Photographer: Gino Suvino-Vinatieri
Santiago "Shago" Elizondo has been playing the guitar, among other instruments, since the age of thirteen. Born in Bakersfield, California, Shago currently resides in Charlotte, North Carolina. He is a 2013 graduate of the University of North Carolina at Charlotte, earning his bachelor's degree with a major in English and a minor in Technical Writing--though he considers himself a student of music above all else.
From his teenage to early adult years, Shago was a part of several original groups, including Lucky Five, Electric Cartel, and The Bear Romantic. With roots as a progressive rock guitarist, his style of playing has grown to blend elements of blues, R&B, gospel and jazz with his rock beginnings.
Shago has toured with Grammy Award-winning artists such as Fantasia and Anthony Hamilton, and other artists such as Marc E Bassy and Leela James. He has performed on TV shows such as Good Morning America, Kelly and Ryan, and has played to audiences of over 30,000 people. Recently, Shago performed the National Anthem at the 2019 NBA All Star Game with Anthony Hamilton to an audience of 6.8 million. He is available for hire as a live and studio musician, and he also has home-recording capabilities. Please contact for rates.
Shago proudly endorses Breedlove Guitars Empire Ears, Strymon Engineering, and Elixir Strings.
