“I love when I can beat my obstacles and know that I accomplished something because of my hard work.”
Women are killing it in the music industry, and song lovers couldn’t be happier! In our column, #WomenCrushWednesday, each week we’ll feature an awesome lady whose tunes are blowing up our playlists and ask them about their musical journey.
Today we speak with Shenna, who is a multi-layered threat if there ever was one! Perhaps this stems from her multi-cultural background, which has led to her writing and performing a slew of indie/pop/R&B-flavored tracks that have lit up the likes of radio stations and television show scores across the world. As the powerhouse woman releases her most recent video and plans some upcoming performances, she discusses her influences in music and fashion, plus more.
How did you get interested in music?
I was always encouraged to sing by my mom at a young age. She would sing songs she loved to me and I would memorize the lyrics and present them to her in our living room as a “mini concert.” I was raised in the same house as my older cousins growing up and would watch them rehearse for talent shows. I would even sneak into their shows and sing background for them around the age of 7 knowing I was too young to even be allowed entrance.
You have fans all over the world. What have you learned from performing in different countries?
I have learned that music truly is universal even if you speak different languages music can unite one another! It is a very cool feeling.
You come from a cross-cultural background. How has this influenced your music?
Yes! My father being Arabic and my mom African-American, I have been exposed to the best of both worlds in my opinion. My father’s side is very musical and I grew up watching videos of famous Middle Eastern singers and copying their vocal techniques. My mom raised me on so many different types of styles which has influenced my creativity.
On top of writing and recording music, you’re also a producer, actress, model, and more. How do you handle all of your creative careers?
I always put music first since it is my number one passion. I feel that modeling, acting, producing, etc. all tie in with the overall artist brand! When I hit the stage I become an actress giving a performance. When I model I am taking photos I can use for promotional purposes, and producing helps with the overall sound of my music.
What has your experience been like as a woman in the music industry?
It has honestly been challenging yet rewarding. I don’t want people to underestimate me because of my gender. I love when I can beat my obstacles and know that I accomplished something because of my hard work.
Your songs have been featured in a ton of television shows. What is that experience like?
It is a awesome feeling! A lot of times you have no idea what part your song will play and I am always watching the whole episode very focused and when I hear my song I start freaking out reaching for my camera to record it!
Can you talk to us a little about your most recent video, “Magenta?”
“Magenta” was inspired by a indescribable feeling and mood! The color Magenta is so bold and bright and that is the mood I wanted people to feel while hearing the song. In the video I have it that Magenta is a touch that immediately makes you feel confident and hot.
You also have a passion for fashion. Who are some icons that inspire you and what do you love about them?
I love Rihanna – she is an icon because she always switches up her style and owns it! Zendaya has the best stylist in the game in my opinion! She always owns the red carpet and is not afraid to be edgy and start new trends.
What’s coming up next for you?
I am planning on performing a lot in the spring/summer months in different cities! I’m also releasing some new music which I am very excited about!
Follow Shenna on Facebook | Twitter | Instagram
Rachel A.G. Gilman is a writer, a radio producer, and probably the girl wearing the Kinks shirt. Visit her website for more.
Have a female or femme-identifying artist we should profile? Send a pitch email to Rachel.
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