Shailaun is a model, actress, singer-songwriter and producer based in Dallas, Texas. Raised in Arlington, she studied and fell in love with music at an early age. Learning different instruments (viola, alto saxophone, voice and percussion) she developed a music versatility that eventually led her into writing, perform and produce music.
Tell us a bit about yourself and why you do what you do.
My name is Shailaun. I tell stories using every part of my existence as a model, actress, singer, writer, producer and creator. I create experiences for people to feel less alone, more connected with themselves and others and full of encouragement. I have graced many stages, television screens and magazines for brands such as Michael Buble, Arsenio Hall, AT&T, Essence, Vibe, Mario, Mary Kay, Fossil, Saks 5th Avenue, India. Arie and countless more! In 2022, I released my debut album Spread Love to the world landing on iTunes Netherlands charts at #5 for my song Spread Love and #4 for my song Peace. This February, I released Glowing, an empowerment song about realizing your impact and stepping into your power. Glowing is the first single release from my next project “Me Time.” I am a musical storyteller lifting myself and others.
What makes your business different from any others doing a similar thing?
In the music industry, there seems to be a set few styles of music that a lot of people get rolled into, but my music flows freely in and out of genres. For example, on my debut album, you will find jazz, folk, gospel, country, RnB, and house music inspirations throughout, with my voice being the constant stream. The topics I write about tend to be very much in line with my optimistic thinking as well; many experiences a warm and positive impact after listening. Some of my songs challenge you to grow, some remind you to celebrate where you are right now. My music usually serves as a constant reminder to live your best life in a holistic way.
If you had a magic wand, what would you change in the world?
This is a great question. If I could change the world with a magic wand, I would grant the world self-awareness, determination and strength to complete its karmic judgment in unity and ascend peacefully into pure existence with no suffering.
How long do you stick with an idea before giving up?
I have a really great sense of endurance when it comes to my ideas. If my idea doesn’t provide spiritual nourishment, I can let it go. If an idea provides me with a means to provide enlightenment for myself or others, I am more likely to tighten my grip and manifest it.
How did you come up with the name of your company?
I love this question because my name is very unique and special to me and tells a story about my experience as a teenager coming into adulthood. When I was 17, I attended modeling school, and near graduation, the students were encouraged to come up with a “celebrity” name for themselves. I wanted to honor the name I was born with, Shalaundra, but at the same time I was thinking about whether or not I would be discriminated against if someone were to read my name on paper, so I removed the “draw.” From there, I thought about what letters or words I could add to my name to provide a sense of autonomy rather than surrendering as the property of someone else.
So, I added an “I” to represent myself and became Shailaun. I later discovered “Shai” meant gift and a “laun” was a sifter for purifying clay. I then gave meaning to my name and mission; “God has made the gift pure.”
Do you sing in the shower? What songs?
Absolutely! The shower is such a vulnerable, yet safe place to be and it makes a perfect rehearsal space for professionals, hobbyists and music lovers all the same, ha-ha! The acoustics are wonderful! I sing a combination of originals and uplifting or romantic cover songs. After sunrise, I turn on my Positive RnB playlist on Spotify and sing songs like
“Glowing” by Shailaun, “and so it’s so.” by Iman Europe, “Eternal Light” by Free
Nationals, and “Morning Asana” by Londrelle. My Positive RnB playlist is a perfect pick me up and is on Apple Music as well, definitely a must listen for reprogramming your mind to a more positive state.
You are a new addition to a crayon box. What color would you be and why?
I am seafoam; a cool, calm and relaxing color that reminds me of warm, tropical ocean water. It’s soothing and brings a sense of peace. I could color over anything and evoke a sense of hope, inspiration and adventure with this color.
What would you bring along to an idyllic picnic?
Answering this question is so dreamy and inspiring. I would bring a large picnic blanket and pillows, two foldable lawn chairs (one for me and hubby), a cooler packed with fruit, vegan cheeses and crackers, a bottle of red wine, water, a good book, some binoculars,
my cell phone and portable speaker, a journal and pen and probably a painting kit. In really hot places, I’d probably bring some sunscreen or an umbrella as well. I could literally do this every day. I am very creative and really enjoy reading, writing, painting, and listening to music in nature by myself or with my best friend.
If you could ask your future self one question, what would it be?
If I could, I would ask my future self “What can I do now to make you proud?”
If you were talking to a younger version of you, what advice would you give yourself?
If I was talking to a younger version of myself, I would tell her that this life is like a game; a series of challenges to overcome while you move in the direction of your heart doing things that you truly enjoy and creating beautiful memories to look back on.
Some challenges will be easier and some will be difficult, but you are destined to win as long as you do not give up. I would tell her not to focus on the outside noise or the applause, just focus on doing whatever it is you love doing with all your heart. That includes resting, eating your favorite healthy foods, traveling, your hobbies, etc.
Don’t do or say things that hurt you or others, and if you do on accident, always apologize and correct yourself. When you feel like giving up, talk to people who love you and lift you up, read self help books and listen to uplifting music. When times get tough, do the things you don’t want to do that you know will make you better; the odds are forever in your forever; one day you will surely rise. (My little brother Andrew inspired that last sentence.)
Thank you all for your time. Love, Shai.
Check out Shailaun’s new single GLOWING!
Keep up with Shailaun on Instagram, YouTube, Spotify, Apple Music or Shailaun.com!
