We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Courtney Shilo a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Courtney , looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. How did you learn to do what you do? Knowing what you know now, what could you have done to speed up your learning process? What skills do you think were most essential? What obstacles stood in the way of learning more?
I learned to sing from listening and studying and trying to imitate the artists I would hear on the radio. I was able to further develop my singing skills once I joined choir. Singing in choir helped me to become a stronger vocalist and really trained my ear. I learned to write music by studying other songwriters like Prince Cannon and 12Til who helped me to develop my own musical style. When I moved to Houston, it was Erikah Nocturnal and Benji musiq who gave me a platform to sing live music with a band. Both have mentored me and helped me become much more confident on stage. As far as my art career, I started at the age of 28.I learned to draw and paint from watching youtube tutorials. I applied and was accepted into the MFA program and Houston Baptist University. Professors like Ryan Baptiste really helped me to develop my skills as a painter. Sometimes I wish I would have started my art career earlier, however, I also believe that everything happens for.a reason.
Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers
I started singing at the age of 4. The first time I held a microphone in my hand I knew it was something I was going to want to do the rest of my life. I grew up listening and studying music, and by high school I started a music channel on youtube. This is where a gained a moderate following singing covers. I have been officially recording music for over 10 years. I like to write music that is based on real experiences, and I try to make music as relatable for women as I can.
What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?
The most rewarding aspect from being an artist is seeing things that started off as just an idea in your head come to life. Whether I’m writing a song, or creating a painting, seeing my ideas manifest in the real world is what keeps me going.
Any resources you can share with us that might be helpful to other creatives?
I wish I would have used social media properly earlier in my journey. I had big viral moments, but did not strike while the iron was hot and did not stay consistent. I wish I would have known how to use social media to its fullest potential.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @shiloso
- Facebook: Courtney Shilo
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCe-GfrVI13wRHGk4ykm7nTA
Image Credits
Cameron Perry