Hello, 

My name is Elisa Arteaga, I am one of the vocalists for the Rugged Soul Project. I have enjoyed working with these very talented group of guys, creating music and learning so much. If I had only one word to describe us, it would be "Rock!" because seriously we do! 

Originally I'm from California, but have had the pleasure of living in the beautiful state of Washington and the Big City of Chicago (my family traveled quite a bit). I have been singing since I was about 8 years old, that I can remember.

I have accompanied my father (a not so retired musician) for many evenings and family functions. I have experienced performing in and also competing in school choir, it was a lot  work, good experience, but most importantly fun. 

Several years back I began learning guitar to do some songwriting. Soon after I became ill and was diagnosed with leukemia (CML). I have found that music and songwriting has been a very positive form of therapy for me. I have always been passionate about music, creative writing and singing. After this unexpected event that changed my life, I made the decision to not hold back because time is definitely something we should not take for granted. Although, I have not completely reached remission, I know I will get there. I have great support from those that surround me, family and friends.

I enjoy all genres and especially love Soul, Jazz, Rock, Blues, Latin, Country and Folk.  I have received inspiration from many artists such as: Nina Simone, Melody Gardot, Chavela Vargas, Vicente Fernandez, Ramon Ayala, Mana, Lila Downs and Lahasa de Sela, Etta James, Ella Fitzgerald and Ray Charles--the list goes on. I believe that every genre brings out every kind of human emotion possible. Ah! music--the only possible means of time travel. It can transport you to that flicker of a moment in your past or inspire you towards what your future holds. 

I'm looking forward to meeting and hearing from you all!

~Elisa

Thanks for voting!

Who was the most influential female vocalist in Rock and Roll history?

Patsy Cline 0
Aretha Franklin 1
Stevie Nicks 1
Karen Carpenter 1
Diana Ross 0
Etta James 1
Cyndi Lauper 0
Gladys Knight 0
Ann Wilson 1
Pat Benatar 0
Other 2
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