By: Jacob Elyachar, jakes-take.com
It is a pleasure to welcome singer, dancer, and producer Shyra Sanchez to Jake’s Take.
In addition to her artistry, she also started the STAR Academy. The STAR Academy help young artists develop their passions to succeed in fashion, film, TV, and the pageant world. She also co-founded ShyFit, a line of sportswear and lifestyle products for the next generation.
In this edition of A Conversation, Shyra opened up about the track, described her musical styling, and shared the STAR Academy’s origin story.
Jacob Elyachar: When did you get interested in performing?
Shyra Sanchez: I became interested in performing at the age of two. I’ve always visualized performing on stage, singing to big audiences, and touring the world.
Jacob Elyachar: How did that passion evolve into the desire of pursuing a career in the entertainment industry?
Shyra Sanchez: The desire was always there. The passion pushed me to work hard and be successful. Winning talent shows and pageants when I was younger gave me the confidence and faith to know I could achieve anything.
Jacob Elyachar: To commemorate WorldPride, you released a new anthem called: “Universal Love.” Could you describe the song to my readers?
Shyra Sanchez: “Universal Love” is simple. It is about being authentic, accepting, and accepted.
Jacob Elyachar: A lot of producers have remixed the single. What did it mean to have these music makers remix “Universal Love”?
Shyra Sanchez: It was an honor to have so many well established DJs believe in the project and support the message and movement.
Jacob Elyachar: What have been some of the challenges that you faced throughout your career? How did you overcome those obstacles?
Shyra Sanchez: I guess my challenges have been similar to many other artists. I’ve dealt with people not believing in my talent and trying to put me down. I feel that I’ve always been unique in the music industry, and I try to avoid being put in a box. Of course, from a commercial perspective, that’s all people want to do – give you a category and constrain you to a particular market. I want to make music that’s universal and transcends typical definitions. I call my music MESH Music. Metal-Evolution-Soul-Hip-hop! I overcame my obstacles by being very goal-oriented. When you set a goal and establish a way to achieve that goal, it becomes much easier to block out all the naysayers and critics. I also learned how important it is to have positive, uplifting people around you. I realized that people who put others down are typically jealous and fearful of their failures. It’s essential to develop ways of quieting that harmful noise.
Shyra Sanchez: I guess my challenges have been similar to many other artists. I’ve dealt with people not believing in my talent and trying to put me down. I feel that I’ve always been unique in the music industry, and I try to avoid being put in a box. Of course, from a commercial perspective, that’s all people want to do – give you a category and constrain you to a particular market. I want to make music that’s universal and transcends typical definitions. I call my music MESH Music. Metal-Evolution-Soul-Hip-hop! I overcame my obstacles by being very goal-oriented. When you set a goal and establish a way to achieve that goal, it becomes much easier to block out all the naysayers and critics. I also learned how important it is to have positive, uplifting people around you. I’ve realized that people who put others down are typically jealous and fearful of their failures. It’s essential to develop ways of quieting that harmful noise.
Jacob Elyachar: Three years ago, you launched the STAR Academy to help up-and-coming artists. Could you describe the STAR Academy to my readers and how does it stand out against other programs geared towards helping young performers?
Shyra Sanchez: When developing STAR Talent Academy, (Strategic Training in Academics = Results), I wanted upcoming artists to know what it takes to be a star. It’s not fairy dust or luck. It’s hard work, passion, determination, education, and never taking no for an answer. The STAR Talent Academy stands out because of our results and track record. Through working with other industry professionals and providing a strong academic foundation, we provide the knowledge necessary to be successful in the entertainment industry.
Jacob Elyachar: If you had the opportunity to meet with singer-songwriters who want to pursue a career in the music industry, what advice would you share with them?
Shyra Sanchez: Never stop singing, never stop writing, and never stop perfecting your craft. No matter how discouraged you get and how many “no’s” you hear. Eventually, you will hear, yes. Always believe in what you are producing – if you don’t, no one else will.
For more information about Shyra, visit her website!
You can also connect with Shyra Sanchez on social media. Visit her Facebook, Instagram, Twitter & YouTube channels.
