Hollywood Dame Interview

Hollywood Dame has an EXCLUSIVE interview with Shane. He talks about writing music, who he'd like to work with, getting recognized by fans & more!

When did you first realize you had an interest in music and what sparked that interest?
I’ve always loved music and I grew up singing in church. I started doing worship for a special needs Sunday school class when I was about 12.

How did you break into the music industry?
I was contacted through a friend to meet with Adam Anders. Adam had listened to my original songs and covers on my music MySpace and he offered me a music development deal.

How would you describe the sound of your music, and what makes you feel like your album is different from the other artists in your genre?
I think it has mostly an acoustic-pop vibe-kind of Jason Mraz meets Justin Timberlake. As far as distinction goes, there are so many talented artists and each one is unique because we all have different personalities that we put into our music and performances. Besides that fact, I am also a professional dancer and I think that adds to my performance capability.

What are some of your plans for promoting your music – do you plan on doing some touring?
Right now I’m just getting my music out there and hope that people respond well. I would absolutely love to tour as soon as possible.

Musically speaking, what are some of your short term and long term goals you have lined out for yourself? What are your hopes for the upcoming year?
This year for sure I would like to complete my full length album and then at least be in consideration for opening for someone amazing on tour! A long-term goal for music would be to have a Platinum Record on my wall, of course! haha And then just to keep making music that touches people and makes people feel things…for the rest of my life.

Lyrically speaking, where do your song inspirations come from? Is it easy for you to sit down and write lyrics, or is it a bit of a challenge sometimes?
I write music with my guitar in hand and usually when I feel inspired, it flows pretty quickly. I might have to go back and refine it and work it a bit but it is pretty much all there at the beginning. I write about things I feel and things I have experienced. Occasionally there are particular people attached to a song, but I won’t share that part. lol

Who are some of your musical interests and influences?
I grew up listening to Steven Curtis Chapman. His was the first concert I ever went to. Justin Timberlake really influenced me early on…. very inspiring.

Who are some artists you’d like to work with?
Oh my gosh so many- but a few off the top of my head are Jason Mraz, Jon Foreman, Phil Collins….oh and Miley Cyrus!

What is the experience like to be out somewhere and be recognized by a fan?
Honestly, it’s so humbling and such a blessing.

Besides music, what are some of your other interests and hobbies?
Well, acting is another thing that is close to my heart. Ideally, I would love to incorporate my music in a theatrical feature film in some way. There is a Warner Brothers film coming out this summer called “Flipped”, where I was able to do just a bit of music as well as acting. It was so fun and I’d like to do more of that for sure. Other than the entertainment industry, most people don’t know that I attained my black belt in Kempo Karate when I was 13 years old. Even though I don’t continue in that training, the martial arts will always interest me. I spend a lot of time with my family. We like to take walks and go on bike rides and just hang out.