Shawndrell

Shawndrell was listed as a "Showcased Artist". (2011) - Goodfellas Radio

Shawndrell was named "Artist of the Month" with www.newhypenation.com (2010 ) - New Hype Nation

Exclusive Interview
Tell us about where you are from and how you got to this position today.
I am from Birmingham, Alabama and with lots of hard work and determination I have become a nationally recognized, Independent R&B Artist.

What are you currently working on and what can we expect to see?
Currently, I am working on an independent tour entitled “The Alpha Diamond- Indie Tour 2011? where I will showcase my original tunes in a theatrical type of performance… I am working hard to begin at the end of September 2011. Therefore, please continue to check my website for tour dates and other information.

Tell us about one of the hardest challenges you had to face in the industry?
One of the hardest challenges I’ve had to face is staying motivated after 10 years of trying to make it somewhere, or anywhere in the Music Industry. I have had hundreds of doors slammed in my face and I have run into just as many dead ends and empty promises from so called industry professionals… People lose faith in you after a while, and it’s difficult not to lose faith in yourself, but if you are driven by your passions to make it… YOU WILL! None of those set-backs will matter… Ever!

What was one of the biggest set backs in your career and how did you bounce back?
One of the biggest setbacks of my career was the fact of having to get a “real” job and put my dreams of being a “Super Star” Indie/Artist on hold… I had to put down the recording, the shows, the promotions and focus on the idea that I might not make it to be as big as I had always dreamed, that I needed to zero in on how I was going to pay my bills and make in life! So, I landed a career that I eventually began to hate because it was not what made me happy. Yet, I had no choice but to work a day job… but one day, although still keeping a day job, I chose to factor in my dreams of singing as a part time, evening and weekend venture… I had to do something, my ambitions wouldn’t go away, they were eating at me to the point that I couldn’t sleep at night and because I made that choice here I am today!

What are some things artists need to be careful of?
Be careful not to sign “vicious” contracts!!! Never sign anything without your own Entertainment Lawyer present! I don’t care how big it sounds; it should work in your favor the most… Don’t put your trust in anyone upfront! Just be smart and take your time before you make those types of decisions. Remember to learn all you can about the business side of the industry so you’ll be prepared when the time comes. Last but not least, copyright your work!

What suggestions do you have for other artists like yourself?
Pray a lot (to whomever your GOD is)! Be a fighter, push hard, NEVER take “No” for an answer, and if no one else on the planet believes in you, or your dreams, believe in yourself! Train your mind to think like an entrepreneur, “you-the artist”, as a business and be sure to brand yourself with hard work, good production, showing up on time, and rocking out big time! Give every shot, your best shot… it will pay off.

What are the best ways to sell your products as an artist?
I recommend getting affiliated with a company called “Tunecore”, they will help you get your music on iTunes and quite a few other, popular, online distribution companies. Also, the trunk of your car is where you should always stock your Merch, instant promo & cash! Keep it old school!

What is one of your favorite ways to promote yourself and your music?
One of my favorite ways is submitting my music to online radio stations; they almost always support indie music. Plus, I keep an updated copy of “The Indie Bible” there are many sources listed there to help you get that done and stay current. My second favorite way, if you want to know, is doing shows… I like to let people know I’m not just a pretty face, but a REAL talent.

Any last comments or statements?
Well, I must say that GOD has been great to me! I have been through a lot over the years… I am still going through a lot, but I am going to continue to show the World who “Shawndrell, Singer/Songwriter” really is and I will NEVER give up or ever quit entertainment, until I have accomplished that goal. After that goal is met, I am going to show them something else… “Shawndrell”, Actress/Producer! Well, that’s normally what comes next… Visit my website, www.shawndrell.com , join my mailing list and sign my guestbook! If you like/love me, purchase my single from iTunes! Thank you WWS for this opportunity! GOD Bless!
- WWS Magazine