By Justine Duclaux
The 18-year-old Indian artist, Shannon K, grew up in the music business where her parents are also renowned singers. Singer, songwriter, influencer and actor, she has around 5 million followers across all socials and has worked with a number of high-profile songwriters and producers. Recently, Shannon recently released her new single “I Do”, which talks about the separation from an ex, but how it is also important to remember the good memories you had with them.”This single perfectly encapsulates her raw, authentic talent. In this interview, Shannon.K shows us who she really is, her passions, her commitments, her influences and futures projects.
What influenced you to become a singer?
I grew up being surrounded by music and I’ve always just had a passion for it. My dad has been a big influence on me since I grew up listening to his songs. The very first song I remember my mom played for me when I was a toddler was ”My Heart Will Go On” by Celine Dion. Celine has been a big influence for me, as well as, Mariah Carey!
What can you tell us about your new single “I Do”? What inspired you?
All my previous songs have been about the different stages of love, but this was something that I hadn’t written about before. The concept of remembering someone you loved after you’ve separated and wanting the best for them is beautiful. You remember them but you also remember how difficult it was for both of you to understand each other; that you didn’t know what you were doing wrong at the time so you blamed them. You know now that you weren’t the victim, so you just want them to be happy with whoever they’re with now. It reflects on the saying that if you love someone you should let them go.
Tells us your favorite memories from shooting the music video for “I Do”?
My favorite memory is when I saw the secret garden setup for the first time. I’ve always been fascinated by untouched secret gardens that have this whole paradise vibe to them. So to be physically present in a location like that was a great thing for me; it was just like a dream!
As an influencer, you are very present on social media. How do you use your platform to influence others?
I’ve been an advocate for animal rights and anti-bullying for quite some time now. I’ve always used my social media for raising awareness about those things. They’re very important issues to me and it makes me happy when someone tells me I’ve helped them in some way. That helps me, and keeps me calm and sane.
Fashion and beauty are also some of your passions. Can you describe the perfect look for you?
I love fit and flare, and bodycon dresses. I prefer mini dresses over a midi. Also, I love leather jackets, boots, and mini-skirts. I hate carrying big handbags so I’ll carry a small one with me for the essentials. Grace and comfort are my priorities. To be honest, one should be confident and comfortable in their clothes.
Please name a singer that has inspired you in your own performances.
I love Ariana Grande and her performances. She’s been such an influence for my on stage performances. She has this chill vibe, where even if she isn’t doing a routine, she’s just connecting with the audience and making sure there’s a constant interaction. That’s something I aim to do.
For 2020, what is your next collaboration?
I’ve collaborated with Jasper Leak on a single. I can’t wait for it to be out later this year. I’ve been working on a song called “Knock Knock,” and plan to release that music video this summer. Quite excited for that!
Since your debut, what is the best advice you’ve ever been given?
I remember meeting Johnny Depp for the first time. I told him that I was a singer-songwriter and an actor, and he told me something that I would never forget. He said “Always write from your heart. Not from here,” and he pointed to his 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. I would watch Charlie and the Chocolate Factory or Pirates of the Caribbean almost every weekend back in London.
Your parents also work in music, what do they think of your career? What advice have they given you that has stuck with you all this time?
They’ve always supported me in whatever I’ve wanted to become. The best advice they’ve given to me is that “you will do what you’re meant to do, in one way or another. Never get disheartened. Remember: when you fail, you learn!!“
You have many fans; do you plan on going on tour?
I was planning to go to India for a tour this year, but everything was held back due to COVID-19. Hopefully all will go back to normal and we’ll have a vaccine for it soon. I pray for anyone infected with the virus.
If we follow you for 24 hours, what is your typical day like?
Usually, I wake up and go for a walk with my puppy, but these days I’ve been using the treadmill as a substitute. I work out at home due to the current situation with the virus, and then I will go to the recording studio to work on my music or go into my music room/den at home and just vibe with my sister. I like to watch movies as well, eat some comfort food, and then finish the day with my skin care routine. Sometimes I’ll have events to go to, so I’ll spend the day resting so I can have a calm and cheerful attitude for when I get there. On my days off, I like to go to Disneyland or someplace fun with my sister and friends.
What is your favorite place in India?
My favorite place would be Jaipur because there’s a lot of heritage there and a lot of representation of the Indian culture. My grandma and aunt live there, so I get to visit every other year. I also filmed for a music video in a 14thCentury Fort and a 15th Century Palace, so you’ll get to see the beauty of Jaipur in it!
What are your next projects?
I have three songs for the new Zee5 television show called Casino all lined up for release. I’m excited for that! I also have a new music video that I’ve been working on for my new single, and I can’t wait to share it with the world. My team and I worked really hard on it.
By Justine Duclaux
TEAM CREDITS
Photography MK MCGEHEE & ALEXANDER FENYVES @mk.mcg @fenivision @linse.studios
Creative Direction ALEKSANDAR TOMOVIC @alekandsteph
Styling LILIT SHAHINYAN @lilitshahinyann
Hair CRYSTAL TRAN for Exclusive Artists using Oribe Haircare @beautybycrystal
Makeup AARON PAUL for Exclusive Artists using Becca Cosmetics @aaronpaulbeauty
Production @BELLOMediaGroup x @MaisonPriveepr_la x @bonnetalex18