Rising South African singer Ashlinn Gray has released the video for her debut single "Battleships!" Featured on the singer's self-titled EP, the moving, upbeat track definitely had a great music video to match its inspirational message.

“With my EP being built around light and dark, and 'Battleships' being the biggest symbol of these two opposites, I wanted the music video to emphasis this theme," Ashlinn said of the song. "What really makes this video special is that I was able to incorporate some of my favorite things in life: friends and family, celebration, and last but not least, sparklers." The singer continued, “Having such a cohesive team behind the makings of the video has made the experience unforgettable and has produced a product I am proud of.”

Check out the inspiring video below!

You can check out more from Ashlinn on her official website, as well as SoundCloud and YouTube. You can also connect with the singer on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram!

4:53:00 AM

Upcoming R&B singer Nyakz has released the visual for his latest track, Emotionless!"

The song and the visual, which features Columbian model Stefania V, openly showcases the ups and downs of a relationship, as well as potential infidelities. "Whenever you hear a song you want the visual to make sense and I feel the director and I achieved that vision," the singer said. "The video tells you a story about the realities of relationships that everyday people are constantly battling."

Check out the music video for "Emotionless" below!











Nyakz has also released his debut LP, In My Studio, which can be purchased now on iTunes and Bandcamp! You can hear more his music on SoundCloud and YouTube, as well as connect with him on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. 

10:30:00 AM

I'm truly grateful for genuine connections and mutual support. I have that with Miami designer Ashley Chin, who I have featured several times on The Spotlight! Over the years, Ashley has branched out into the fashion world tremendously through her styling ,her own designs and now  Lux House Mob brand, as well as writing and editing for Ally The Journalist. I've been proud to watch her grow!

Ashley shared with me today that she is retiring from styling to focus solely on the business side of fashion. From prayer and talking with her mom, she bravely made the decision to turn to a new chapter in her life. "I think it was me really discovering my true niche," the designer said. "I mean, I LOVE styling but I think its run its course and now I have to aim for higher and more challenging projects in order to grow."



Ashley is now working as Brand Ambassador for Vaughn Brian Clothing and Creative Director for twelveAM Clothing, two great brands that give Ashley the opportunity to learn and grow in the business side of fashion. "When I made the decision to work with VB, it was just the vision of the brand, the team is so amazing and their aura makes you just so motivated to do great things," she said. "As for my decision with Twelve AM, I was working with the owner pulling clothes for shoots and different projects, when one day, she spoke to me about becoming creative director of her brand in which I was thrilled." Ashley admires both brands and their creators so much, and she'll definitely do well in working with them.

Ashley's also working wholeheartedly on her own brand, Lux House Mob, which she can now really focus on. "When I first started with the name Vane For Decades, I think then I was still so indulged with styling that I couldn't give my full attention to my store to help raise it," she admitted.
Now I think I'm in a better space where I just want to focus solely on business and helping to raise it to its full potential." With new items on the website, and a denim collection coming this summer, Ashley made a sacrifice to benefit her future, which is commendable. "It's like a baby having a busy mother that makes the decision to work less so she can be there for her child," she said. "I'm working smarter, not harder."

I'm very, very proud of her, and know that she will continue to do great things! Shop Lux House Mob now! Also, be sure to also check out Ashley's official website and follow her on Twitter and Instagram! 

5:37:00 PM

Some new music for you! Alternative pop/R&B singer Ash, who has toured the last four years singing background with Janelle Monae, has dropped a new track called "Perfect."

Ash's pretty vocals really shine on the energetic and bubbly track! She sings a light-hearted message about finding a love that will do the simple things and that's perfect just the way he is. She doesn't need much. It's a very fun and light song that you just can't help grooving to! The song is the first single off her upcoming project, The Perfect EP, which is set to be released on February 10, 2015!

Check out the track below!


You can purchase "Perfect" on iTunes now! You can also listen to more from Ash on SoundCloud, as well connect with her on Twitter and Instagram. I'm also working on getting an interview with her soon, so be on the lookout! 

4:30:00 PM

New music to check out! Toronto's own Jhyve has released a new track, "Cocaine," and no, it's not about the powder. The singer uses the drug as a metaphor to describe addiction to love, and has come up with an emotional track that I think you guys will really love.

 Check out the beautiful ballad below!

You can learn more about Jhyve on his official website, hear more from him on SoundCloud and YouTube, and connect with him on Twitter and Instagram.

Let me know what you thought of the track below! And, of course, if you would like to feature your music on The Spotlight, email me BrittanyShawnte@gmail.com.

3:51:00 PM

Russian-born/LA-based soul singer Cooper Phillip is a true talent to behold! I want you all to check out her beautiful debut music video, "Silence," the first single from her Walk A Mile EP!

Released on October 6 and directed by Scott Nathan, the music video has a simple and classic black and white look, allowing viewers to focus more on Cooper's amazing vocals. She has serious soul and passion, and you hear it from the second she opens her mouth to sing! It's definitely a standout ballad, and I'm purchasing my copy right after I publish this!

Check out the video below!


Be on the lookout for a feature with Cooper on the blog soon! You can purchase "Silence" on iTunes now, as well as check out more from Cooper on her official website, Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter!

3:22:00 PM

Got another spotlight for you all on this wonderful Friday! Expect several within the next few weeks! As always, if you are an upcoming artist, designer, producer, etc., and you are interested in featuring your work on The Spotlight, email me (please allow some time for response)!

Today on the blog, we have G5 Elz! Exposed to music all of his life, the rapper learned and loved the art of rhyming. From Dr. Seuss books to watching rappers like The Notorious BIG, Jay Z and Nas, he quickly caught on to rapping. “By the time I was 8 years old, I began writing my own rhymes in school, preferably math class,” G5 joked. “Then it was always rapping in front of the TV like I was whatever rapper in the video with the remote in my hand.”

Hailing from Queens and living in NYC, G5 Elz recognizes that his environment has had a great deal of influence over his music. “My environment inspires everything because I’m seeing and hearing noises everyday then I incorporate that into my rhymes,” the rapper acknowledged. Though he always knew that creating music was his life’s purpose, he began to take his music seriously after his grandmother passed away in 2011. “I stepped my game up to another level and started molding solid projects, performing, and profiting.”

Currently the rapper has two mixtapes out, The NY Times and Bread and Butter, as well as his most recent EP 2nd Coming which is available on iTunes! Inspired by friendships, rough times, blessings, and his dreams, G5 worked with Keem Bel’air, Shawn Giftz, Halftime, and more on the project. You can also check out his current single “X-Drive” featuring Sv Don , just released on October 2, 2014, below!


G5 Elz is currently working on a new EP called Before Cameras, so definitely be on the lookout for that. In terms of his sound and how he differs from other artists, the rapper said, “I’d say I keep it organic [and] soulful, not trying hop on the trends of what is so-called ‘relevant.’” In the future, he plans to continue to create music, of course, but wants to branch out into various avenues including possibly books, television, movies, sneakers, and clothes, as well as helping kids break into the entertainment industry! I respect the ambition. It’s your life, your rules. You don’t have to stick to just one lane!

You can connect with G5 Elz on Twitter, and hear more of his music on YouTube and Soundcloud!

7:53:00 AM

I'm going to have some new music for you all throughout the day, so be on the lookout! The first track I'm featuring is from Canadian singer Tamara Madison! Just a little about Tamara: she hails from Toronto, and began singing at a very young age. Though exposed to a variety of genres by her parents, gospel is what took hold on her the most, as she grew up in church. Inspired by artists like Lauryn Hill and Bob Marley, the singer is steadily making a name for herself in the industry!

Her soulful influence is clear on her latest song "Crumble," featuring rapper Redway, off of her upcoming EP, Relapse: Part 2. This track expresses true vulnerability and anger as the hurt Tamara sings to her ex, wishing him bad luck with future relationships and life in general. I'm sure many other ladies (and maybe some guys too) have been in the same spot! Check out the hot track below!


The song may seem bitter to some, but I think it's a real track. When your heart is broken by someone you love, often times, you want them to fall apart so they can experience some of the same pain that you're feeling. Music is all about expression--the good, the bad, and the downright ugly. I'm definitely feeling this track. Tamara's vocals are on point, and she brings real passion to the song. Be sure to buy the track on Bandcamp, and look out for Relapse: Part 2 coming soon (listen to Relapse: Part 1 here)! You can also connect with Tamara on Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube!

7:12:00 AM

Always happy to feature artists and more on The Spotlight! If you are or represent a talented singer, rapper, designer, etc., please email their bio, quality pictures, and copies of their work to BrittanyShawnte@gmail.com (please allow time for response).

Today, we have talented Jamaican artist Bryan Art! Born in St. Ann, Jamaica, Bryan got his start in music at an early age, and learned to play the guitar at the age of eight. His mother actually taught him his first three primary chords that he continue to build upon throughout his life! The songwriter and producer graduated from the Edna Manly College of the Visual and Performing Arts, majoring in guitar (Caribbean, Latin American & Jazz Studies). Bryan spent his time there balancing guitar with photography and graphic art. He also took the time to teach music in Jamaican schools.

In his career, Bryan started out as a guitarist and touring member of the Legendary Fire House Band. The experience with the band gave him the opportunity to supporting artists like Luciano, Mikey General and Sizzla. In 2001, Bryan branched out on his own as a recording artist, releasing his first single “Soon Come Back,” which he produced along with Courtney (John) Morrison. He was eventually signed to Chris Smith Management / FIWI Music Label, making a name for himself in Jamaica with hits like “Rock and Come In,” and “Get It.” Bryan has performed locally and internationally throughout the Caribbean, the U.S., Canada, and Europe. He has also used his songwriting skills to pen songs for artists like Etana, George Nooks, Bushman, and more!

Inspired by artists like Dennis Brown, Toots Hibbert, Stevie Wonder, and Al Green, Bryan gives great vibes through his music. Obviously his music has a reggae/dancehall feel, but Bryan is great at creating songs with a positive message for listeners, so I definitely want you all to check him out! Listen to his Fresh Start EP below!

You can listen to more of Bryan's music on SoundCloud, and connect with him on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram!

8:03:00 AM

Today on The Spotlight, we have Australian artist Tim Wheatley! Born in Melbourne, Australia, he grew up in a family that was involved in music in one way or another. “My old man was a musician, and there was never a shortage of instruments lying around the house to kill some time on,” Tim said. Growing up in Australia, he always thought that the music had “quite a unique sound.” “Why that is I’m not exactly certain,” Tim said. “But I think it has a lot to do with the tyranny of distance. We take the music from places like the US and other parts of the world and put our own spin on it.”

The singer went on to form his own band in high school called The Sparrows, which signed with Sony a few years out of school. The band had gigs around Australia, the UK, and the States and was doing quite well. However, Tim and the lead singer Michael Badger, began moving in different musical and creative directions, and Tim left the group.

Inspired by artists like Jackson Browne, Tom Waits, John Hiatt, Paul Kelly and Guy Clark, Tim went on to create another band called Crooked Saint. “I wrote a song called ‘Crooked Saint’ loosely based around my grandfather. He fought in WWII and was quite decorated, however he was also known for being quite mischievous,” the singer said. “I wasn’t sure if I was going to be playing solo or in a band, but the project needed a name and I thought ‘Crooked Saint’ can be both. The line up consists of Michael Badger (guitars/bass…and coincidentally enough the lead singer of Tim’s old group!), along with Johnny Grant (guitar) and Troy Ramaekers (drums).

Together, the group came together to record the Crooked Saint EP, which was produced by Niko Bolas, who has worked with the likes of Neil Young, Johnny Cash, and Warren Zevon. The first single from the EP, “Burning the Midnight Oil,” is a track that definitely has an inspirational point for listeners. “It’s basically about doing what is necessary to get to where you want to be,” Tim said of the song. Check out the video for the song below!


You can check out more from Tim Wheatley and Crooked Saint on their official website, as well as Facebook and Twitter. Also be sure to check out their YouTube and SoundCloud channels!

7:48:00 AM

I’m always excited to feature people on The Spotlight, but even more so my girl Ashley Chin who is doing her thing in Miami, killing the fashion game with her styling and designing! Since our first encounter back in 2010, when I first interviewed her, we have stayed connected, and I’m so proud of her and happy for her success!

Now Ashley is heading into a new venture—a new style series entitled Style Zone with AC! “I’ve been doing fashion for so long with wardrobe styling and fashion designing, [but] I’ve always had an interest in broadcasting and was always told I have a natural ability to be on camera with confidence,” the designer stated. “I decided to create a stable foundation for myself and collaborate my two worlds.”







Though Ashley’s focus is fashion, the show expands beyond just style, featuring a variety of topics including music, art, and just over life experiences. “I didn’t want to just gear towards the fashion world because I felt as though it would be a bit cliché,” she said. “I want [viewers] to be able to view an episode and learn something new about the process of music, art, fitness, blogging, designing, and so much more. I want them to take in knowledge.”

The show will showcase “the lifestyle of different crafts within the industry, the process and growth with these amazing talents and again having that platform to just have voice to express their experience in the industry.” She plans to have the show air weekly, but is working on establishing great topics and interviews for the audience. In terms of balancing styling, designing, and the show, Ashley admits it’s a difficult challenge, but she’s definitely prepared to face it all head on! “I just try to keep a positive mind and keep myself in a zen balanced energy,” she said. “I’m a one-woman show!”

Check out a short clip of Ashley’s interview on the show with Miami designer Ashley G of Amp’d Up Apparel below! Be sure to check out Ashley's official website and follow her on Instagram! You can also directly email her, especially if you are in the Miami area, for more information on her own designs and styling rates! You can also follow Amp'd Up on IG as well to check out some of their clothes!

7:43:00 AM

Hailing from Toronto, Ontario, Canada, Krista Gonzales, known professionally as Graph Gonzales, became interested in music as a teenager, listening to hip hop and eventually recorded herself for fun. “It was probably what I spent most of my time doing as an individual, writing verses and recording them,” Graph said. “It was kind of a natural thing that happened.” The city of Toronto, Graph noted, has a very eclectic sound that she’s really inspired by, including great alternative and avant-garde rock music that influenced her sound a bit.

As a teen, she had a little nickname that a friend gave her—“Graph,” because her voice was “thin and airy, like spray pain coming out of a can,” she joked. However, that’s what she eventually went by professionally, adding on her last name Gonzales, after a suggestion by Pharrell Williams later on in life. Graph began working with various groups in Toronto and New York, building up experience by consistently working in the studio. Through hard work, she has collaborated with Pharrell and Chad Hugo of the Neptunes, Talib Kweli, Clipse, and more, just to name a few.
Now Graph has branched off on her own, developing her own music, which blends pop, rock, and rap. Her most recent track is the hot and bold “Heartbreaker!” The song was inspired by fellow Canadian artist Feist’s “I Feel It All, which has a line that Graph herself really connected to—“I’ll be the one to break my heart / I’ll be the one to hold the gun.” “That became a model for me in my life when I heard that song and that lyric,” she said. “That’s the way I want to live. That’s the way I want to love. I’ll be the one to break my heart. No one else.” The song, while still fun and upbeat, is also very bold and comes from a feministic approach, purposely done by Graph. Many times a “heartbreaker,” is seen as being a guy hurting a girl, but she wanted to do it from a female perspective. Check out the video for the song below!

Just from speaking with her, I see Graph truly has a strong vision for her music and career, and has a bright future ahead of her. Currently, she’s in the studio, constantly working on music, though keeping her plans on the low for now. I’m excited to see what new projects she brings to the table!

You can check out more of her music on SoundCloud and YouTube, and connect with her on Twitter and Instagram!

6:35:00 AM

More spotlights to come as we end the summer (is it me or has Summer 2014 FLOWN by?)! Today on The Spotlight, we have Villainettes, hailing from Melbourne, Australia (one of my favorite places in the world, for good reason! Check out my somewhat embarrassing yet fun blog on my experience a few years back).

The band recently came together in 2013, said to be born “amidst the ashes of three totally diverse bands.” Through friendships and professional connections, Villainettes were born! Vocalist and guitarist Michael Lindquist had begun to write, focused on some of his own personal life events, which helped to shape the band and their sound.



Michael soon partnered with friend and guitarist, Jonathan Reisacher, to develop and record a few demo at Red Door Sounds, with producer and friend Paul “Woody” Annison, where the first EP was recorded. The line up was completed after Francis White joined the band on drums (Michael and Francis had played together previously), and Joshua Dawes joined on bass (Michael had met Joshua at the studio while Joshua was recording with another band). “The desire to want to play together came from not so much like minded tastes in music but in likeminded minds in wanting to achieve a collaborative distinct sound we are all proud of,” the band said in our interview.

The Villainettes’ sound has been described as “dark, erotic pop,” somewhat strange and gloomy, but yet still full of life and liveliness. Overall, these members have managed to come together and create a sound for themselves that works for them. Hailing from Melbourne, the band definitely is in the midst of a heavy musical culture. “The music scene here is very diverse, but holds quiet true to a very European influence,” they said.

Currently, the band is putting their finishing touches on their self-titled EP, which is set to be released in full later this year. Some of the music is available now on SoundCloud and Spotify, so be sure to check that out! You can also watch their music video for acclaimed track, “Diamonds,” directed by Bianca Miliani, below!



In addition to their EP, the band is consistently writing and recording new music to build a debut album, as well as touring throughout Australia, with plans to hit the States towards the end of the year! In the future, the Villainettes hope to “be bigger than the Beatles,” but, most importantly, to have their music hit a global scale, while still maintaining creative control and artistic integrity.

You can get more info about the Villainettes on their official website, as well as connect with them on Facebook and Twitter!

7:40:00 AM

Keeping up with my goal of at least one spotlight a week (no matter what day it falls on *smiles*)! Still looking for great writers & bloggers as well to develop more content for the site, so email me at BrittanyShawnte@gmail.com for more information! 

Today, on The Spotlight, we have rock/alternative band Buffalo Sunn! Based in Dublin, Ireland, the group utlilizes retro 60s sounds as well as modern day beats to make up their unique sound. Four of the band’s members are actually brothers (the Paxton brothers--Daniel, who serves as songwriter, guitarist, and lead vocalist, Neil, who plays the keys, guitar and delivers backing vocals, Conor on keys and guitar and Ruairi on bass). The other two members (“honorary members of the Paxton clan) are Donagh O’Brien who plays drums, and Patrick McHugh who sings and plays guitar. The Paxton brothers themselves were sent to learn piano at an early age. “We hated it at the time because we had to go every Friday straight from school,” Daniel, who served as spokesman in this interview, recalled. “So while everyone was off for the weekend playing, we had to go to lessons!” However, after a few years, the brothers got the hang of piano and picked up guitar quite easily as well, becoming true musicians at just 12, 13 years old!

When the band officially formed, they first went by Sweet Jane, releasing their album Sugar For My Soul along with several EPs together. In October 2013, they officially changed their name to Buffalo Sunn, with the idea coming from knowledge of Native American tribes and their hunting yet respect of the buffalo. “They hunted the buffalo in a way that they got everything they needed from the animal like food, cloth, [and] tools,” Daniel said. “It was the center of their [lives], and a very scared animal as they respected it. [It] was never over hunted [by them].” The second part of their name, “Sunn,” stemmed from the sun which gives crops and heat. The band added the second “n,” taking from the vintage amp company, Sunn.

When it comes to their music, Buffalo Sunn takes inspiration from a variety of different artists like the Beach Boys, CSNY, and ABBA. “I think when it comes to our sound, the music that would inspire us is a lot of bands using harmonies,” Daniel said. “I’m a sucker for good harmonies.” The band’s latest track, “By Your Side,” is taken from their upcoming debut album, By The Ocean, which is set to be released later this year. The mid-tempo track produced by Grammy award winning producer Pat McCarthy, can be seen from a standard relationship or friendship point of view, being there for someone through it all. Daniel says was made “to evoke an emotion from the listener,” which, if you take the time to listen, it definitely will stir up feelings for those you love in your life! Get your copy of this great single now on iTunes, and check out the video below!


Though Buffalo Sunn’s debut album isn’t even out yet, they’ve already started working on their next album, which will have about 15 tracks. In terms of what sets them apart, Daniel just says the band does their own thing and hope that people like and connect with it all. “I think it’s when you really try hard to please people or try to cash in on a current scene that’s when you’re f****d,” he said honestly. “We love playing music and the biggest reward is playing to people who really dig our sound.”

You can check out more from Buffalo Sunn on their official website and SoundCloud, as well as connect with them on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube!

5:04:00 AM

I absolutely love how many international artists I have had the opportunity to feature on The Spotlight this year! It’s always cool to feature people outside of the U.S. to give you all a little taste of what the outside world really has to offer. It’s also allowed me to talk with a lot of awesome people! Getting back into the swing of things after all of these vacations and whatnot, so I have even more in the works!

Today, we have Australian pop/rock artist Travis Caudle! Travis admitted that he fell in love with music at a really young age. “Dad was always into stereo systems in a big way and buying the latest records and Mum plays piano, so it was always around,” he said, even recalling his first concert experience at the toddler level! “I clearly remember being at a Neil Diamond concert in Perth, Western Australia where I’m from, when I was two or three and wondering why he had red, green and blue hair (the lights!!!). Mum and Dad must not have been able to find a babysitter that night!” he joked.
At 15, Travis’ father bought him an old classical guitar, and he was taught a few chords by a family friend. Travis quickly taught himself to play guitar, and discovered that he could also sing. From there, he tried songwriter, and began to play sets around his area with some cover and original songs. Travis’ older brother would often buy him albums for his birthday, which sparked his love of music even more. Often, they along with friends would go to gigs by Australian bands, which had an impact on Travis’ own music. Inspired by bands like The Church, The Cure, Lloyd Cole and The Commotions, the singer admitted that his music was influenced by home. “I often get told my music has an international flavor but simultaneously a distinctly Australian sound,” he said. Songwriters like Steve Kilbey, Colin Hay, George Harrison and Lloyd Cole are also some of Travis’ favorite songwriters that he looks to for inspiration. “Their lyrics have an amazing depth and poetry to them that never cease to amaze me,” the artist acknowledged.

Travis recorded his first two electric albums, Trips Between Worlds and Signals, with producer Tim Powles, who also serves as the drummer for Australian band The Church. “This is where I first experienced completely immersing myself in music and creativity in the studio because I was in Sydney and away from home,” he recalled. Most recently, the singer released his EP, It’s Just You, which dropped in December 2013. “The EP is a collection of songs that straddle a few different themes like life on the road, loss and being a new parent but, overall, it’s about the process of stripping back your conditioning as a human being and questioning your life and who you are, at the very deepest levels so that you can enjoy the moment you’re in” Travis said of the project. “Much of it focuses on taking back the power you have to change all the habits and emotions that have over time come to run you, but don’t necessarily serve you.” Check out the video the title track, “It’s Just You,” below!


Currently, Travis is busy recording more songs with US-based Grammy-nominated Australian producer Mark Moffatt. The studio experience, in spite of the obvious exhaustion it can bring, is still a thrilling time for this artist! “It’s like there’s a huge amount of space to create and experiment and you never quite know where a song is going to ultimately end up, so being in that atmosphere of potential is a unique type of energetic experience that I find exhilarating,” he said. No word on when those songs will be released just yet, but Travis is sure to have some great music up his sleeves for listeners! He’s also about to head out on a few tour dates in the States, so be sure to check him out!

In terms of what sets him apart from other artists, he believes that his creativity that stretches beyond any one particular genre that makes him stand out. He does what he feels, regardless of what people may think, which is honestly rare in music these days. “It’s pretty simple for me – I hear something in my head and then I do whatever I have to do to get it out of my head and onto an album, whether it’s going to be considered cool or not,” he stated. In the future, the singer-songwriter wants to have a successful career, and connect with others through his music. However, that’s not his first concern when it comes to his career. “The most important thing to me is to live an inspired life and produce inspired music,” Travis said. “When a song comes to me from nowhere and I’m wandering around trying to make sense of what I’m hearing and get it out of my head, there’s nothing like it. I’m totally in the music and the thing that’s furthest from my mind is my career. If I can stay inspired and keep feeling compelled to record and play music, that would be a great future."

You can check out more from Travis on his official website, as well as YouTube and SoundCloud. You can also connect with him on Facebook and Twitter!

11:10:00 AM

I have a lot of spotlights coming up, and even more submissions to look through soon. I plan to
hopefully have at least one spotlight a week for a bit, while I catch up (*fingers crossed*). As always, if you or your client is an upcoming singer, rapper, actor, designer, etc., please email me at BrittanyShawnte@gmail.com (Please give at least two weeks for response). 

Today on The Spotlight, we have singer/songwriter Constance Renoir! Raised in Brooklyn, NY, Constance got into music at a very young age. “I would say, by 9 years old, I had written my first song, and I knew that I could really sing,” she said. In junior high, the singer had what she called “sort of a life changing experience,” when she was asked by her music teacher, Ms. Christie, to perform in a talent show. “I had never performed before, and so I didn’t know which song to sing, so she recommended to me that I perform Mariah Carey’s ‘Hero,’” Constance recalled. “Once I grabbed that mic, and sang those specific lyrics, I knew that was what I wanted to do.” From there on, she started following Mariah’s music, trying to match both her vocals and songwriting skills.

In addition to Mariah, she’s inspired by some of the great artists that also call NY home, including the Notorious BIG, Jay Z, Lil Kim, Mary J. Blige, and Aaliyah. “My sound is a fusion of all those people,” the singer said. “I call it hip hop soul, or ‘soul pop.’” Her music has a fun, 90s’ chill vibe, which is definitely inspired by her Brooklyn roots. “I believe that you can make mainstream music that still has some meaning. It doesn’t have to sound fake or forced,” she said, expressing that when she makes music, she makes it with a purpose. “I mean what I say in my lyrics. They are things I’ve seen and experienced,” Constance added.

In our interview, I asked Constance specifically why she thought it was important to bring back that hip hop soul feel from music back in the day. She gave a honest answer. “There is no real distinction between hip hop and R&B on the radio. Rappers sing and singers rap,” Constance said. “When I sit with kids my age (16-21), all they do is complain about how much trash they hear on the radio. They want to hear music that doesn’t aim to disrespect women, or make them want to do negative things. They just wanna vibe.” Taking “Can’t You See,” by 90s R&B group Total ft Biggie as an example, the artist continued: “That first line makes me jump out my seat. ‘Give me all the chickenheads from Pasadena to Medina!’ That line is fun without being over done. Simplicity needs to make a comeback.” I definitely agree. It’s clear that Constance is doing just that with her own music!

In November of 2013, Constance released her first single, pop/R&B track "Rain,” which was originally sung by Brooklyn artist Razah. The song got great feedback, and was featured on several urban blogs. In February of this year, Constance released her first original single, “Still Lonely,” on Valentine’s Day. Telling the story of being caught in a love triangle, Constance’s vocals and raw emotion truly shine on the track, letting her true experiences shine through in her lyrics.

When Constance emailed me her most recent track, “Around The Way Girl,” over to me, I immediately was jamming. Inspired by her own life and how she likes to have a good time partying with her friends, being “the baddest girls in the building all for fun,” the singer decided to make a song for the girls “who aren’t too stuck up to hang.” The track was recorded at Brook Brovaz studio with Constance’s favorite engineer Kia. Check out the fun track below!


Currently, the singer is working on a 2 part demo called R and Beat, which will be released sometime later this month. “Around The Way Girl” was the first single from the “Beat” side of the demo, while Constance will release her newest single “You and I,” from the “R” side, which will “feature a softer side and focus on vocal harmonies.”

In terms of what makes her stand out from other artists, Constance believe it’s her edge that puts her above the rest. “I’m not cutesy or super polished,” she admitted. “But I think that’s what my fans will love about me. Everything I sing about is really from me.” She has dreams of really making an impact on this industry, make exceptional music and growing as an artist. Many artists, of course, have dreams of getting signed, sell records, winning awards, and going on tours, and Constance doesn’t count herself out from that. However, she also wants to “inspire, spread love, and be inspired.” The singer is truly working towards her goals solo, and doing a great job so far. “All I have is music right now and I’m just trying to bring my visions to life while staying true to myself. I know if the world gives me a chance, I won’t disappoint,” Constance said. It’s only upwards from here!

Be sure to check out more from Constance on her official website as well as SoundCloud, and follow her on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram! 

6:41:00 PM

I am on the train back from a beautiful vacation in Montreal, which I plan to blog on sometime this week on my personal site, BrittanyShawnte.com, as well as showcase some pictures and video here of the LEGENDARY Diana Ross, who I saw on the Fourth of July! In the meantime, I'm working to get quite a few spotlights up (the backlog on these is honestly a mess due to my outside jobs and issues, but I'm working on them!). As always, if you are interested in being featured on The Spotlight, please email me at BrittanyShawnte@gmail.com. (With the huge amount of requests, please allow a few weeks for response).

Today, on The Spotlight, we have Australian singer-songwriter Vanessa Elisha! Vanessa became involved in music rather early, growing up in a musical environment. From the TV to the radio, Vanessa heard music everywhere she went. Her dad would even drum on her back as a baby (softly!). “He always says he ‘drummed the rhythm into me,’ the singer said.

Inspired by artists like Lauryn Hill, Aaliyah, Jon B, and Monica, Vanessa acknowledges that her music has a “90s feel with a twist.” She also draws inspiration from her Assyrian roots. “I have hundreds of relatives,” she said. “We always gathered for barbecues and family functions, [and] there was always singing, whether in English or Assyrian (Middle Eastern).”

The singer released her EP, Don’t Go, without any backing from a major label. For the project, Vanessa stated that it all stemmed from her writing one song—“Blur,” which she was encouraged to release on SoundCloud and received great reception, which caused her to take her craft more seriously. She literally wrote and recorded the EP on her own, using producers GXNXVS and Cviro to develop beats. “I wrote about my life, what was happening, how I felt,” she said of the EP. “The beats inspired me more than anything else. The rest is just my story.”


Most recently, Vanessa has released a few other tracks this year, including her song, “Ocean.” “Water has been a major influence on these last couple of songs,” the singer said. “I find the juxtaposition of a relationship and water quite haunting. Vanessa continued: “There are also nuances of reflection in my lyrics, pondering my own existence. I guess you could say, 'I don’t know where I go, I don’t know where I fit in.'”


Vanessa feels like her perspective and musicality is different, which makes her stand out in a sea of upcoming artists. She likes to think of her music as “genre-less,” consistently creating music through her own emotions and life experiences. Constantly writing and in the studio, the singer plans to come out to LA soon and see which doors open up for her there. In terms of the future, Vanessa wants to continue to be “an artist above all else,” and a writer for herself and for others. “I just want to put pen to paper, create melodies, and vibe out for the rest of my life,” she said.

Be sure to check out more from Vanessa on her official website, as well as SoundCloud. You can also follow her on Facebook and Twitter!

2:06:00 PM

Working hard to feature a few different artists this week! As always, if you or someone you know, is an upcoming artist, producer, actor, etc., and are interested in a feature, please email me at BrittanyShawnte@gmail.com!

Today on The Spotlight, we have Brazilian singer Natalia Damini! This upcoming star has had her sights on music since she was only five years old. “I remember when I was singing, imagining a crowd of fans in front of me. That was so fun!” she said. “ I have been dreaming [about] this my whole life.” When she was 17, she met a DJ that was looking for a singer to put on his record. He only had music, and not any lyrics, so Natalia wrote the track, which became her first single “Feelin’ The Love.” “The people liked it and the DJs started sharing the song all over the country and outside, I had a demand for shows and that's how everything started,” the singer said. Natalia eventually left home for Sao Paulo alone, touring around Brazil to pursue her dream.

Inspired by legendary artists like Michael Jackson, Elvis Presley, Madonna, and Britney Spears, Natalia uses her music to truly express herself. “My songs are about my personal feelings, my experiences in life and my friends’ experiences too. I write about things that people can relate to,” the singer said. Throughout her career so far, the 22-year-old has toured all over Brazil, including in Sao Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, Salvador, and several other big cities. She collaborated with Lil Wayne and Rezzo on Rezzo’s song, “Can’t Stop Me,” as well, which happened because of her team Concore Entertainment and Charve The Don, along with Cash Money. “I was very excited to do that because Lil Wayne is one of my favorite rappers,” Natalia said of the track. “So when I got the record, I wrote my part. Lil Wayne and Cash Money loved the record.” She went on to say: “The lyrics of the song [are] very personal. You can’t let nobody stop you or stop your dreams, and sometimes the dreams might be everything you have.”

Most currently, Natalia has dropped her debut album, Beautiful, which was released in January 2014. The album, which reached #16 on iTunes Pop Music charts, features collabs from Nicki Minaj, Gucci Mane, the Shop Boyz, and more! “The basic concept of the album is about not outer beauty, but about being and feeling beautiful inside,” the singer said of the album. “We wanted to put a variety of music that everyone can relate to with great melodies and nice choruses.” Natalia said.

Already, the singer is working on a new album, which will be released later this year. She’s also working on a feature with Dream Kayris, and she will also be featured on the cover of Mr. Dreamz Magazine in their next issue. In terms of what separates her from other artists right now, the singer feels that her music and performances stand out the most. “I bring to [audiences] that energy they never felt before,” she said. Natalia wants her music to inspire and motivate people to reach their dreams, just like she is. In terms of her career, she is grateful to God for the success that she is having right now. “I feel very grateful that my music is so widely accepted, especially for being the first artist from Brazil having a major impact in America,” the singer said. In the future, she wants to tour worldwide in arenas and do great things to help people. Definitely a talented artist to be on the lookout for!

You can connect with Natalia on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube and SoundCloud!

Interview courtesy of Jeffrey Pollack/Thoroplated Productions and Charve the Don

8:22:00 AM

I have a great spotlight (and a lot more on the way, slowly but surely!). As always, if you are or know of an upcoming artist, designer, producer, etc, please email me at brittanyshawnte@gmail.com.

Today on The Spotlight, we have upcoming singer Montrey Slayton! Born in Springfield, IL and moving to Marianna, Arkansas for most of his childhood. Montrey grew up in a musical family, so his singing talent was always evident. “We didn’t have a lot growing up but we ALWAYS had music. If our lights was out, we put batteries in the boom box and it’s like all of our problems faded away,” he said. He and his family eventually moved to Milwaukee, WI, in 2004, which Montrey calls a “gem” in terms of music. “We try to be different than other cities like Atlanta or Houston. You could hear in certain people music where they from. But it’s such a mix of originality in Milwaukee that you would always hear something new and unheard of,” the singer said of the city. Once he graduated from high school, Montrey recognized that he had a gift of writing music. That’s when he decided to record his first demo and take his music seriously.

Montrey eventually auditioned for the hit singing competition, The Voice, which he called an amazing experience “I didn’t make it to the celebrity judges but I beat out many other talented vocalists in the first 2 rounds,” he said. “I think the experience motivated me a lot to keep striving! I was honestly on the verge of quitting music but after making it as far as I did, it gave me the confidence I needed to keep going.”

Montrey’s latest single “Cake” was inspired by a situation in his own life, and believes that so many men go through the same thing every day. “I always try to be as real as possible in my music and give the audience something they can relate to,” he said of the song. “Once I heard the beat to this song, the melody came to me right away. And seeing that I don’t put words to paper when I went to the studio to record it, the situation came to my head and the words just came to me.”


Montrey recently just signed a distribution deal to release his upcoming EP, Melody Within. “This EP [is] kind of mellow and soft. Something for the ladies to put on when they coming home from a long day of work and just want to relax in a hot bubble bath with a glass of wine.” he said. The singer thought of at least 10 titles for this project, but this one stuck out to him. “It explains my passion for music. Melodies are always in my head and I’m always singing wherever I am so I stuck with that title.”

Though his EP is his main focus right now, Montrey plans on releasing a mixtape sometime in the winter. The singer will also be re-releasing his first album, Love At First Sight, with a few new tracks and new artwork. In terms of his music standing out in the R&B industry today, the singer is focused on creating substance in his music. “Everyone is so focused on sex, drugs and strip clubs,’ he admitted truthfully. There’s a handful of artists who actually makes music about life, relationships, and love. That’s what I bring to the table. People, especially young people don’t know any of the good music we grew up on. I’m trying to bring back the soul and storytelling to music.” In terms of his career, his focus isn’t fame or fortune, but merely only working on music full-time. “I do have a goal of performing at a sold out show in Madison Square Garden, though! That would be a dream come true!” he exclaimed.

You can check out more from Montrey on SoundCloud, as well as connect with him on Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube!

8:54:00 AM

I'm blessed to be able to share with you all these amazing spotlights of talented artists, designers, producers, and more! I get more and more requests every month, and it blows me away! As always, if you are interested in featuring your work (or your client's work) on The Spotlight, feel free to email me! 

Today we have on the blog, model/actor Frankito Arias! Frankito is relatively new to the industry, and was introduced to acting and modeling back in 2011 by his current manager, Tahyira Savanna. “The truth is, it was just something fun to do and she thought I had real skill.” The duo were both new to their jobs—Frankito to acting and modeling and Tahyira to managing—but they gave it a shot anyway. “The response was so good, we started to take it more seriously and now that I have had a taste of what it is I found my true path,” the actor admitted.

Born in Yonkers, NY, but raised in Brooklyn, Frankito admitted that the “grind go-hard mentality” of the city helps motivate him to be great. “They say if you can make it here you can make it anywhere so I give it my all,” the model said. “I come from immigrants—my entire family is from the Dominican Republic. It is a poor place with little opportunity. I want to make a difference over there as well,” he added.

Inspired by Jim Carrey, Leonardo DiCaprio, and Denzel Washington, whom Frankito believes have all been able to bring various characters to life on the screen, the actor has already started developing his portfolio and building up his experience. He's played characters in several short films, as well as posed for a variety of photo shoots. Two of his favorite projects that he’s done so far is his work on Discovery ID’s Deadly Affairs, as well as an action shoot he did on the Coney Island Boardwalk during his first year as a model.


Most recently, the actor started a monologue series on YouTube, doing famous monologues from movies to showcase his skills. “My manager and I talked and we figured, since I am still building my resume and I have never had professional coaching, it would be cool to film monologues and release them via my channel,” Frankito said of the idea. “I can get more practice, it helps me for cold readings during auditions, and I get to keep my craft active which is always the most important thing.” He chose the Joker from The Dark Knight (famously played by the late Heath Ledger) because it was difficult and challenging. He also chose Bryan Mills from Taken (played by Liam Neeson), which utlizied a prop for a phone scene, which he wanted to get experience using. Sometimes, in order to break into the industry you love, you have to come up with creative ideas to get yourself noticed and build up your resume (I know that for myself....that's how Spotlight came to be in the first place!)

Currently, Frankito’s main focus is finding an agent both in New York and Los Angeles, continuing to audition on both the East and West Coasts. His drive is what he feels like separates him from other actors and models. “I will make it, and I will not stop until I do,” he said adamantly, stressing the importance of also having a team behind him to make it. He and his manager are on constant grind mode to make his dreams for his career come true, and Frankito definitely has major dreams to keep him motivated. “I would love to own my own production company one day,” the actor said, currently writing scripts in his spare time and developing story ideas for both film and TV. “I want to star in great projects, meet and learn from awesome people, and continue to inspire others to chase their dreams—no matter what kind of dream it is.” Go get it! Frankito is certainly ambitious and hardworking, and has the talent to reach his goals!

Check out more from Frankito on his online portfolio as well as his official website! 

10:57:00 AM