Miami native Roosevelt Collier for years has been stretching the boundaries of which sounds can be manipulated by the pedal steel guitar. He came to this publication's attention in 2005, when his playing uplifted congregations at Pentecostal churches.

He performed in a six-member "sacred steel" group, comprising family members known as the Lee Boys. The Lee Boys, with their blues-meets-gospel formula, were able to gig at international venues and, more surprising, play to audiences outside churches after finding a loyal following on the jam-band circuit.

As a solo artist, Collier has found an even larger fan base, which he has earned one perspiration-heavy gig at a time. His live shows are packed with raw passion, and even from the seated position that the pedal steel guitar mandates, he still sweats enough to make a CrossFit instructor proud.