Making her United States debut this year, Toronto’s own Shawnee She King is anything but rookie. This veteran powerhouse has been rocking out audiences with her amazing vocals and dynamic songwriting. A star in her own right, she has been celebrated by music connoisseurs and critics alike, including Canadian Idol and Exclaim! Magazine. We got the chance to chat about She King’s diverse town; her much awaited 2013 tour, and most importantly, her absolutely inspired music.
What made you want to be a performer?
Mostly, it’s ingrained in who I am. I don’t know how much I even had a choice in the matter! It’s who I have always been since day one. Outside of my love for it, the beauty in what I do is the opportunity and power I have to inspire. I will never waste that opportunity.
Has being queer and two spirited inspired your performance style and songwriting? Has being Aboriginal?
Absolutely! I believe it’s even more crucial to be nothing less then who I am, in what I do and where I go. I believe in that for everyone, but when I write my music and perform for my fans I am promising to share who I am. That plays into my music, lyrics and performance.
Toronto is an awesome city! What’s your favorite thing to do there when you’re not serving singer songwriter realness?
Walking around Kensington Market on a hot summer day with a cold Starbuck’s hits every spot in my books.
I’m sure being an aware musician can be a tall order. What motivated you to use your music in the youth empowerment movement?
Growing up I was not the easiest kid to deal with. Actually some would say I was anything but! I always felt out of place and I think a lot of the times not just youth but people can feel this way. If I can use my experiences, voice and music to help someone realize a bigger picture then their own very moment then I am doing everything I ever wanted to.
Who’s new on your favorite playlist right now? Who’s always been on your favorite playlists?
I grew up listening to Melissa Etheridge but any female artist willing to go against the grain is my type. I’m also unusually eclectic; anything from Brandi Carlile, Jessie J, Patti Smith, and P!nk.
Outside of playing to an audience that adores you, what are you most looking forward to on your stop in Washington, D.C.?
I have to say, this is all new to me I have never been to D.C. and I have never performed in the United States. So I am mostly looking forward to bringing my music to D.C. And hopefully you guys will share the good in’s, out’s and eats of D.C.!
Shawnee She King performs at National Museum of the American Indian on July 20, 2013 in Washington, D.C. For more information visit www.shekingmusic.com.
