Designer of the Month: Shay- Singer, Songwriter, Jewelry Designer
Shayna Johansen is a self-taught jewelry designer. The native New Yorker launched her first collection, IMperfection Jewelry, in her own store (Shay’s Boutique, St. Croix USVI) in November of 2009 . Since, she has developed a strong following across the Virgin Islands and US coastal states. Having worked hard to build up a name for herself, she is now ready to share her other life passion with the world, singing. With a enchanting, almost sirenic voice(undoubtedly due to her island roots) and wonderful songwriting skills, Shayna, a.k.a Shay, let her soul speak in her debut album titled, “Stay Open.”
You’re a jewelry designer turned singer/ songwriter. Beyond being totally sweet, you are incredibly creative and choose to express yourself in a not-so-likely combination. So, lets start from the beginning with the jewelry line. What is the story behind this?
While I dabbled in recording and studio writing early on, I also found a niche in fashion. I’ve owned a women’s boutique for 8 years and have enjoyed styling friends and family for much longer. IMperfection Jewelry was born when I realized that my own perfectionism was constantly standing in my way. Of course one should always strive for excellence, but I was forever convincing myself that what I was doing wasn’t good enough. Once I got over the fear of failure and criticism, and realized that the power of creativity is a divine gift that should not be over-analyzed, I was free. Free to believe that whatever I had to offer was beautiful and unique.
Music for you is obviously another form of artistic expression, When did you get started?
I’ve been singing since I was a little girl in my father’s church, and began writing songs in my teens. Growing up in New York, gospel, smooth jazz and R&B were my early influences. I fell in love with neo-soul during college, and grew to appreciate conscious reggae in the years that I lived on St. Croix.Some of the artists that have really inspired me over the years have been Sade (my fave!), India.Aire, Jill Scott, Aaliyah, Brandy, Amel Larrieux, Maxwell, Billie Holiday, and many more
Just as each piece of your jewelry is unique, so is your music. Each of your songs has a story behind it, how would you describe your style?
I would describe my sound as a smooth, sultry blend of pop, soul, jazz, and reggae. The lyrical content is focused on real experiences.
So you have your own boutique in St. Croix, your IMperfection jewelry line, and a debut album. Your hitting us with a lot here, what else can we expect to see from you in the next year? 5 years?
Short term, I’d like to find balance with Shay’s Boutique, IMperfection Jewelry, my music career, and most importantly, my family. After that, who knows? A clothing collection? Maybe a restaurant (laughing) ? Whatever I do, I know that giving back will be at the heart of it. There are so many worthy causes out there and my husband and I are very committed to helping out when and where we can. For example, 20% of sales from IMperfection Jewelry’s premier collection went to Haiti Community Support, Inc. when the island was divested by the earthquake. We look forward to growing our businesses so that our giving can grow too
If nothing else, what emotion or message do you want the listener to leave with after hearing your album?
I want the listener to able to identify with the emotions conveyed through each song. The album explores the longing for escape (Mr. Melody), the headiness of falling in love (High On You, Beautiful), the struggles of everyday life (It’s OK, Open Up Your Eyes) and the ups and downs of relationships (Back To Me, Don’t Believe It) among other themes. The title song, Stay Open, was written for my husband, and celebrates the importance of honesty – even to the point of vulnerability – in love. If I had to choose a prevailing theme, it would be an open and honest approach to love, life, each other, and ourselves.
JUST RELEASED: The official music video for “Mr. Melody.” The first single off Shay’s debut album Stay Open
Listen to Shay on Facebook
See the Imperfection Jewelry collection
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