Today we’d like to introduce you to Shamiere
Hi Shamiere, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
Music has always been woven into the fabric of my family’s history. Scientifically, it’s proven that music stimulates growth, and I am a product of that theory. Born in Nashville, TN, as a premature baby weighing just 2 pounds and 6 ounces, my mother was deeply concerned about my health and development. The doctors, aware that my father was a musician, suggested that he record himself singing and place it in my incubator to help stimulate my growth. This early connection to music not only helped me thrive but also shaped the foundation of my passion. My father, a retired local singer, songwriter, and producer, was a key influence, I knew early on that it was my passion. Watching my father in studio sessions, performances, and auditions inspired me to pursue my own creative path. I started singing at family gatherings, school talent shows, and even auditioned for shows like X-Factor and American Idol. Additionally, I performed in numerous musical plays, including with BG on Stage, which is dedicated to bringing educational experiences in the arts and quality theatrical productions to students in Bowling Green, KY.
While in high school, I was heavily involved in choir and performed in several musical plays. Despite feeling a sense of isolation at times, I found my connection to the world through music. My passion led me to Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU), where I earned a degree in Music Business and a minor in Public Relations. During my time there, I learned the business side of the industry, interning at Equal Access, Mojo Music and Media, and 14 Inch Fringe, gaining hands-on experience in digital marketing, sync licensing, and artist development. I also worked at The Basement East, a popular music venue in Nashville, TN for concerts and performances, which further exposed me to the live music scene and event logistics.
One of my biggest breakthroughs came when I was nominated for the Academy of Country Music’s 2022 rising leaders cohort, which focused on expanding Country Music to underrepresented audiences. I also played a role in the launch of the OnRamp program, which supports young Black creatives in Nashville’s music community.
While I’ve been fortunate to gain invaluable exposure and connections, I quickly realized that my personal artistry hadn’t yet been fully explored. Financially supporting myself in the music industry has been challenging, but I decided to take control. In 2022, I started working as a full-time teacher, using my salary to fund my independent music career. From studio time to video shoots, live performances to merch tables, I’ve self-financed every aspect of my artistry, including the production of my music video “Let Go,” which now has over 57K views on YouTube. I also just recently finished a video shoot for a new song that I’ll be dropping next summer, in addition to releasing a full project, so I’m super excited about that!
My ultimate goal is to become a full-time artist, performing and touring across the U.S. while continuing to create music that connects with women navigating the complexities of life. I’m also committed to launching a woman-led organization dedicated to empowering women in the music industry.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Juggling life as a full-time substitute teacher and an independent artist is a wild ride, and let me tell you, it’s not all sunshine and rainbows. Every day, I pour my heart into teaching Lifetime Wellness to 211 students. It’s fulfilling, but man, it’s exhausting. By the time I’m done shaping young minds, I have to find the energy to dive into my music. It’s a struggle to switch gears, especially after a long day of planning lessons and managing classrooms.
And then there’s the money side of things. I’ve sunk thousands into my music—studio time, production, and music videos that reflect my vision. Each dollar feels like a piece of my soul, but when you’re an independent artist, you’re funding your dreams solo. Some days, I wonder if I’m stretching myself too thin, trying to keep my head above water while balancing my teaching job with my passion for music.
I’ve been on the grind, applying music jobs, hoping to land something that allows me to focus on my art full-time. But the reality is harsh. It makes you question your worth and your place in this game.
Collaboration is another tricky beast. I’ve learned the hard way that it’s vital to connect with creatives who share the same vibe. We’ve got to lift each other up, not just take from each other. It’s all about matching energy—showing up ready to work and keeping our word. I want to surround myself with people who genuinely care about our collective success.
Creating consistent content is a whole other challenge. I want to connect with my followers and build a community that feels like family, but finding the time and inspiration to do that while managing my teaching gig can be overwhelming. Every post or story is a chance to share my journey, but it takes serious dedication to keep that engagement alive.
Through all these ups and downs, I see this journey as God showing me a reflection of who I used to be and how far I’ve come. A lot of these experiences are rooted in dealing with the echoes of my past self. As I’ve grown into the woman I am today, I’ve realized I need to distance myself from people and creatives who remind me of that old version of me. I’m ready to move forward and embrace the best version of my future self. It’s not about judging anyone; it’s about prioritizing my growth and surrounding myself with the right vibes.
At the end of the day, I’m fiercely committed to uplifting others, especially women in music who often go unnoticed. I want to build a woman-led collective that supports female artists in genres like R&B, rock, and country—spaces where we need more representation. I know firsthand how hard it is to break through, and I want to be a part of changing that narrative by providing mentorship, artist development, and business services to help others thrive in their creative pursuits.
This journey may be tough, but every challenge fuels my fire. I’m not just chasing success for myself; I’m doing it for every woman who’s ever felt sidelined. I want to create a space where we all rise together and prove that our voices matter. Through my music and this initiative, I aim to leave a lasting legacy that uplifts and supports the next generation of women in music.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I envision two pathways to success for myself: one is to teach music and entertainment, blending my passion for education with my love for the arts; the other is to continue my journey as a part-time independent singer, songwriter, and aspiring musician, with the goal of becoming a paid full-time artist. In the classroom, I’m known as Ms. Allen, but in the music world, I go by Shamiere—my stage name. As a rising leader, my dream is to use my music as the foundation for building my own company and empowering others.
This past year has been filled with incredible confirmations from God that I’m on the right path. From studio time to video shoots, live performances to merch tables, I’ve self-financed every aspect of my artistry, including the production of my music video “Let Go,” which now has over 57K views on YouTube. I also just recently finished a video shoot for a new song that I’ll be dropping next summer, in addition to releasing a full project, so I’m super excited about that! Celebrating the one-year release anniversary of “Let Go” in early September of this year, is a milestone that opened doors for me, including booking my first music festival at Attahville and performing at my first Afrobeat festival—an unforgettable experience. I was thrilled to be featured on GrammyU’s Monthly Member Playlist in September, and I’ve connected with amazing artists along the way. Winning my first writers’ round in Nashville further solidified my belief that I was born to do music. Now, my focus is on staying true to myself as an artist while building connections that go beyond music.
Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
I’ve had so many people who’ve played a big role in my journey, and I’m forever grateful. Beverly Keel, who’s the Dean of the College of Media and Entertainment at MTSU, was my professor and mentor. She saw the potential in me early on and really changed my life when she connected me with GrammyU. It was a dream come true! Ever since, she’s been in my corner, helping me get into spaces I never thought I’d be in as a young black creative. She even nominated me for the Academy of Country Music’s 2022 Rising Leader Cohort and helped me get my first industry job. Beverly is all about uplifting underrepresented voices, and I have so much respect for her leadership.
Then there’s Jeffrey Shibley, my go-to guy for all my music video content. He’s been my partner in bringing my vision to life, especially with my video for “Let Go,” which hit 57k views on YouTube. He’s a creative genius, and we’ve got more visuals coming that I can’t wait to share!
Stephen Miller, my guitarist and longtime friend, is another MVP. He’s my right-hand man at shows, whether he’s playing solo or with his band. He always shows up and makes every performance special. His support means the world to me.
When it comes to family, my stepmom and my father have been my biggest supporters at every show. They’ve held down my merch table so I can focus on my performances and have even catered for my shoots. My father, always lending a hand, whether it’s running errands or crafting things for me, like the hat he designed for my “It’s My Birthday” video. He’s my superhero—always showing up and going above and beyond.
My mom is my rock but also keeps it real with me. She doesn’t sugarcoat anything, and I love her for it. She’s taught me the value of tough love and entrepreneurship, and those lessons continue to guide me.
My brother Phillip is the rap guru in the family. We’re both huge Drake fans, and our conversations are always about how to navigate the industry and improve ourselves. He’s my reminder to stay grounded, and we’ve got something cooking musically that I’m excited to share soon.
My friends Kree Kelly and Quan Wilson have been my biggest cheerleaders. We bonded through dance, and they’ve been at every show and video shoot, always lifting me up. Whenever they’re around, I’m instantly in my zone. They’ve kept me focused, grounded, and confident through it all.
Lastly, my fans and supporters are the heartbeat of my journey, constantly inspiring me to reach new heights and stay true to my vision keeps me motivated and grateful every day.
These people have all been essential in my journey, and I couldn’t do it without them!”
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shamierexo/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Shamierexo
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@shamierexo
- Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/shamierexo
Kelby Anderson
Academy of Country Music (ACM) Team
Robert Robbins
