Meet Shaan Mehta

Today we’d like to introduce you to Shaan Mehta.

Thanks for sharing your story with us Shaan. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
I am a music producer from New Zealand. My journey started from college, where I was a journalism/advertising major. My dream was to study in the United States so I could better my skills as a producer. I did an exchange to the University of Missouri for a semester and it was there where I developed my skills working with aspiring rappers/singers mostly from the midwest (Chicago).

I returned back to New Zealand to finish my degree and it was there where I landed a graduate scholarship to intern at Paramount Recording Studios in Hollywood, thus starting my career and lifestyle in Los Angeles. Working there was an experience like no other. I was helping manage iconic studios where many major label artists would be working on their albums. Whilst working there, I began producing many songs for Atlantic Records and eventually landed a 3-year working visa. I moved to Chicago for half a year working with local artists and musicians but have since been living and working in Los Angeles as a music producer and songwriter, being in sessions with many artists and fellow musicians. I have broadened my network of friends and clients within the industry and have many exciting projects and collaborations in the works. I recently released my first single as a producer-artist. It is called “The Waves” and is the first single off my upcoming debut album “Too Far From Home”. I will be flying back to LA very soon as I decided to come home to New Zealand and be with family over the global pandemic.

Has it been a smooth road?
I feel like everyone’s journey in LA comes with some bumps and bruises being that it’s a highly competitive city with overwhelming opportunities. I couch-surfed a lot during my first year in LA, which was rough but I’m thankful for my friends who looked out for me. Many sleepless nights and stressed over trying to land certain opportunities with industry reps and potential artists. You would see literally everyone in Hollywood and at times, it would be over-exciting, knowing that your life could change from one handshake or conversation. I met many famous figures out there and made my best effort to make connections that most people wouldn’t get. You have to get people to invest in you, but for most people you can’t take shortcuts to the top. You will see many acts have opportunities just fall in their laps, and it can feel like a lottery. I had to learn how to be content with life in LA and enjoy the surroundings just to find peace in overbearing surroundings. Simple things, like going for hikes, going to your local taco truck, or hitting Manhattan beach is vital for your wellbeing and allows you to appreciate that there’s more this city offers than just the entertainment industry.

Can you give our readers some background on your music?
My business is in music production and songwriting. I am a hip hop/rnb producer that has a deep appreciation for its roots. I find it so important to invite emotion into music and not let it slip away. The music today is very hit formulated and most of today’s songs don’t tell a story. I try and paint a narrative in every song I compose and write. I play the keys and guitar, which I incorporate in my music. I want to bring a vibe to the listener so I make sure there’s elements that really move you emotionally, where its slow RnB that creates nostalgia or feel-good trap music. I make sure to blend today’s sound in with something new and fresh.

Let’s touch on your thoughts about our city – what do you like the most and least?
LA is a city that conjures a different type of motivation. Aside from the glitz and glamor, there are highly successful people and major opportunities that aspires you to bring your a-game every day. Even health and fitness, because it’s great weather, great beaches, and many healthy eateries around, you want to be in shape and stick to a healthy routine to feel your best. When you start your day with a hike, then end up at the beach, there’s no better feeling.

This also comes with a price, because at times the lifestyle gets too overwhelming, you can feel like you can’t take a break or a breather. It’s so important to get out of work mode from time to time and do things that reset your perspective.

Contact Info:

• Email: shaanmehta25@gmail.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shaanmehta25/
• Twitter: @NewZealandShaan

Image Credit:
Luis “Stimvlate” Quintana, Payson Wick

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