Check out our interview with singer-songwriter Shannon K who recently released her hit single “RUN,” and the music video is currently at 7.9M+ views. This single perfectly encapsulates her raw, authentic talent. She has an impressive social media following – around 5 million across all socials and an extremely loyal fan base both domestically and internationally.
Shannon has worked with a number of high profile songwriters and producers including Poo Bear (Justin Bieber, Ed Sheeran etc.), and Infinity (Rita Ora, Mary J.Blige, Ludacris) and is the daughter of famed Bollywood singer Kumar Sanu.
Follow Shannon @shannonksinger
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Hi Shannon, please tell us a little about you?
Hey! I’m a singer and songwriter. I was born in India, raised in London, and now based in LA. I have always been passionate about music. I remember wanting to tag along with my dad to his recording sessions when I was little. I started learning music and drama during school in London.
Describe your sound in 3 words?
I hope my sound is empowering, inspirational and fun!
Who influenced you and why did you choose to make music?
Since childhood, Whitney Houston, Céline Dion, and Mariah Carey have been major influences in my singing. They all have so much to learn from, and it’s just incredible to see what they can do with their soulful, yet powerful voices. I like Ariana Grande as well. She has the coolest vibe and it’s always fun to watch her perform!
What’s the story behind your new single “RUN?”
The inspiration behind the song came from my past experiences, which inspired me to write the song. As a young South Asian girl, who aspires to become an artist and moved to the land of dreams (AKA Hollywood), I was very much insecure about myself. Insecurities also came from the negative things I heard from people tell me when I first started my career. I had people laugh at me when I shared my dreams with them, and told them what I wanted to be. All those memories made me want to write a song to motivate not just myself, but all the others who’ve gone through something similar or have lost their self confidence.
How is working with top producers like Poo Bear and infinity?
I have to say that I was able to learn so much from producers like Poo Bear, Infinity, Kyle Townsend, etc. It’s a privilege that as a musician I long for. I want to learn from everyone, and that’s what pushes me as musician.
Now tell us about your upcoming new celebrity podcast “Get Real?”
In the podcast we’ll explore the reality and unheard stories of artists, actors, musicians and influencers behind their success. It will be a fun show along with real experiences.
What is different from your podcast to other podcasts?
A lot of times people as an audience start dissing celebrities for their personal life, without knowing the hardships and sacrifices they had made along their way to success. I feel like this podcast will give an opportunity to hear the behind the scenes stories, which will hopefully motivate and inspire people to keep chasing their dreams. It’s going to be a very positive show, and I believe no one should be dissing the celebrities for their personal life or choices because we love them for their work.
What do you think is the secret to have a successful podcast?
Be consistent and explore around. Find a topic that you want to talk about or are passionate about, and have guests come over. Don’t feel pressured to talk a certain way. I tell myself to imagine I’m having a positive conversation with friends, and I think that’s the secret to a potentially successful podcast.
Which project is still on your bucket list to do?
There are so many projects on my bucket list. I wish I could share some, so I’ll keep it a secret for now.
If you could meet someone living or dead, who would it be and why?
I would love to meet Whitney Houston and somehow get into her studio sessions and watch her sing. And maybe even get some singing tips. She’s my inspiration! As an actor, I’d love to meet Tom Cruise and learn where he gets the courage to perform his stunts! He’s always ahead of it all and that’s what makes him a legend!
Best advice you’ve ever received?
I remember meeting Johnny Depp for the first time. He told me something that I will never forget. He said, “Always write from your heart. Not from your head.” He also gave me an acting tip to, “Be the character and live the character, even at the end of the day.” It meant so much to me because he’s been my favorite actor since I was a kid and I’ve always been a fan. I would watch Charlie and The Chocolate Factory or Pirates of the Caribbean almost every weekend when I was a kid.
What is your favorite song to belt out in the car/for karaoke?
“Take Me Home Country Roads” by John Denver
What is your own definition of happiness?
Being around family and friends.
How would you describe your fashion style?
I’d say comfort is a must in fashion, so I make sure that I’m comfortable in whatever I’m wearing. My style is mostly floral, feminine looks like Audrey Hepburn. I like wearing high and low dresses, pinafores, as well as, denim jackets, miniskirts and shorts. I love denim!
Where we can follow you?
You can follow me on FB and IG socials at @shannonksinger, as well as, you can check out my music on all streaming platforms including Spotify and Apple Music.
Photo Credit: Gabe
