Today we’d like to introduce you to Shanna (Xhanna) Dos Santos.
Hi Shanna (Xhanna), we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Ironic but without the pandemic, I wouldn’t be where I am today. Throughout the tough times, I was pushed by a couple of friends to follow my dreams to start recording music, and I did. Within a month and a half, I recorded over 20 songs. I fell in love with going to the studio and letting my thoughts do the work. I also opened my own restaurant at the same time so I was grinding like crazy but I would still always make time for my music.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Definitely not. It took a lot of sleepless nights. I can’t even count how many times I didn’t sleep or how many times I only slept 3 hours a night. I’ve always been willing to sacrifice sleep for my music. But also, I was new to the industry. I didn’t know all the right ways to do this. I didn’t know how much money I would need to invest in myself to make that big jump that I did. But I was always willing because I always believed in myself. My father passed away when I was 17, I’m 24 now. He was my best friend and I have to say that doing anything in life without him is a big struggle of mine. He was also a singer a while back and Knowing everyday that he will never hear my songs or see how far I’m taking my Music can weigh down on me at times.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I’m an international artist. I feel like You can’t put me in a box. My father is African and my Mom is French. I was born and raised in France and moved to the USA when I was 13.
I grew up embracing all three cultures.
Music has always been the Center of our family culture. I was exposed to African, Spanish, Brazilian, Caribbean, British, classical, American music since I was born.
I’m truly a mixed kid and my music reflects All influences from Europe, Africa and America.
Afro-fusion, hiphop/rnb, pop. is what
I’m known for.
My voice, my lyrics, my music are atypical. You can’t put me in a box because I don’t belong in any of them but in all of them.
My difference is my strength and my personality. I’ve truly gone through a lot but I never sink, I always stay up.
I always want everyone to Embrace their difference, it’s what makes them and the world unique.
Before we let you go, we’ve got to ask if you have any advice for those who are just starting out?
Listen, if you are starting out, know that you need to give it you’re all. You can’t go halfway with music, you have to stay focused and dedicated. It can really cost a lot of money but make sure that you spend your money smartly. Build a team that you can trust it’s very important. And no matter how good you are, know that you can always be better so never stop practicing your voice, never stop writing, never stop grinding in any way. And most importantly, be PATIENT. Nothing happens overnight, you may not see results right away but consistency is what will get you there.
Contact Info:
- Email: iamxhanna@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamxhanna/?hl=en
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/channel/UCMPw5qccgJ4_V07Jc2oY-8A
