We were lucky to catch up with Jenny Shawhan recently and have shared our conversation below.

Jenny , thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us 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 started by taking piano lessons, then singing came after playing a handful of instruments. I majored in voice at Belmont University, then got out there and started gigging. It was a slow process and songwriting came much later. I remember my first attempts at songwriting, I felt like I had no clue what I was doing. However, the more I opened up to it, the more I started catching little melodies and phrases coming to me to build my songs.

To speed up the process – fail faster. Just do the thing on your heart and that will lead to the next step. I think what is most important is showing up every day for what you’re interested in, and not being afraid to experiment. Also putting yourself out there and surrounding yourself with like minded people who want to help and have been where you see yourself going is key.

For me, the most essential skills have not been the musical ones. It’s the life skills – how to communicate with people, how to take care of yourself as you pursue your dream, how to handle the business side of things.

What stood in the way…that’s an interesting question.
I’ll quote Stephen R. Covey, “The way we see the problem is the problem”. It’s all about shifting perspective and getting out of your own way. And learning to trust and believe in yourself…which also comes from doing.

Jenny , love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

I’m a Denver based musical artist I got into the industry by studying music in Nashville and landing my first job in music publishing. In 2020, I signed with Coastal Bend Music (John Macy, Mighty Fine Studios) and released my debut album “Don’t Be Afraid” last July. Leading up to this, I have been a full time musician for several years – playing everywhere from Bluebird Cafe Nashville to the 2016 Super Bowl Parade with Big Head Todd.

My music is likened to Americana stylings – Mary Chapin, Bonnie Raitt, Elle King. I currently perform showcase sets, festivals, opening and headliner slots, listening rooms, ticketed shows, tours, and private events. I play solo and with a band. You can expect to hear original songs and the occasional favorite cover.

It has been a long road. I’m most proud of never giving up and sticking with my dream no matter what. My goal is to inspire and empower my audience to do whatever lights them up. “We all have a story and we’re here to be of service to each other. It’s time to celebrate and have some fun now.”

Are there any resources you wish you knew about earlier in your creative journey?

Durango Songwriter’s Expo – it’s a community of songwriters, in a conference setting a few times a year offering support, education, and industry feedback on your craft. It’s where I have met some of my best friends in the business.

Can you tell us about a time you’ve had to pivot?

Covid has been a major pivot – from full time gigging to a dead stop. The silver lining was the time to regroup and make my album.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.jennyshawhan.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jennyshawhan/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jennyshawhan
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-XEns5PESIQjzbPShra8tA

Image Credits
Studio Photography by Shana Cook Live Photos by Johnnie Medina