Here's the condensed version:

My Path to Music Journalism in Austin, the Live Music Capital

My Mexican father wanted his daughters to be a doctor and a lawyer, but I chose a different path as a music journalist in Austin, a city renowned for its live music scene.

From suburbs to stages: I grew up in southwest Austin, but spent my weekends sneaking into clubs, immersing myself in the city's diverse music scene, from blues to indie rock.

Underage and undercover: At 19, I started writing for the Austin Chronicle, covering the city's budding underground music scene. I became embedded in a circuit of young musicians, crowd surfing and attending afterparties in pursuit of the perfect story.

Rock 'n' roll revelation: Music, to me, is an emotional dialogue. I'm passionate about appreciating captivating performances and sharing the unique cultural experiences that Austin's music scene offers.

My Austin recommendations:

Bands:

• The Point for their fusion of jazz and contemporary guitar riffs
• Cazayoux for their eclectic afro-funk sound
• Nossas Novas, a multicultural blend of bossa nova and psychedelic rock

Venues:

• Sahara Lounge, a USA TODAY-acclaimed bar featuring Africa and Brazil nights
• C-Boy's Heart and Soul, a funk and blues refuge with an intimate upstairs Jade Room
• Continental Gallery, an intimate jazz listening room above a famous club