage and a microphone, she'll dance and sing her heart out." Wheeler recalls a childhood video of them singing and dancing like stars, and now, the McDonald's campaign is a testament to his rising star and marketability.
The duo even filmed a commercial together, advertising the new snack and a TikTok competition. Finally, his abuelita is getting her moment in the spotlight.
What lies ahead for Wheeler and Clara Luz? The singer is currently on tour, with a concert at Madison Square Garden next on his list. While urban music is his forte, Wheeler remains open to experimentation with different genres. "There's no limit to music," he says. "I'll always challenge myself to try new things, whether it's rock, classical, or anything else. I'll give it my best shot and put my unique touch on it."
Collaborations with his wife, fellow singer Zhamira Zambrano, are also on his radar. Perhaps a duet with his abuelita is in the cards for the future. Whatever he chooses to pursue, Clara Luz will be there, watching proudly, knowing that her passion has propelled her grandson toward a bright and successful future.
