We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Shacklin Hilliard. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Shacklin below.

Shacklin, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today When did you first know you wanted to pursue a creative/artistic path professionally?

It was at the age of 13 was the first time I actually sung on stage in front of people ; along side a D.J. This came naturally for me. After a few talent shows & competitions in my city (That I won) I was blessed with the opportunity starting at the young age of 15 years old to open up for Reggae musics Legendary “Gregory Issacs”.He came with artists known as “Born Jamericans” & “Mad Lion.” It was from that moment I knew music, performing and recording was something that was meant for me to do.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your background and context?

I come from a very cultural family history. My mother was born in Africa in the country of Gambia. My father was born in Jamaica, raised in St. Mary and Kingston. From a young age my father has always played NOTHING but reggae music. I believe this is my foundation. Reggae music has always been a part of me because of my father and his Love for it. I also love my culture and love & know who I am & where I come from. From the age of 3 years old my father would set up his stereo with Bob Marley records & records from the Rock steady era & he would then attach his microphone. He would then hand it to me and have me sing with him. Ever since, I fell in love with Reggae Music. Starting from the age of 15 years old , I have opened up for Reggae Artists as well as famous artists from different genres of music; including some comedians. Artists & Performers such as : Romain Virgo, SHA-Rock of the FUNKY 4 PLUS 1, Bahamadia, Angie Stone, Serani, Richie Spice, Mega Banton , Mad Lion, Born Jamericans, Comedians Tommy Davidson, Lavel Crawford, John Witherspoon, Pretty Ricky, Legendary Gregory Issacs, sung on stage with BERES Hammond, MAVADO, Dougie Fresh, Eric Benet, Carl Richardson,Tarrus Riley, Black Street, ACE HOOD, Agent Sasco, I-Octane, TRINA, Noah Powa; IISASHA, Singer J, Yanique Curvy Diva ,Sista Nancy , Mr. Easy, Natalie Rise, Da’ville, Baby Cham, and still going.

We’d love to hear a story of resilience from your journey.

I started at a young age performing & recording. There have definitely been times where I felt that I should stop because you know now social media plays a major part in everything & everyone’s lives now. Down to products, businesses, & promoting brands. I am not really a social media person so I did not use that as a source to gain any audience. Music changes just like everything, & everything changes according to the times. As we all know People change and so will music. Music we hear on the radio will change in each era. For a time, I didn’t feel that my music touched people anymore because I didn’t conform to the changes. I always remained true to my artistry & true to myself. However, I then realized what would I be with out music? Music is how we express ourselves & our feelings. For me, music flows through my veins and I need to release it. So, I started traveling outside of my city & stepped out and believed in myself. I have been blessed ever since I made that decision. I performed at the Austin Urban Music Festival (Opened for Dougie Fresh, Black street, & Carl Thompson) , Austin Reggae Fest (Opened for Tarrus Riley) & etc . I now know that music is my purpose and it’s for me to share with others wether it be one person or one million. This is what I am born to do. I believe that we all have a purpose that’s not meant for ourselves. Our purpose is meant for the betterment of others.

What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?

My mission or my goal is to touch as many people as I can. I’m hoping that my music uplifts and that it makes people feel better on a daily basis. I hope that it pushes people to strive and be original. To be who they are and not conform or follow others just because they are doing it. If I happen to gain even more exposure by pursuing my purposes; so be it. If not, that’s ok too because this music thing will always be with me and it’s apart of me. Music is in everything we just have to know how to tap into it & find a way to express it. Music makes everyone feel good & I love when my music is a healing factor to others.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ladyshacklin/
• Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/LadyShacklin
• Youtube: https://youtube.com/channel/UC0mTlpfT7wEvh6mpJ3hH6Fg

Image Credits
Photo Credits to : Victor Price, & Make up By Tabitha (Tabitha Shields) .