Shelby J, an esteemed vocalist and songwriter renowned for her collaboration with Prince and The New Power Generation, joins us for a captivating discourse on her musical journey and recent endeavors. Our conversation unveils the profound influence of her upbringing in a musical family from North Carolina, as well as her experiences performing alongside legendary artists such as D'Angelo and Mary J. Blige. Shelby elaborates on her latest single, "North Carolina," which she co-wrote with Prince and features the soulful voice of Anthony Hamilton, highlighting the rich production that encapsulates her Southern roots. Throughout our dialogue, she emphasizes the importance of preparedness and the authenticity of live music, drawing from her extensive performance history. As we delve deeper into her artistic vision, Shelby shares insights into the forthcoming album that promises to resonate with audiences and inspire a renewed sense of belonging and empowerment.

Originally recorded in 2013.

Takeaways:

• Shelby J. shares the profound impact of her upbringing in a musical family, emphasizing the importance of community support and familial bonds in her artistic journey.
• During her time with Prince and the MPG, Shelby J. highlights the significance of preparation and readiness in delivering exceptional live performances without prior notice.
• The collaboration between Shelby J. and Anthony Hamilton on her single 'North Carolina' exemplifies the deep connections and shared history among artists in the music industry.
• Shelby discusses the challenges and rewards of being an independent artist, advocating for mutual support among musicians to foster a thriving creative community.
• In the episode, Shelby emphasizes the transformative nature of music, noting its ability to touch lives and create lasting connections across diverse audiences.
• The conversation touches upon Shelby's philosophy that success is a shared journey, encouraging others to uplift and support their peers in the music industry.