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

Shala , appreciate you joining us today. When did you first know you wanted to pursue a creative/artistic path professionally?

I have always had a passion for music and the arts from a very young age. Growing up, I found myself drawn to various forms of artistic expression, whether it was painting, crafting, sewing, or music. As I navigated through different experiences and opportunities in life, I gradually realized that my true fulfillment came from engaging in music. It was during my time with the Americolor Opera Alliance in high school that I had a moment of clarity, realizing that I wanted to turn my passion into a profession. This was a magical experience because I got to witness and work professionally with African American Opera singers performing at the highest level. I saw myself in them and that a career in music was possible. Since then, I have been dedicated to honing my skills and pursuing a career that allows me to channel my creativity in a meaningful and professional way.

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 back background and context?

Hello everyone! I’m Shala Jenkins, and I’m thrilled to share a bit about myself and what I do. I am a professional opera singer and founder of Music Central, LLC.

My journey into music began at the age of 4 year old. I started singing in the church. Throughout my childhood my parents nurtured my musical talent by placing me in private vocal and instrumental lessons. I also participated in all musical and theatrical experience that were offered in my school and community. It was through these experience that I began to develop my ability as a performer. I currently perform with The Atlanta Opera. I have performed with other various musical groups such as the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, Americolor Opera Alliance, Orchestra Noir, Atlanta Afro American Choral, and Bach Society of Atlanta. I have competed in many vocal competition and place or was a finalist like in the Opera Ebony Vocal Competition.

I am not just only a performer but a founder of a company called Music Central, LLC. In terms of what I offer, Music Central, LLC has been around since 2017. Music Central’s mission is to provide a rich and quality musical experience for all generations and background. At Music Central we treat you like family. We push you to be your best and celebrate you success. We strive for all of our Music Central Family member to win. Music Central offers affordable virtual music lessons from top qualified musicians around the United States. We also provide performance opportunities for local musicians.

What sets me apart is as a performer is I am also a creative. I perform but also direct, so I can see the whole performance from multiple angles.

I take immense pride in the fact that I have found a way to do what I love everyday. If it is educating, performing, or creating opportunities for other musicians, I never feel like I am working. I get paid to do what I love everyday. I am able through my company to provide musical opportunities and educate the next generation of musicians. What I want you to know about me is that I want not just for me to succeed but for everyone who dreams of pursuing a career in music to have a chance to express themselves creatively. I’m passionate about music and I know how it has shaped and changed my life tremendously. It has given me a voice, a creative outlet and a way to express myself. I want to help provide this opportunity to anyone interested. I hope that my music inspires and encourage more beauty in the world.

I invite you to explore our social media pages. Check out upcoming events and success stories. Our Instrgram is @Music_Central_Ga, Facebook is @MusicCentralUSA. I’m always excited to engage, connect and collaborate with fellow industry enthusiasts, clients and creative minds. I can be reached at 8486 Campbellton St. #2274, Douglasville, GA 30133 or Email at [email protected].

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?

There has been many rewarding aspects of being an artist or creative. One that comes to mind is Music Central’s annual Christmas with Shala and Friends Concert. Every year, Music Central puts on an amazing Christmas Concert that help put people in the Christmas spirit. There was a little girl I showcased one year who wanted to give up performing. She said she had fallen out of love with the art and after performing the concert and being around all these talented artist found her love again. Its moments like that, that keep me going.

Is there mission driving your creative journey?

My goal or mission that drives my creative journey is spread love through music. Music is a universal language anyone can speak. I believe it is the one thing that can bring communities together. If I as a performer or a creative can spread love through music, I have left the world in a better place.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @Music_Central_Ga
• Facebook: MusicCentralUSA
• Other: 8486 Campbellton St. #2274, Douglasville, GA 30133 or Email at [email protected].

Image Credits
Rick Gore took the featured headshot.