Today we’d like to introduce you to Sheleah Monea.
Sheleah, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
Born outside north of Boston, Massachusetts, I was told that I use to sing before I could really talk. I would listen to the songs on the radio and be able to sing them back, yet I wasn’t at the stage where I could speak to people. Music wasn’t just learned because I liked it, it was imprinted in my DNA. I come from a long line of singers and musicians going back to the late 19th century. The biggest family influence was my father, Jimmy Martin. He used to have a small studio set up in the house and was always working on his music. He would even let me have the microphone and I never looked back.
As young as six years old, there was documentation of creating my own songs. I would freestyle melodies, hooks and words would naturally follow. By age nine, I became very serious about writing songs. I entered my first talent competition with my school and won. Throughout the rest of my childhood into my teenage years, all I truly cared about was creating music.. my music. My story. I always felt like I had a lot to say, but the only way people could relate to me was through song.
I had the opportunity to sing at the Democratic convention in Boston. After high school, I attended Berklee College of Music. I met and befriended many talented musicians and artist who are doing extremely well in today’s music market. I loved being around so many talented people and growing as an artist. Eventually, I moved to Houston with my mother and sister. As I was becoming an adult, I was about to discover a new story and a new life that I was building in a new state very far away from home. It gave me time to reflect and find new stories to sing about. Within the last 10+ years, I won Songwriting competitions, had the chance to sing on BET’s Wild Out Wednesday & have written for other Music Artist. I’ve also have worked with great musicians, producers, rappers and singers on various projects in Houston.
The chapter I’m in at my life in this very moment is putting out my official E.P. “Gemini’s Prelude” due out before the end of the summer. I have so many stories to share with everyone, I can not wait to release a full project and to perform and connect with people. Listening to their stories are inspiring to me, my goal is to inspire someone through lyrics and melodies.
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
The road I have traveled in the past and have decided to continue traveling has not been an easy route, to say the least. I have been trying to connect with people using my voice through song since I was nine years old. I have had many plans over the years. Many different directions, different opportunities that just did not come to fruition.
One of the biggest struggles I have faced is self-doubt. Even til’ this day, I ask myself, “Am I worth it? Is my Talent and Drive really enough? Are my stories and Voice really worthy of a place in this world… in your speakers.” I have been asking that question for so many years, mostly my adult years. Whenever I deal with self-doubt, sometimes I have to think about what my younger self would say. Sheleah Monea as a child was confident on stage. She had no fear while writing songs. She knew who she was going to be and the kind of life I was going to live. I have to remind myself that I have that little girl inside of me. I am not the strongest dancer, but I have always loved dance. In elementary school, there was an exclusive Dance Team that many of my friends and “cool” kids were part of. I wanted to be a part of it so badly. I tried out in 4th grade and did not make it. I tried out in 5th grade and also did not make it. When I was in 6th grade, I was determined to make it. I asked my parents to bring me to school an hour early so that I could practice in the gym every morning. They allowed kids to practice the routine early weekday mornings until the actual auditions. I was determined. Even though I was not the strongest dancer, my hard work and determination to make it put me over the edge. I made it. I was part of the team. Every single time I think of giving up or I think I won’t be good enough, I remember that little girl. She keeps me going. The spirit in my soul won’t let me give up.
I am not exactly where I want to be in my career, but I do know I am much closer than I was a year ago. I would tell anyone, especially young ladies out there who have a dream and a vision of whatever it is they are passionate about, to remember this; Life never truly goes according to plan. But you must always stay true to yourself, your beliefs and know that with this simple equation of hard work and determination, you can make anything happen. If you can imagine it, you can make it happen. You have to forgive yourself and know that as long as you are blessed to have another day on this earth is another day to go after your dreams and accomplish any goal you have set.
Also, remember to be grateful, be willing to learn and know that there are plenty of stars in the sky. Showing love and admiration for someone else does not take away from what you have to offer the world.
Please tell us more about what you do, what you are currently focused on and most proud of.
I love to write not only songs, but I also use to write stories. I have a very active imagination. My imagination has helped me go after my dreams. I believe good dreams can come true. While I love connecting with people with my musical stories, I believe most people connect with my Voice and my spirit. I believe that is what sets me apart from my peers. We all have something special to offer, but the most consistent compliment I have received over the years is how much people love my voice. That makes me feel proud as a Singer and Songwriter that I can touch someone’s soul and pull out emotion just from singing a song that speaks to them.
There’s a wealth of academic research that suggests that a lack of mentors and networking opportunities for women has materially affected the number of women in leadership roles. Smart organizations and industry leaders are working to change this, but in the meantime, do you have any advice for finding a mentor and building a network?
If you have a goal, it is best to either seek out someone in your respected field and just ask questions. Every expert was once a beginner. There are so many opportunities to seek out help to become a better version of yourself with what you are trying to achieve in life. Social media is such a powerful tool that everyone should utilize for connecting with someone you admire or respect.
Contact Info:
- Email: sheleah.monea.music@gmail.com
- Instagram: instagram.com/sheleahmonea
- Facebook: facebook.com/sheleahmoneamusic
- Other: youtube.com/sheleahmonea
Image Credit:
Dream Photo and Video, Kandids by Kev, 9000_Frames, Jeremiah Campbell
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