If you’ve ever found yourself lost in the presence of God during a worship moment led by UPPERROOM, chances are you’ve heard the unmistakable voice and heart of Elyssa Figueroa. Formerly known as Elyssa Smith, she is one of the most beloved worship leaders and songwriters in the global worship landscape.

Born and raised in Borger, Texas, Elyssa’s journey into full-time ministry began when she moved to Dallas in 2010 to attend Christ for the Nations Institute. Just a few years later, she became a cornerstone of the UPPERROOM community—leading worship, writing songs, and faithfully ministering in the prayer room since 2013.

One of Elyssa’s most powerful contributions to modern worship is the song “Surrounded (Fight My Battles)”—a spontaneous moment that became a global anthem, covered by churches and artists worldwide. The song embodies Elyssa’s heart: honest, Spirit-led, and deeply rooted in communion with Jesus.

But her impact doesn’t stop there.

Elyssa’s solo debut album delivers a rich soundscape that merges epic production with raw intimacy. Drawing comparisons to artists like Lauren Daigle and Imogen Heap, her songwriting invites listeners into holy spaces of encounter. Songs like “Catch Me,” “Hey Jesus,” and “Lovesick”—featuring voices like Steffany Gretzinger—reveal Elyssa’s poetic vulnerability and unshakable faith.

Outside of music, Elyssa co-hosts The Handlebar Podcast, where she and her husband Joel Figueroa (also a worship leader at UPPERROOM) have open, insightful conversations about life, faith, and community. Together, the couple serves not only as worship leaders but as voices of spiritual depth and authenticity within the UPPERROOM family.

At the heart of everything Elyssa does is a longing to lead people into deeper encounters with Jesus. Whether she’s ministering in a packed prayer room or quietly penning lyrics in devotion, her message is clear: God is near, and He’s worth our everything.

Notable Songs by Elyssa Figueroa

1. Surrounded (Fight My Battles) [Live]
   One of Elyssa’s most recognized songs, known for its powerful declaration of trust in God’s protection.

2. My Reward (Live)
   A heartfelt song expressing contentment in God’s presence, regardless of life’s circumstances.

3. On The Altar
   A song of surrender, laying one’s life before God as a living sacrifice.

4. Rest On Us (feat. Elyssa Figueroa) [Live]
   A collaborative piece inviting the Holy Spirit to dwell among the worshippers.

5. Open The Scroll (Live)
   A song that speaks to the worthiness of Jesus to open the scroll and reveal God’s plans.

6. The Father’s Song (Live)
   An intimate song reflecting on the Father’s love and voice over His children.

7. Living Sacrifice (Live)
   A declaration of offering oneself wholly to God in worship and service.

8. Story So Precious (Live)
   A narrative song that treasures the personal journey and testimony of faith.

9. Hey Jesus [feat. Steffany Gretzinger]
   A collaborative song that portrays an honest conversation with Jesus, expressing deep longing and vulnerability.

10. You Always Restore (The Winter Is Over) (Live)
    A song of hope and renewal, celebrating God’s restorative power.

These songs showcase Elyssa Figueroa’s dedication to leading worship that fosters deep encounters with God, characterized by authenticity and a heartfelt pursuit of His presence.

Marriage

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