For over a decade, Jordan Ruiz, or known to many as Jordan Paradise, poured his heart into writing lyrics, rapping, and crafting music. It started as a passion project, a way to express his thoughts and artistry, with no promise of fame or financial return. But today, that passion has transformed into a full-fledged business: Paradise Lyric House, LLC, one of Saipan’s very first homegrown record labels.
What began as songwriting notebooks and late-night recording sessions has become a serious entrepreneurial journey. With the help of the CNMI Small Business Development Center (SBDC), Jordan took his dream and gave it structure, legally establishing his LLC, organizing his royalty streams, and setting up platforms for merchandise, performances, and creative services.
“I’ve been writing music for 10 years,” Jordan says, “but it wasn’t until about two years ago that I really started thinking—how can I make this sustainable? That’s when I decided to treat it like a business.”
Paradise Lyric House stands out not just because of the music, but because of the bold innovation behind it. In a place where the music industry is still emerging, Jordan has carved out a lane for custom songwriting for local businesses, a unique and untapped form of marketing that brings creativity directly into the commercial space.
“I’m not just performing,” he explains. “I’m writing custom songs for businesses, offering recording services, and giving direction to others trying to get started in this space.” His journey is not just about his own success, it’s about growing the music industry in the CNMI and showing others what’s possible with the right mindset and support.
His proudest moment so far? “Turning my 10-year passion into a real, registered business. That shift, going from something I did for love into something I do for a living, was huge.”
Jordan first connected with the SBDC after performing at their Christmas in July event. A friend told him they could help bring his record label idea to life and that conversation led to business planning support, marketing assistance, and educational workshops on federal contracting and tax preparation.
“SBDC made everything more accessible. They helped me add structure to what I wanted to offer,” Jordan says. “The process felt less overwhelming because I had support.”
Now, his sights are set on scaling. Jordan hopes to expand Paradise Lyric House across the CNMI, into the mainland U.S., and international markets. He wants to grow his influence and help others rise alongside him by contributing to a larger creative industry on Saipan.
His advice to aspiring entrepreneurs in the CNMI is simple but powerful. “Make a plan and follow through. Don’t let your ideas disappear with the wind. Prepare and act. You never know what can come from it.”
With talent, heart, and a growing business behind him, Jordan Paradise is proving that dreams don’t have to stay on paper. They can become soundtracks to success.