Today we’d like to introduce you to RUSTY STEELE
Hi RUSTY, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
Growing up in a low-income family, I discovered skateboarding around the 4th grade, which eventually led me to punk and metal music. This passion introduced me to live shows and a strong DIY ethos, which has been central to everything I’m involved in. Over the years, I’ve been part of multiple bands and have helped with venues like Fallout Shelter in Des Moines and New Direction in Fargo. My journey has also allowed me to build a solid network with bands and artists from across the country, fostering a strong sense of community and collaboration.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It definitely hasn’t been an easy journey, largely due to my own internal doubts and constant questioning of whether I’m on the right path. A lot of what I do is driven by deep emotional intent. When it comes to my music, over the past 30 years, you can hear that struggle and anguish in each band and project I’ve been part of. I believe that vulnerability is what allows others to connect with it on a personal level
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
By day, I serve as the president of Discontent, a retail company originally founded in Fargo. We’ve since expanded into Minnesota, North Dakota, Montana, and Colorado. I’ve been with the company since 2003, when I moved from Des Moines, IA, to Moorhead, MN. Over the past 30 years, I’ve also been involved in several touring bands, including Eclipse of Eden (Sioux City), Dispensing of False Halos (Des Moines), Battlefields (Minneapolis-Fargo), and now Oriska (Minneapolis-Fargo-Montana). On a personal note, I’m a family man, sharing my life with my amazing partner, Chelsey Dahlstrom of Trapper Studio born in Maple Lake, and our two incredible sons, Edison and Oliver. They’ve all been incredibly supportive of my music endeavors. My work place and staff have always been supportive of my music too!
Is there something surprising that you feel even people who know you might not know about?
Many people perceive me as serious and no-nonsense, someone who’s all about business. In reality, I’m a peaceful person, which tends to surprise people when they find out I’m the lead vocalist in a metal band and run multiple stores.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://oriskalive.com
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/oriskaband
- Facebook: https://facebook.com/oriskamusic
- Other: https://open.spotify.com/artist/2zOWD0Y6zdDYYblFPI1uEX?si=63V3CoyHRU206IInktDupA
