INTERVIEW: Shenna

INTERVIEW:

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PHOTO CREDIT: Curtis Bryant 

Shenna

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IT is always interesting speaking with Shenna

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and finding out what she is up to. The American songwriter has been telling me about her new song, Conversation, and how it all got started. I ask her whether we will get more cuts next year; which artists inspire her the most – she tells me whether she takes strength from the best of the female mainstream right now.

Shenna talks about a favourite musical memory; which three albums mean the most to her; if there are tour dates coming up; what the chances are of a U.K. trip – she ends the interview by choosing a fantastic song.

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Hi, Shenna. How are you? How has your week been?

I am great! Getting ready for a big show this weekend. Thanks for interviewing me!

For those new to your music; can you introduce yourself, please?

Yes! My name is Shenna and I am an Indie-Pop artist from Virginia, currently based in the busy city of New York. I create music that expresses embracing individuality and self-expression.

Conversation is your latest single. What is the story behind the song?

My new single, Conversation, is about putting all distractions aside and making sure both people are on the same page to continue a healthy relationship. A lot of times we hide behind social media and words getting mixed up by others passing along the gossip. This song is about a face-to-face conversation with those two people addressing their feelings.

How do you think your music has evolved since the start? Do you think you are a more confident and bold artist now?

My music has evolved by becoming confident with more depth in my lyrical expression over time. I am definitely more vocal and bolder now with my statements!

Is there going to be more material coming later in the year do you reckon?

Yes, of course, and I am so excited for you to hear and see it! My music video for Conversation is currently in-the-works!

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PHOTO CREDIT: Malcolm Fong

There are some strong women in the Pop mainstream. Would you say you take a lot of power from them?!

I definitely study who is dominating the top-40 on the Billboard charts. I study their growth but, most importantly, I watch new artists like Dua Lipa and the steps they took to get to the next level

Who are the artists that inspire you and led you to get into songwriting?

I love Corinne Bailey Rae. Her lyrics and vibe captivate me and make me feel like I am in a different setting. I also love Bruno Mars and Rihanna because they stay true to who they are and make their following feel as if we truly know them.

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PHOTO CREDIT: Curtis Bryant

What do you hope to achieve by the end of 2018?

I want to grow my fan base dramatically! I would love to go on tour with a major artist or, at least, secure a slot for 2019!

Have you got a favourite memory from your time in music – the one that sticks in the mind?

I think one of my favourite memories was my band taking a thirteen-hour bus ride to Toronto from N.Y.C. to perform at the Virgin Mobile Mod Club. The venue has had many national acts perform there and the responses we received made us feel like we already made it. It was definitely a moment.

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Which three albums mean the most to you would you say (and why)?

These are all so different, but I will start with Corinne Bailey Rae’s self-titled project because that is when I realized she was my favourite artist due to her expression in telling the story of her lyrics.

I love Mariah Carey’s The Emancipation of Mimi because every song on the project was a hit in my opinion - and so well written.

Last, but not least, I have to say my album, Made of Gold, because each song told a different story of how I felt during that time - and showed my growth from Dream in Color until now.

If you could support any musician alive today, and choose your own rider, what would that entail?

Wow; that is a tough one. Well. I would have to pick Beyoncé because her fans are so loyal and she is amazing! Not to mention I could have anything in my rider!

Even if I got to choose things I am not that high maintenance so I think just sparkling water, fruit; hot jasmine tea, a humidifier and possibly a massage chair (laughs). It is crazy because I do not get stage fright at all but I do over-think before I hit the stage, so I like to try my best to relax before a show.

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PHOTO CREDIT: Curtis Bryant

Can we see you on tour soon? What dates are coming up?

Yes! I know you’re in the U.K. too so I plan on coming back out soon in the fall or early-winter!

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Work as hard as you can and make sure you always set a value to yourself. If this is your career, protect your brand like your life depends on it because it kind of does!

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IN THIS PHOTO: Alex Vargas

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Yes! He is not super-new but some people may have never heard his music: Alex Vargas is amazing!

Do you get much time to chill away from music? How do you unwind?

No. I go crazy if I do not do music, honestly, or something in the music business realm. The only way I unwind, sometimes, is by reverting into adult-child mode (I like to call it) and watching cartoons like Rick and Morty and Family Guy for a mental break-day (or few hours).

Finally, and for being a good sport; you can choose a song and I’ll play it here (not any of your music - I will do that).

Still Woozy - Goodie Bag

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