FEATURE
Alana Sheldon-Miller Interview with Muzique Magazine
When did you discover your love for your craft and what made you realize you wanted to pursue a career in it?
I discovered my love for music at a very young age. Music has always been a significant part of my life, and I pursued it passionately throughout my early years. However, bad contracts, greedy management, and an exploitative record label left me totally disillusioned with the music industry. I stepped away from music 35 years ago. The desire to create and share music never truly left me.
A few years ago, I found myself reflecting on the journey I had taken and realized how much I missed the joy and fulfillment that music brought me. What really made me decide to restart my music career was a combination of factors.
Firstly, I reached a point in my life where I felt more secure and settled, giving me the freedom to explore my passions again. Secondly, the advancements in technology and the rise of social media have made it easier for independent artists to share their work and connect with audiences worldwide. But most importantly, I realized that I still had a lot to say through my music. Life experiences, both the highs and the lows, have given me a deeper well of inspiration and a more mature perspective.
I wanted to express these stories and emotions through my songs, hoping they would resonate with others and perhaps even inspire those who feel it’s too late to follow their dreams. Restarting my music career after 35 years has been both challenging and incredibly rewarding. It feels like coming home, and I am more motivated than ever to create and share my music with the world.
On your current project, how did you come up with the concept?
I’m thrilled to talk about my new song release “Come Dance with Me”, which is particularly special because of its unique Afro-Latin-Jazz fusion. The idea for this song came from a desire to celebrate and honor my cultural heritage. I’ve always been deeply connected to both my African, Caribbean and Latin roots, and I wanted to create a piece that seamlessly blended these influences.
Working with multi-platinum award-winning songwriter & producer Martin Sutton Martin Sutton, has been a pivotal part of this journey. He is the founder of The Songwriting Academy which has inspired so many aspiring musicians to pursue their dreams. Martin’s expertise and creative insights were instrumental in bringing my vision to life. In our writing sessions, we delved into the stories and emotions I wanted to convey through the song. Martin encouraged me to draw from my personal experiences and cultural background.
Alana Sheldon-Miller Interview with Muzique Magazine
This collaboration allowed us to craft a song that not only showcases the infectious beats and melodies of Afro-Latin music but also tells a story that is authentically mine. The process was both challenging and incredibly rewarding. We experimented with various rhythms, instrumentation, and lyrical themes to ensure that the song genuinely reflected the fusion of my Afro-Latin roots. The result is a track that feels like a celebration of my identity and a bridge between cultures through music.
For my first song out of the gate after 35 years I am immensely proud and grateful for the opportunity to work with Martin. I believe together we captured the essence of Afro-Latin-Jazz music and, more importantly, I get to share a piece of my heart and heritage with the world.
What are your plans for the near future?
One of my primary goals is to delve deeper into the fusion of Afro-Latin-Jazz rhythms and contemporary sounds and to see where it takes me. My recent experiences have shown me how powerful and evocative this combination can be, and I want to push those boundaries even further.
Lastly, I plan to continue honing my craft by learning and experimenting. The songwriting process is ever-evolving, and I’m committed to growing as an artist. I’m eager to keep expanding my musical horizons.
Is there anyone you’d like to thank, any shout-outs?
First and foremost, I want to express my deepest gratitude to Martin Sutton, Cat Aimi, and the incredible mentors at The Songwriting Academy. Their creation of the Ultimate Artist Release Program has been a game-changer for me.
The program provided invaluable insights, resources, and support to help me advance on my musical journey. Martin’s expertise and guidance, along with the dedication of his team, have been instrumental in helping me navigate the complexities of the music industry.
I also want to thank my husband, family, and friends for their unwavering support and encouragement. Their belief in me and my music has been a constant source of inspiration and strength
How can fans find you?
Spotify | Apple Music | Facebook | Instagram | Website
