MS SHAHIDAH...UP NEXT!

Ms Shahidah! The super sexy, talented and well focused and driven young woman that is definitely...well...up next! At an early age, it was evident this sister was going to make major moves in her life. Doing everything that ensures her acceleration, she made her center of attraction to singing, acting, modeling and a number of other things real by going after the one thing people will never believe can happen...success. Making a name for herself in other cities, and surrounding herself by the best of the best to learn and perfect her craft put her in the potions as a true entertainment professional. Then to top it off, a young black woman pushing without the worry of a critic, and she put her self on the type of platform that says to you, I'm doing my thing, what you doing?

DAPM:Hey babygirl, Now I know you dabble in a lot, but when you started what was your main focus?

Shahidah:As a child, I started out wanting to be an actress. Then I went on to join the band. I've always been a lover of music, so eventually; my passion for music took over.

DAPM: You are not just chasing it, you are doing it! I love the fact that you have studied and gotten educated to your crafts, who helped aide to that?

Shahidah:It's very hard starting out; when you realize what you're up against when it comes to learning the "business" side of music, it almost makes you want to quit. I went out and bought a book called "The Musician's Business and Legal Guide." I also had a couple of friends in the Music Industry that educated me on quite a few things. However; nothing beats the type of education that you gain from "trial and error." You can read a book all day everyday, but it doesn't compare to the actual experience of being "hands-on."

DAPM: Greatly worded. You act, sing,model etc... smart, broadening your brand, why is this so important as an artist?

Shahidah:It is important to be versatile. You never want to limit yourself to one thing. If you have the talent/ability to do all three, why not? You never know which one will be the first to take you to the next level. However; I don't believe in over-exerting yourself. Choose a main focus and work towards perfecting it. Then, move on to something else.

DAPM: Thats a good thing to ponder on, what are some of the things you have done with your other avenues of exposure you're entertaining?

Shahidah:I have been in several films; both independent and major. These films include: "Detroit Hoopz," "Count Time," "The Five Year Engagement," "Sparkle" and "Into The Storm" aka (Black Sky) set to be released in August of 2014. When it comes to modeling; I have been in a couple fashion shows and several music videos: "Get Ya Paper"- Fat Killahz, "Body Rock" -Tiffany Queen," and "I Done it All" -V12 Mobb & Young Buck." I stepped away from modeling for quite some time, but I am ready to get back into it; granted, the right opportunities present themselves.

DAPM:I think I am in love with you! Lol Who was your inspiration that drove you to the point where you knew this is more than possible?

Shahidah: I'm really into watching interviews; interviews from those whom are successful, whether it be in the music business or some other venture. Their stories help inspire me. It feels good to know that most successful people have endured the same obstacles and challenges as I. Nonetheless; they managed to persevere.

DAPM:Yes I can understand that, the greatest of the great had to also start from something. Now that album that was dropped, hot sh*t, first off congratulations, how long did it take to complete?

Shahidah:Thank you! It took me three years to complete the album. I was studying at Wayne State University at the time and it was very difficult to juggle the two. I had to take some time away from school to focus on finishing the project. Most importantly; as stated before, I simply had to learn the "business." I don't like stepping into anything blind-sighted. It took a long time to connect with the right people that were well educated and had my best interest at heart. I had to grow as an artist and I'm still growing.

DAPM:Love you! Who came through to bless the album (features)?

Shahidah: Gucci Rie, Kitty Kash, John G and Coda are the artists that are featured on my project titled "I'm Up Next". HOT artists might I add! Make sure ya'll check out their projects #Fire. I also have to give a shout out to the producers on the album; Melodic, Kenny Hickson, Smurf, Marco Blyze and Snares Bleu for providing me with that HEAT!

DAPM: Mad love to them! What inspires your music?

Shahidah:Life Experiences...both good and bad

DAPM: Truth, As a true artist, that person empties their character in their work so that people can understand them, those people seem closer to the artist thus producing fans. Do you agree that majority of musicians depict a false character in order to entertain fans?

Shahidah:I agree that this is the case with SOME artists...but, not all

DAPM:If you do agree that that is majority of entertainment then do you side with those that portray a different character from their own in order to “entertain fans” giving them a completely false person idolize.

Shahidah:I believe that your best work comes from being true to yourself. I don't see anything wrong with throwing a "fun" song out there every once and while. However; I don't agree with totally falsifying yourself and your image in order to gain fans. People can see right through that..you'll end up losing in the long run.

DAPM:SPEAK THAT REAL SH*T! Well wrapping this up are there any Contacts or anything you feel important to announce?

Shahidah:Be sure to check out my debut album "I'm Up Next," it is available for preview/download on Itunes, CdBaby, Amazon, Spotify and more. Also, feel free to join my mailing list on Noisetrade (http://noisetrade.com/shahidah/im-up-next) or Bandcamp (http://shahidah.bandcamp.com/album/im-up-next) in exchange for a FREE download of the album!! Last, but not least...be sure to check out the official video to my song "So Hood!"

Booking Infomation: Coop (313) 629-8474 or Shahidahbooking@gmail.com

Website: www.shahidahonline.com

Twitter/Instagram: @Shahidah_H

Facebook: Shahidah_Singer/Model

DAPM: Man this was definitely a pleasure, I got mad love for you and major respect, keep doing ya thang ma! ...And thats CHUUURRRCCCHHH!