By: Karen Steinberg
Q) How would you describe your sound?
A) Unapologetically soulful.
Q) Who are some of your musical influences?
A) Aretha Franklin, Whitney Houston and Stevie Wonder.
Q) Your new EP Spirit is out now. What are some of the themes that you explore on this?
A) I call Spirit my happy album. I was in a very hopeful and passionate space, so many of the songs that reflect that. But I also have a breakup song in there because everyone’s not all happy in love…and I know I haven’t always been! lol
Q) What is your song writing process? Do you need music before you can create lyrics?
A) My songwriting process varies. Sometimes the lyrics come and then the melody. And sometimes it’s the opposite. Davy Nathan and I had the best time writing these songs. It was so natural and easy.
Q) How much of a hand do you have in the production of your music?
A) Davy Nathan and I wrote and produced all the songs together. We both had a very clear and shared vision of how we wanted the songs to sound and what instruments would be used. There were some very specific horn lines that I wanted on Spirit.
Q) There are some beautiful songs on the EP – my favorite being “Never Give Up on Love.” Which one(s) hold a special place in your heart and why?
A) It’s hard to choose a favorite because they’re all my “babies.” But “Something’s Coming” holds a special place in my heart because it was a song I performed while touring with Stevie Wonder as his special guest last Fall. It’s a song about believing that better days are ahead; and that’s a message I feel we all need right now.
Q) Which songs off Spirit are you looking forward to performing live or have you been enjoying already playing live?
A) I have enjoyed singing some of the songs live. One of my favorites to sing live is “I Don’t Care.” But I’m looking forward to touring these songs.
Q) What do you hope listeners take away from listening to your new EP as a whole – either as a message or emotion?
A) I’m hoping everyone will be encouraged to feel whatever emotion they have. Even if it hurts. The message I always want to leave is hope. Even through difficult circumstances, there’s always light if you choose to see it.
Q) We’re seeing you off Broadway at the moment in the show “Oh Happy Day.” What does it mean to you to step on that stage to perform night after night?
A) It has been quite rewarding and so much fun! I love the rush of only having one chance to get it right! You have to be so plugged in. And I have been taking great care of my instrument with constant hydration and a clean diet. The songs are a joy to sing and I’m energized and inspired by the whole cast.
Q) Who would you most like to collaborate with on a song in the future?
A) Usher. He’s such an incredible singer and we have shared the stage on multiple occasions. But it would be great to actually record a song.
Q) What artist/musician are you currently listening to and why do you dig them?
A) D’Angelo. We just lost him, but his music makes him immortal.
Q) You are a part of social media. Why is that such an important way for you to connect with your fans?
A) It’s a direct communication. No one is speaking for me. I love that authentic connection.
Q) What would you like to say to everyone who is a fan and supporter of you and your work?
A) Thank you for your enduring love and support!
SHELÉA TO RELEASE NEW SINGLE FOR THE HOLIDAYS TITLED “WANT THIS CHRISTMAS WITH YOU”
THE FESTIVE HOLIDAY TUNE STREAMS ON ALL PLATFORMS ON NOVEMBER 14