Today we’d like to introduce you to Sha’ Leah Nikole.
Sha’ Leah, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
I grew up in South Central LA, and my mom was a single mother who wanted to make sure her children weren’t caught up on the streets. She put my brother and I in Amazing Grace Conservatory(AGC), and that is where my love of the arts was cultivated. It was at AGC I fell in love with acting and learned I could sing. Throughout my years at AGC my confidence and skill level as a performer blossomed. I did multiple musicals, sang in a girl group, and performed all over LA. When I graduated from Alexander Hamilton High School Music Academy, I headed to Alfred University in New York where I furthered my studies.
When I graduated, I moved back home and decided I wanted to really pursue being a music artist. I put everything I had into it, I began working with my family 1500 or Nothin. I would go up to the studio daily and write. It was with 1500 or Nothin that I got my first placement. That placement was on the incomparable Nipsey Hussle’s “Feelin Myself” a moment I will forever cherish.
I continued writing and performing and over the years, I have worked with many artist and established a name for my self not only as a music artist but as actress/ performer as well.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
Like anything worth having, it’s not easy. I’ve heard so many No’s along this road and have sometimes been discouraged. I know God has given me a one of a kind talent and that keeps me going. I know my artistry changes and inspires so many, and that I was keeps me going. I know it’s bigger than me.
We’d love to hear more about your work and what you are currently focused on. What else should we know?
As an artist, I know that performing is only apart of my job. A part of my job as an artist is to use my platform to push the culture forward and serve my community. Not only am I focused on sharing my music I am interested in empowering my community.
I started an organization called My footprints LA whose mission is to encourage, inspire and ignite the minds of young people through mentorship and service.
What were you like growing up?
Growing up, I was shy at times, but when you got to know me I was funny and outgoing.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.shaleahnikole.com/
- Instagram: @shaleahnikole
- Facebook: @shaleahnikole1
- Twitter: @MsShaleah2U
- Other: https://www.myfootprintsla.com/
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