Shady Blue is a singer, songwriter, recording artiste, entrepreneur and a project management and business change professional. In this interview with TAYO GESINDE, she speaks on her musical career and how she has been combining it with the home front. Excerpts:
How would you describe your growing up?
I was born and raised in Nigeria, West Africa, to a Nigerian – Yoruba father from Ibadan, Oyo State, and bi-racial mother (half and half English) and moved to London as a teenager. During my early years, I was influenced by her father’s music- a renowned Jazz musician/producer in Nigeria and USA. At the age of six, I started singing at the local church and at eight years, I became the lead singer of the church choir. I delivered exceptional three-part harmonies and captured audiences with my soothing voice and wide vocal range (Alto, soprano and tenor).I also write, co-produce and arrange my music with instrumentation alongside producers. I have always been very passionate about music from a very tender age. I perform regularly with my band.
Why I took a break from my musical career.
I was blessed with my first son born on New year’s day in 2012 and my second son in 2014 so, I had to take the necessary break to be a mother to my two sons while working full-time to support them and make sure they are well taken care of. I am now returning to chase my dream and passion doing what I love the most apart from raising my two boys – music. I have two albums independently released on iTunes and currently working on a new EP to be released shortly. I have just released a new single from the EP called ‘Chance on me’ – a song written by my friend and sister, Tuoyo James.
What motivated me to go into music
My family home was a place of music and I have always had the desire to become a great singer and musician. I was motivated by my father; a genius, multi-instrumentalist and the various talented musicians that came to our home to rehearse and record music as a child.
How I get inspiration for my songs
I get the inspiration for most of my songs from real life experiences, my thoughts and sometimes just the sound of the music brings out the lyrics, melody and direction.
My role models in the industry
My roles models are greats such as Michael Jackson, Incognito, (Earth, Wind & Fire), Rhian Benson, Fela Anikulapo Kuti, Alicia Keys, Anita Baker, Jill Scott, Eryka Badu, George Benson, Prince, Maxwell, Lisa Lisa, Whitney Houston, Ella Fitzgerald, , Sade Adu, Boyz II Men, Madonna, Patti Labelle, Reginna Belle, Anita Baker, Norah Jones, Dido, Viviene Green and many more.
My unique selling point
I have a unique jazzy, bluesy voice with strong natural vibrato. My sound is very unique. Basically, you will recognise my voice on radio without seeing me. I have a very unique tone to my voice.
A God-fearing, caring and loving person. I was born on a Wednesday so, I am adventurous with a great sense of humour. I love to enjoy life. I have a confident personality. I am sensitive, warm and considerate towards people. I daydream about love and can write beautifully about it. I am naturally good at entertaining. I am also friendly, charming and hospitable. I have a very kind heart.
Philosophy of life.
I always try to stay positive, live a positive life and enjoy living instead of living a sad life
How I have been combining my career with the home front
It hasn’t been easy but with God’s grace, I have been able to combine my career, my full-time day job and my home successfully.
How I have been handling advances from male admirers
To be honest, I hardly get any advances from male admirers because I proudly show off my other half always and everyone knows I am already taken.
How I handle negative press
I just dust it off and move on. I don’t let it get to me.
My advice to up-and-coming artistes
Never give up on your dream. Keep trying till you get there. Give your best in all you do.
Definition of style
My definition of style is to be unique and classy.
Beauty regimen
I love doing my nails; fingers and toes. I love a good manicure and pedicure. I don’t wear makeup everyday as I love to let my face breathe. I don’t really have a beauty regimen. I love my cocoa butter body cream.
Fashion obsessions
Jeans. I love denim and trainers or flat shoes.
Special treat
If I want to pamper myself, I will have a full body massage or go to a spa and relax.
Favourite designers
Shady Blue. I design denim. I don’t wear designers to be honest. I wear what no one else would wear as I don’t like to mimic others as I like to be unique.
My take on cosmetic surgery
I have nothing against cosmetic surgery.
My view on toning
Some people genuinely have skin pigmentation issues and therefore need to treat the skin to get an even tone. However, changing your skin colour because you are trying to fit into the society is totally wrong. What those that bleach don’t realise is the fact that they are removing layers of their skin and risk getting cancer.
Opinion on provocative dressing
Provocative dressing doesn’t make you sexy but trashy.
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