Fast-rising session guitarist Sus Vasquez: "There was no other thing I wanted to do in life, I just wanted to play the guitar"

By MusicRadar
published

The Colombian-born Elixir® Strings artist has already collaborated with musicians including Jacob Collier, Karol G, Billy Porter and Blue October

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."

Sus Vasquez

(Image credit: Aaron Foster/Red Pepper Communications)

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. 

Elixir® Strings

(Image credit: Elixir® Strings)

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 Vasquez

(Image credit: Aaron Foster/Red Pepper Communications)

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 

MusicRadar
MusicRadar

MusicRadar is the number one website for music-makers of all kinds, be they guitarists, drummers, keyboard players, DJs or producers...

  • GEAR: We help musicians find the best gear with top-ranking gear round-ups and high-quality, authoritative reviews by a wide team of highly experienced experts.
  • TIPS: We also provide tuition, from bite-sized tips to advanced work-outs and guidance from recognised musicians and stars.
  • STARS: We talk to musicians and stars about their creative processes, and the nuts and bolts of their gear and technique. We give fans an insight into the craft of music-making that no other music website can.