Shyra Sanchez – Universal Love

By starrymag | August 13, 2019

By: Jamie Steinberg

 

 

Q) How would you describe your sound? 

A) Describing sound and music is SO difficult! I think the best way to approach music is through listening; that way you can describe it for yourself. That being said, I’ve always approached music through the lens of many different styles. I call it “my sound MESH MUSIC” – Metal, Evolutionary, Soul, Hip-Hop

I never hesitate to incorporate different genres and styles. I think it’s important to let the idea or music drive the creative energy and direction when writing. Sometimes songs create themselves and I’m just here to put it on tape.

Q) Who are some of your musical influences?

A) I’m glad you only asked for “SOME” of my musical influences lol. This interview would get very long if I had to list them all! Here’s a few that are spinning in my mind right now: Kylie Minogue, Sly and the Family Stone, Mark Ronson, Madonna, Blake Shelton

Q) Talk about the story behind your new song “Universal Love.”

A) The idea for “Universal Love” came from the belief that people should be accepting, accepted and treated with respect. Diversity makes life beautiful and we should celebrate our differences. We should allow people to live the life they want, as long as they’re not preventing others from doing the same. Many of these ideas have been around for a long time, but I feel that Universal Love can serve as a reminder to everybody to embody something greater.

Q) What makes this song so special for Pride Month?

A) Well, as I said, “Universal Love” came from my belief that people should be accepting, accepted and treated with respect. People that identify as LGBTQIA are sometimes seen as existing out of the “norm.” Please don’t ask me what “the norm” is! I don’t think anyone can answer that question. What I can say is that people that are marginalized or thought of as living outside of our “normal” society need love, support and representation. This song is for them.

Q) Which of the remix versions stands out to you the most?

A) Out of the many remixes that have been made, I’d encourage everyone to check out the one done by Bimbo Jones. I think they really captured the spirit of the song and truly created an ANTHEM. It’s absolutely fantastic!

Q) How much say do you have in the production of your music?

A) I’m very involved. For me, the writing and production process is my favorite part. I really enjoy the opportunity to be creative.

Q) Will there be a full LP or album coming from you in the near future?

A) There is definitely new music on the way! That being said, I’m experimenting with different formats so you may see some singles and remix albums.

Q) What can fans expect from a live Shyra Sanchez performance?

A) Energy! I really put a lot into my live performances. If someone is going to buy a ticket and take the time to go to a show, I want it to be an unforgettable experience. My fans are my family and I always make my shows a party full of love.

Q) Where are some of your favorite places to perform and what makes those locations so significant to you? 

A) I’ve been lucky enough to play all over the world and, honestly, it’s never about the location, it’s about the people. The most significant thing to me is providing an amazing experience for my fans.

Q) Who would you most like to collaborate with on a song in the future? 

A) There’s so many wonderful artists out there. A few that I would love to work with are Barbara Streisand, Mark Anthony, Pharrell, Mariah Carey, David Guetta and Rihanna.

Q) What album/band are you currently listening to and why do you dig them? 

A) I’ve had Anderson.Paak on repeat lately – I can’t get enough of his music. His collaborations, writing style and live show are amazing. And, of course, I always have my go to:  Prince. Every time I listen to him, I hear something new and different. He was truly a genius.

Q) You are a part of social media. Why is that such an important way for you to connect with your fans?

A) I think it just comes down to access. Social media provides worldwide connectivity and it’s the most convenient way to interact and share with people. I love being able to post new music or ideas and get instant feedback.

Q) What would you like to say to everyone who is a fan and supporter of you and your work? 

A) Thank you, thank you, thank you for supporting and believing in me! The positivity of my fans gives me the strength to create and fills me with joy. Creating music can touch lives and change the world and I’m so happy to have the opportunity to be a small part of that.