D. Shawn & Soul

Neo-Soul Inspired

When did you guys first get into music?

I’ve been singing since I was 4 years old, and Soul has been playing instruments at a young age as well. We both went to school for music; we met each other at North Carolina Central University and never looked back.

Who or What influenced you to pursue a career in music?

It wasn’t one specific thing that inspired us; From how it makes us feel, to the impact we have on others by creating/performing. We want to create our own destiny doing what we love, as well as being an example to others that anything’s possible if you believe and don’t stop working.

Describe your style of music.

Our style is more Neo-Soul, Mixed with a little Jazz, R&B and HipHop. We get inspired by a lot of other artists and musicians so we grab inspiration from everywhere.

How has your music evolved since you joined forces as D. Shawn & Soul?

Having an artist/producer combo with the ability to create any vibe of music we want has evolved us into better musicians, as well as men. We have always been able to put our ideas together and make magical things from it.

If you were forced to choose only one, which emotion, more than any other, drives you to stay in this tough industry? Is it joy, anger, desire, passion or pride and why?

It has to be passion. We wholeheartedly believe in who we are and what we do for the culture. When you create for others outside of yourself, your impact is bigger the you ever imagined.

Which ingredient do you think makes you special and unique as performing artists in an industry overflowing with new faces and ideas?

How well rounded and experienced we are; we both have individually and collectively collaborated with numerous artists in the industry in multiple genres, as well as taking time to learn snd grow each and every day. There isn’t a vibe we can’t create.

What has been your biggest challenge as a performing artists? Have you been able to overcome that challenge? If so, how?

We live in a generation where imitation is glorified at an all time high; it’s hard sometimes to get people to see outside of what they hear every day on radio or nowadays on television as well. I think we overcome this by continuing to evolve, adding different things to who we are as musicians. In time it will pay off.

A common phrase in the industry is, “you must suffer for your art.” Do you agree with this statement? If so, how have you suffered for your art?

Yes and no. I believe in the analogy of putting in your 10,000 hours in order to become great at anything so sometimes that comes with sacrifice, pain, loss and hurt. But when you truly love what you do, and continue to fall in love more and more each day, you are never suffering.

How do you feel the internet has impacted the music business?

It’s given this generation the power of influence; more and more artists now have more control over their careers more then ever.

If you could change anything about the music industry, what would it be?

If there was one thing I would change about the music industry it would be the people at the top. They really eat off of artists and give them a small percentage. Also, they only look to invest into one side of the music industry; there are numerous musicians around the world that deserve a chance to be heard, they just don’t sound like everyone else. We plan to be the change in the music industry we are talking about.

I’m sure you have shared the stage with many talented artists/celebrities. Please share 1 or 2 of your favorite stories with us.

One of my favorite memories is when Ari Lennox came out to our show in Charlotte NC to support us and ended up performing on stage with us. It was a beautiful moment

What are the 5 albums that have helped make you the individuals you are today?

Jay Z – The Blueprint, J Dolla- Motor City, Aijuswannasing – Musiq Soulchild, Brown Sugar and Black Messiah – D’angelo

What is the best advice you have received?

Work every day to be the best version of yourself you can be each and every day.

What’s next for you? New Music?

We have plenty of collaborations coming out, as well as a new album we’ve been working on.

How can fans-to-be gain access to your music and follow your career?

You can follow us on all Social media platforms at @ Dshawnandsoul and find us on all streaming platforms at D. Shawn & Soul.