Meet Rachel Escalera | Singer/Songwriter/Zumba Instructor

We had the good fortune of connecting with Rachel Escalera and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Rachel, why did you pursue a creative career?
I think we all have unique gifts and abilities that we can share with the world. Singing and dancing are my passion. I have found a way to connect with others and make a career out of the things I love to do most.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
Proud moments of my career: Being signed to Eyecon/Universal was a big accomplishment. Getting signed as an artist is not something every singer gets to experience and although it wasn’t easy I’m grateful I was able to achieve that goal. Having the opportunity to traveling all around the world as one of Sinbad’s singers was an unforgettable experience. And making a positive impact on my Zumba student’s lives is priceless.

There were many challenges along the way but I kept moving forward because I had and still have the belief that I can accomplish anything as long as I don’t give up. The first step is to DECIDE that you are going to do it, you don’t have to know how it’s going to happen or what you need to do. The ideas, inspired thoughts, people, and opportunities will start showing up. But many times the reason people don’t move forward with their goals and desires is because they simply don’t decide they are going to do it, they come up with excuses of how they can’t do it.

Being disciplined, focused, responsible, professional, and constantly working on my skills has been key to the success I’ve had so far. I’m open to learn something new everyday through books, articles, seminars, podcasts, Youtube videos, online courses, master classes and all of the people I interact with.

I feel that we are on this earth to be happy, to love, to grow, and help each other.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I would start the day by going on a hike. One of my favorite spots is Escondido Falls in Malibu. I would then take my Zumba class (9am-10am at Sherman Oaks/Van Nuys Rec Center). After all of that working out, I would go have brunch at my favorite spot: Cici’s cafe in Tarzana, Ca. I highly recommend the Green Tea Tiramisu Pancakes they are huge and delectable! I would spend the day at The Huntington Botanical Gardens in Pasadena. It’s beautiful and a great place to take the family. I would have dinner at Marugame Monzu in downtown L.A. (they have delicious homemade ramen noodles you can see them prepare). If it’s a Friday night I would go to Bogie’s Bar in Westlake Village they have live music 8pm-10pm (I happen to be one of the singers of the Sidetracs band who performs there) and there’s a dj from 10pm-1am. Then I would end the night at Happy Days Cafe in Sherman Oaks (they are open until 12am). They have delicious gluten-free churros and vegan coconut ice cream.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Selena Qunitanilla was a big inspiration to me. Not only was she an extraordinary performer but she had a beautiful personality and drive. Another shoutout to Beto Perez the founder of Zumba. Because of Beto I’m able to do what I love and help people live healthier lives. Bob Proctor is an inspirational speaker and author that helped me get in the right mindset to pursue my goals. My entire family and especially my son Ocean is a huge reason for my success and drive.

Website: rachele.zumba.com

Instagram: @rachelescalera

Youtube: Rachel Escalera

Image Credits
Evelyn Escalera Matt Misisco