Can you please introduce yourself and tell us a bit about your musical journey and background?
My name is Courtney Shilo. I’m a singer/songwriter from Beaumont, TX. I started my musical journey at a very young age. I started off singing in choir growing up and studying the R&B singers from the 90s and 2000s. In high school I started a youtube channel making covers of popular R&B songs. From there I started writing and recording my own music and have been doing it since.
Who are some of your biggest musical influences, and how have they shaped your sound and style?
Some of my biggest musical influences include Brandy, Destiny’s Child, Aaliyah, Mariah Carey, and Jazmine Sullivan. They have shaped my sound because these are the artists I studied growing up. There is something very special about that era of R&B that I try to stay true to in my music.
Can you share a specific artist or album that has had a significant impact on your music?
One of my favorite artists is Jazmine Sullivan. She is known for her powerhouse vocals but one of my favorite things about her is her songwriting. Her songwriting is so compelling to me because it tells a story. I’m very inspired by this type of writing and try to incorporate vivid storytelling in my music as well.
What’s your creative process like when you’re composing or writing a new song?
My creative process is very spontaneous. Many songs I’ve written are songs that have popped up in my head at random times like while driving. When I have this type of idea I record it using voice notes and go back and add all the elements to complete a song.
Among all the songs you’ve created, do you have a personal favorite? If so, what makes it special to you?
One of my favorite songs that I’ve done is my song “Make Up”. This is one of my favorite songs because I not only got to sing, but I was able to experiment and play around with rapping. I had a lot of fun making this song.
Can you share the story or inspiration behind that particular song?
I wrote this song to call a truce with somebody who was really upset with me. I feel like people aren’t vulnerable in their music anymore and I wanted to make a song that went back to the days when people weren’t afraid to sing about getting their person back.
Let’s talk about your latest song. What’s the title, and what’s the story or message behind it?
My latest single is called “Silence” I wrote this song as a plea for redemption after greatly offending somebody I cared about. « This song was born out of a personal journey through the tumultuous landscape of emotions. We’ve all experienced moments where our words have caused unintended pain, and it’s often in the silence that follows that we truly grasp the magnitude of our actions. ‘Silence’ is a plea for redemption, a chance to mend what was broken by my own hand. »
Share a memorable or unique experience from one of your live performances.
One of my favorite live performances was when I got the opportunity to perform at the Tampa Music Conference. I got to be a featured artist which was an honor. I also got the opportunity to meet a lot of amazing people who showed me a lot of love.
Beyond music, do you have any hobbies or interests that you’re passionate about? How do they influence your music?
Besides music, art is my other therapy. I paint and I also do printmaking. The subject matter of my art is portraits of my favorite R&B singers. My love for music directly informs my art.
Is there a dream collaboration you’d like to pursue in the future?
My dream collaboration would of course be Jazmine Sullivan.
What advice would you give to aspiring musicians who are just starting their journey in the music industry?
My advice to aspiring musicians is to learn about the business side of music as much as you can. Also build a solid team of people to help you along the way and enjoy your journey. Its very easy to compare yourself to your peers but try to avoid doing that.
Can you give us a sneak peek into any upcoming projects or new music you have in the works? What can your fans and listeners look forward to from you in the near future?
I am still shooting videos from my last EP, “Do Not Disturb”. I am also currently working on new music to be released in 2024.