In the realm of celestial melodies, Sha Sha Jones, pronounced with an ethereal cadence as "Shah Shah," not only reigns as the BPM Spotlight Artist of the Week, but also emerges as an extraordinary beacon, a confirmation of the unparalleled prowess of contemporary singer-songwriters. Hailing from the artistic cradle of Spencer, Oklahoma, Sha Sha transcends the conventional boundaries of musical expression with a voice that is nothing short of angelic—a resounding affirmation of the transcendental heights of vocal artistry.
Born Shaunice Jones, she brings not only a name but a soulful identity to her enchanting melodies, carving a path that reverberates with the celestial essence of her musical journey. This multi-talented virtuoso is not merely confined to the label of a vocalist; rather, she effortlessly assumes the roles of a lyricist, a visionary producer of both sonorous compositions and captivating visuals. Sha Sha, a self-starter and a paragon of unwavering determination, manifests an unmatched vision of success, navigating her artistic journey with a poised and confident stride.
Her command of lyrical artistry, informed by a spiritual and emotional depth, allows her to weave narratives from the intimate perspective of a woman, elevating her into the echelons of revered contemporary artists. In Sha Sha Jones, we find not just a singer but a maestro sculpting a sonic landscape that harmonizes with the very essence of the human soul.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------BPM: As a child, you began writing poetry and songs at an early age. How did those early expressions of creativity influence your songwriting style and the themes you explore in your music today?
Sha Sha Jones: I started writing on paper at the age of 10. So, because I was a child, haha, I could only talk about so many things--whether it was facing a bully at school, overcoming life’s obstacles, or expressing feelings from someone else’s perspective. Writing poetry allowed me to express my feelings with no sound, even if no one understood it but me. However, when it came to songwriting, I learned how to be more considerate and open to conversation.
BPM: You transitioned from Oklahoma to various cities in pursuit of your career. How did these shifts in the environment impact your approach to music, both creatively and professionally?
Sha Sha Jones: Wow! Traveling to different states really opened my eyes in all aspects. I’m always excited to explore new scenery—everything from the air that smells different, to fashion styles, accents, and food--EVERYTHING! Leaving my hometown wasn’t hard for me because I knew that music was what I was going to pursue. To this day, I easily adjust to new environments. However, it took a lot of tears and frustrations to realize that greatness takes time. But I was always willing to wait. If I hadn’t traveled, I wouldn’t have worked with nor met some of the greatest writers, producers, and industry legends of all time.
BPM: Your songwriting has been described as boundary-breaking. Can you talk about a song or a lyric you've written that holds special significance for you and how it represents your creative evolution?
Sha Sha Jones: I always have to start with the song that is still in rotation to this day, and that is a song I wrote called, “Lose You.” This song, in my opinion, not only relates to everyone but it touches on issues that couples struggle with on the daily from both sides and finds a solution. One person would say, “You listen to your friends who tell you what you should do instead of listening to your baby.” Then the other would say, “I feel like all your trust jumped right out the window, cause every time we talk you never believe me.” All for them both to agree that after all they have been through, they want to know what it is that needs to be done in order to make it work. This holds significance because it allows me to be vulnerable to holding truth accountable and creating solutions.
BPM: You've collaborated with a diverse range of artists, from Kool & the Gang, Mya, and Omarion, just to name a few. Could you share an anecdote or memorable experience from collaborating with a particular artist that significantly influenced your approach to music or songwriting?
Sha Sha Jones: It is such a thrill creating with the legendary Kool & the Gang! Legendary isn’t even the word to describe what I’ve experienced. When I first moved to Cali, that was my very first session. Who was kind of nervous? Me, hahaha. It would be 9 to 10 hours of pure musicality. Bringing in harp players, saxophonists, guitar and drum players, and writers. I was really honored to receive so much love from them and their respects to me as a performing artist and songwriter. I’ve also gained so much knowledge on how to simplify my writing as well as soaking in industry gems. I continue to celebrate with them with their new album, “People Just Wanna Have Fun,” as I have their first single, featuring myself along with 8 other songs that I co-wrote!
BPM: As an artist who transitioned from creating YouTube videos to becoming an internet sensation, how have you noticed your connection with your audience evolve as your career has progressed?
Sha Sha Jones: YouTube played a huge role in defining my position to the public eye. I learned from being on YouTube that my voice and songwriting were appreciated and received. Not only was my music relatable but I opened up myself some by going live to engage and grow with others. Back then it was Ustream now it’s TikTok live, haha. Like I mentioned before, I’m easy to adjust and understanding who is building with me helps me figure out solutions around me.
BPM: What’s been the most surprising or unexpected aspect of your transition into the professional music world?
Sha Sha Jones: Having to learn about the music business! Before I moved out of Oklahoma, I just wanted to sing and perform, I did not know that there were other aspects attached to music, like lawyers, contracts, royalties, and hundreds more. I am so grateful to have been brought up under my team, Music Mind, because I was surrounded by managers who tailored their way through the villains while keeping me headstrong in wisdom and at peace within to still create.
BPM: "Lose You" was a remarkable success, ranking 98 in the top 200 on the Billboard charts in 2019. How did that experience influence or change your approach to your subsequent projects, and what did you learn from that particular achievement?
Sha Sha Jones: “Lose You” charting let me know that when it is my given time, I am going to be unshakeable. I learned that being true to oneself will take you further than portraying someone else’s story. Writing for others, it was imperative for me to be in the studio directly with them so I could understand them, and connect with their spirit in order to get a feel of the truth.
BPM: Your company, Music Mind, signifies a new chapter in your career. How do you envision this platform impacting the music industry, and what differentiates it from other avenues or labels in the business?
Sha Sha Jones: I’ve always told my team, Music Mind, from the jump that my company will be fair, forever learning, and respected. I started building this company in 2009 and growing up into the internet realm has given me insight on how to extend services to other talents. Music Mind represents a pivotal shift in my career, aiming to revolutionize the music industry by prioritizing artist empowerment and innovation. This platform will distinguish itself through cutting-edge collaboration tools, transparent artist contracts, and a focus on nurturing diverse talents. I plan to foster a dynamic community that redefines industry norms.
BPM: Your aura is often described as a beacon of positivity and light. Despite your significant journey in music, your humility remains evident. How do you manage to balance staying grounded while acknowledging and celebrating your achievements?
Sha Sha Jones: In short, GOD. The Most High. My faith and works for God always come first because I see Him as the end all be all. Music is one of the many gifts I was blessed with, and it can be taken away at any time. So, I practice love and peace in my career and everyday lifestyle. My aim is to please God, love Him, and be patient until He answers. I believe greater things are in the works for me if I continue to do right all around. I’ve grown stronger in my faith and works, and it has only caused me to shine my light even brighter among others. I love to love and The Most High has protected me with the most genuine, loving people like my family, my husband and children, friends, my music team, and last but not least my ShaLights.
BPM: Do you find greater satisfaction in expressing your artistry as an artist or in the process of songwriting for other performers? How do these two roles differ in terms of personal fulfillment and creative expression for you?
Sha Sha Jones: I enjoy performing my songs on stage. It is an amazing feeling hearing the crowd hear your song that you wrote and relate to it in ways that change their lives. That’s one feeling I wouldn’t trade. I still love sitting down with other artists and creating a song that fits them like a glove. In the end though, songwriting displays a version of you whether it's yours or someone else's.
BPM: Collaborating with established producers like Ron “Neff-U” Feemster and Nisan Stewart, how did these experiences reflect or contrast with the early days of your musical journey?
Sha Sha Jones: Working with creatives like Ron Feemster has been some of the most inspiring times for me. I’ve learned how to take notes easier and step out of my comfort zone vocally. In Oklahoma, I was accustomed to writing at home by myself and recording the song in the studio, whereas with Ron, I was influenced to write on the spot and try different ideas vocally instead of sticking to the first idea. Ron has been such a great musical mentor to me.
BPM: The title “Always Ready” seems to embody your approach to your career. Can you tell us about a moment or a phase in your life when this motto particularly guided or defined your actions and decisions?
Sha Sha Jones: Absolutely, one attribute that I value dearly is my ability to be ready to sing. Outside of YouTube, I enlisted a “Demo Recording” inquiry for songwriters who needed a vocalist to sing their songs so they could shop it to other artists. At that time, I was focused on delivering the demo but later realized that constantly doing these demos, along with self-recording, strengthened my voice and showed me how to vocal produce myself instead of depending on a recording studio. Whatever venture I take on now, I look at it as something that I am preparing for and will be ready for when the time comes in the present or future.
BPM: Regarding your latest track, “Playboy Q,” recognized as a siren anthem of love's deception, can you share how you gathered inspiration for this song? Do you typically draw inspiration from relatable topics, or does songwriting come naturally to you?
Sha Sha Jones: Most of my songs stem from personal experiences or observations from others. “Playboy Q” was a fun experiment that I tried out with my ShaLights on TikTok live. I was creating an acapella which I call (Shacapella) and I was simply asking for personal experiences from them. I copied and pasted it together and made it make sense. One funny thing about writing this one was, when I was finished with the Shacapella and ready to write and sing the lyrics, someone had joined the live apparently at the last minute, just throwing so many ideas to what was already finished haha. So, I started singing, “Where was you at in the beginning.” I loved how I was singing it and decided to keep it. I low-key put homie on the spot but if I didn’t call him out, “Playboy Q” wouldn’t sound the way it does now.
BPM: Your Open House Live sessions on TikTok, where you engage in live music creation and even craft personalized music pieces with your fans, have become quite popular. It was during one of these sessions that I stumbled upon your remarkable talent. The customized ringtones seem to be a fan favorite. How do these sessions contribute to your enjoyment of interacting with your fanbase, and what do you find most fulfilling about this collaborative creative process?
Sha Sha Jones: Before I was able to go live on TikTok, I studied, studied, and studied, looking for ways to promote myself in such a fresh environment. I would join others live and comment to the people that I would sing their names if they followed me. I did not see it as a big thing until the day I actually went live for the first time. Creativity and ways to innovate are always on my mind. The ringtone idea happened sporadically. What turned into what I thought was a song ended up being something bigger, like becoming the voice on over 200 phones worldwide. Doing things like this brings me closer to my community and helps me find more musical gaps to fill. Singing ringtones excites me! Seeing the fire emojis and reading that it made them smile or that they won’t be answering their phone because it sounds too good brings joy to my heart.
BPM: What can your audience and our readers anticipate from you in the near future? Are there any exciting upcoming ventures, collaborations, or creative projects that you're currently working on or planning to share?
Sha Sha Jones: Absolutely, without revealing too much, I’m thrilled to share that I have an upcoming album in the works. There are also exciting collaborations and creative projects on the horizon that I can’t wait to unveil. Stay tuned because it will be a journey filled with new sounds and experiences.
As we bid adieu to the enchanting melodies and inspiring journey of Sha Sha Jones, the echoes of her story linger in the air. We're left in awe of the musical magic she shared, proving herself as a force to be reckoned with, imprinting her mark in the music industry with extraordinary talent. To our readers, your continued support means the world. Join us next week as we unveil another sensational artist in the spotlight, and embark on the next leg of our journey as we continue to spotlight exceptional talent.
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Photo Credit: Shaunice Jones
Follow Sha Sha Jones on social media platforms:
X (Formerly Twitter): @shashajones
YouTube: @shashajones
Instagram: @shashajones
TikTok: @shashasvoice
Soundcloud: @shashajones
Booking Information:
Semaj Lee
Phone: (405) 887-8041
Email:
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Get merch, personalized ringtones, demo recording, background composition, and much more:
Website: https://musicmindonline.com/
Watch “Playboy Q”
Watch “Lose You”
Watch “I’m Marvelous - Shacapella”
Spotlight Artist - Sha Sha Jones
Photo Credit: Shaunice Jones
