Music takes on a whole new meaning when it’s coming from the heart. What comes from the heart is sure to reach the heart. For Natasha Shantel, music has always been a passion and true form of expression.

As the singer and songwriter of all of her released music, Natasha Shantel aims to leave a lingering message with each song. Her debut single, “I Do”, reminds us to cherish and celebrate the love around us. With a voice that is both powerful and soothing, her music has the ability to inspire and heal.

Her single, ‘Seven x Eight’ has been able to strike a chord with many, as it deals with the theme of resilience in the face of adversity. No matter what life throws her way, she is committed to digging deep within to create melodies that will touch the hearts of her listeners. With vulnerable and transparent lyrics, this song is not simply a testament of personal strength. It releases hope and encouragement that its listeners too can rise above any circumstance.

This “Songbird” started her career to inspire others and since then, seems to be unstoppable! Her singles bring a unique perspective to music and often explore different concepts and emotions that make life deposits while they entertain. Her latest single, “I Miss You” vividly touches on the reality of lost loved ones and grief. Natasha Shantel is consistently giving real music for real life experiences.

With a voice that can calm the soul and lyrics that can touch the heart, Natasha Shantel is definitely an artist to watch out for! We wanted to explore more about her journey, podcast, her coaching business and the whereabouts of her upcoming book, ‘Trailblazing Aint Easy.’ Therefore, we recently caught up with her and here's a glimpse of the interview.

1) Before we talk about your latest release, let's go back to the beginning. How did you get into music?

Music is literally in my DNA. For as long as I can remember, music has moved me. At a young age, my mother can recall me singing to all of the songs playing on the radio. My grandmother also exposed me to piano lessons at the age of four years old. I also began singing in church at an early age.

2) What was it about music that spoke to you and made you want to pursue it as a career?

The interesting thing is that while I have always loved music, initially, I had no intention of pursuing music professionally. Initially I had my heart set on fashion design. At a time when I began searching for the deeper meaning and purpose of my life, I was redirected to music. I realized later that music made sense. It comes as natural as breathing. I have many gifts and talents, but music is a first love.

3) You're known for your beautiful and powerful voice. How did you develop your vocal chops?

My first form of training came through studying the artists that influence me. I would listen to their music and learn different techniques and vocal dynamics. I’m very grateful that I’ve always had an ear for music. Things like finding notes and harmonies come easy for me. I’ve never had formal training; but I look to change that very soon. I definitely look forward to mastering everything that I can about music and my voice. I’ve come to realize that I have a softer voice; but I love that. Loud doesn’t automatically mean powerful. I believe that also applies to life.

4) Who are some of your musical influences?

My musical palate is very diverse. I love music across genres therefore I’ve been influenced by many. I always want my first and most dominant influence to come from the heavens. Aside from that. voices such as: Anita Baker, Whitney Houston, Stevie Wonder, PJ Morton, Brandy and so many more have been great influences. If I could name one artist that most resonates, it would be Lauryn Hill. Her ability to mesh so many styles while feeding her audience’s spirit with valuable information that flows beyond entertainment is my aim as well. This was a really hard question for myself. I am inspired by many artists. There is no way that I could name them all.

5) Your debut single, "I Do", was such a beautiful reminder to cherish love. What was the inspiration behind that song?

I am a lover by design. At an early age, I connected with singing pure love songs. I could feel and recognize the beauty of God in those just as much as could in the Gospel music that I was exposed to. “I Do” was written from a pure place, three years before it was recorded and released. The inspiration for this one was simply my heart capturing my thoughts on true love that buds and lasts through adversity and the tests of life. I think I shocked a few with this one because I both sing and rhyme on this track.

6) You also recently released a new single, "I Miss You". Can you tell us a little about that song and what it means to you?

“I Miss You” is a very personal song. It was actually written and inspired by the loss of my grandmother, Pernella Houston. I was very close to my grandmother and I’ve been walking through a journey of healing from grief. Knowing that death is a part of life, I wrote in such a way that others who are walking through similar experiences would be able to hear it and connect as well. I also wanted to communicate that there is hope even in the midst of grief and traumatic experiences. Music is a great way to both express and heal.

7) You have an upcoming book, ‘Trailblazing Aint Easy’, coming out soon! Can you tell us a little about that?

“Trailblazing Aint Easy” gives insight into my unique personal journey of pursuing my purpose while encouraging others along the way. My hope is that the reader will be encouraged, entertained and inspired to do what they are called to do in this life to impact others.

8) What does your podcast focus on?

“The Honey and Locust Podcast” was created to be a safe place for: artists, influencers, innovators, trailblazers and thought leaders. Here we discuss topics relevant in our personal lives, culture and society all through the lens of love. We welcome anyone and everyone that resonates with our content.

9) You started a youth and arts coaching business. Tell us about Multi-Colored Coat Kids.

I am a passionate youth and arts advocate. I created Multi-Colored Coat Kids to be what I needed when I was younger. The Arts is a powerful way to develop life skills and build confidence. Wework with youth and young adults that have aspirations to pursue creative industries and those who simply simply love creative expression.

10) How can the public connect with you?

Natashashantelent.biz is the official website. The awesome thing is that everything is there! You can learn more about me as an artist, keep up with the music, connect with the podcast, and contact us to book coaching sessions for any child or youth in your life.