Sus Vasquez has gone from a high school student in Colombia dreaming of becoming a musician to playing arenas through her talent, hard work and determination.
"That was it, there was no way back," the Elixir® Strings artist remembers about her first time holding a guitar as a child. "It was just me and the guitar – I was totally obsessed, totally passionate. I didn't do anything else other than to practice."
Her focus and diligent work ethic meant that when Sus graduated high school there was only one goal.
"I said to my parents, I want to study music professionally. I'm gonna find a way."
It's crazy for me to think that today the main stages I get to be on are arenas and stadiums
She did. After completing a major in Jazz Guitar Performance at EAFIT University in her home country, Sus kept working to manifest her dream of playing to huge audiences which lead to a reality as a session guitarist playing arenas with Colombian reggaeton and latin pop star Karol G.
"It's crazy for me to think that today the main stages I get to be on are arenas and stadiums, and I've just worked so hard," says Sus. "You can't believe how much time and effort I've put into the guitar."
It's paying off. Now based in music industry hotspots LA and NYC, Sus has also worked with fellow musical talents including Jacob Collier, Blu DeTiger, Billy Porter, rock band Blue October and Puerto Rican singer Luis Fonsi. The need for versatility and consistency in the different genres Sus thrives in has meant her gear choices have to deliver too.
The tone is great, I love the feel
For her trusted guitars, including a Fender Custom Shop Thinline Telecaster with tremolo, Sus relies on Elixir® Electric Nickel Plated Steel Strings (10-46).
"I remember years ago, a friend of mine said, 'Elixir® Strings – these are the best strings," recalls Sus. "The best thing for me is they last forever. I love that. I'm not lazy about changing strings but I do love the feeling of not having to worry about that. The tone is great, I love the feel. It just feels so smooth to play with them – it makes my playing easier."
Sus is now looking ahead to take her playing further as she explores new projects.
"I'm just so happy and grateful to be able to travel the world and see all of these new places, new people… thanks to that piece of wood with strings."
Find out more about the full range of Elixir® Strings for electric, acoustic and bass guitar at elixirstrings.com
