Rock photographer Elliott may love old cars and music almost equally. But her passion to capture that one sliver of light and magic that tells the whole story of a rock show has driven her further. She's become the official concert photographer for the Tucson Weekly, Rhythm & Roots and all shows booked by the Rialto Theatre. A decade of almost-nightly concert shoots has brought her national attention via her Internet postings. "For those who enjoy it, music is medicine," she says. She may be the healthiest soul in town.
What was the first concert you attended?
My dad took me to numerous big-band concerts—Count Basie, Buddy Rich, Woody Herman. The first one I saw on my own was Laura Nyro at the Music Hall in Cincinnati.
What are you listening to these days?
Mostly roots, folk, alt.country and Americana—Justin Townes Earle, Joshua James, Langhorne Slim, Audra Mae, Cory Branan and, of course, Wilco.
What was the first album you owned?
Peter, Paul and Mary's Album 1700. My grandmother gave it to me. Cheap Thrills (Big Brother & the Holding Company featuring Janis Joplin) was the first one I bought myself.
What artist, genre or musical trend does everyone seem to love, but you just don't get?
The Police and Sting, and Paul McCartney post-Beatles.
What musical act, current or defunct, would you most like to see perform live?
Janis Joplin. Billie Holiday.
Musically speaking, what is your favorite guilty pleasure?
Classic soul and Motown. I listen to it when I'm driving around town.
What song would you like to have played at your funeral?
Most anything by k.d. lang, but especially "Hallelujah," and the Staples Singers' "I'll Take You There."
What band or artist changed your life, and how?
There's too many to pick just one, as my musical tastes have changed over the years. Laura Nyro was the soundtrack for most of my teen years.
Figurative gun to your head, what is your favorite album of all time?
Little Feat's Hoy-Hoy and Laura Nyro's Eli and the Thirteenth Confession. Kind of like saying "Which is your favorite pet?" They're all a favorite in a way.
