Q: The lyrics on “Snakes and Ladders” brought out beautiful depths to the song. Can you walk us through your creative process?
SHANNON: So basically, the meaning behind Snakes and Ladders, is that I was feeling fed up with the way that the world can be full of people who cheat and lie, or manipulate others for their own gain. I’m sure I’m not the only one who has ever felt like this or been stabbed in the back by someone they trusted. So because of this, for me, the creative process was really just about writing down my feelings and emotions. The metaphorical meaning of snakes and ladders came to me pretty early on, as I usually like to think of the title of my song and the story behind it before I start coming up with phrases and words to form the lyrics.
Q: I am always curious about the artist’s upcoming. Was there a specific person or event that inspired you to be a part of the music industry?
SHANNON: I always loved music and singing from a really early age and I’ll always remember singing along to CDs of all various genres with my mum in the car! I think that I realised that I wanted to become a singer and be a part of that musical world when I sang on stage for the first time. I was ten years old and at a holiday park where they were holding a talent competition. I was absolutely terrified to go up on stage and sing to a whole room full of people, and I don’t think I’d ever even used a proper microphone before either! But once I was up there singing and getting a feel for the music, I didn’t want to leave. There was just something almost magical about it, and of course, I was racing with adrenaline too! After that point, I knew that music was what I wanted to do. It was and is my passion.
Q: Even the greatest writers can battle with creative blocks at times, how do you deal when there’s a lack of inspiration?
SHANNON: I definitely have those moments where I really want to write a song but I’m completely lacking ideas and inspiration! Everyone gets them for sure. When it comes to me, I might record a cover of another song or artist I love that inspires me. Sometimes hearing my favourite artist or band sing can give me the creative spark I need! Or alternatively, I’ll do something else I enjoy, like reading a book or going out for a walk, or meeting up with friends, and then I’ll try again with the creative side of things later. I think it’s important to take breaks and take your time when writing a song or a piece of music because you want to be able to connect with what you’re creating and I don’t think you can do that if you’re stressed or not feeling it.
Q: What has been one of the most significant moments of your musical journey so far? What have you learned from it?
SHANNON: Releasing my first-ever song has probably been my biggest highlight so far. I’ve been wanting to put my own music out into the world for so long and I’m so grateful that I’ve finally been given that opportunity! It’s definitely taught me not to give up on what I believe in. ‘Snakes and Ladders’ is only the beginning for me, and I have plenty more song ideas in the pipeline!! Another significant moment for me would be performing at Lake Meadows fireworks display last year to the biggest crowd I’ve ever sung in front of; 15000 people! Having such a huge crowd interact with me whilst I was on stage? It was incredible!
Q: Do you play any other instruments? What’s an instrument that you would like to learn?
SHANNON: I’m afraid the only instrument I have and know how to use, is my voice! I know a few chords on the piano and can play some songs at a very basic level, but I definitely wouldn’t call myself a pianist! I would really love to have a go at learning either the guitar or the piano– or even both!
Q: What is coming up next for you?
SHANNON: Well, I’m always working on new songs and writing lyrics behind the scenes. During the first lockdown, I wrote around a full album’s worth of songs, so it’s just about tweaking those and getting in the studio to actually turn them into proper tunes! But, I suppose the short answer is that new music is definitely coming very soon!
Interviewed by Alina Tran
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