Meet Sh3lter

We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Sh3lter a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Sh3lter, so great to have you with us and we want to jump right into a really important question. In recent years, it’s become so clear that we’re living through a time where so many folks are lacking self-confidence and self-esteem. So, we’d love to hear about your journey and how you developed your self-confidence and self-esteem.

I would say the most effective way for me to develop my confidence was the people around me, especially my manager. We often have conversations about various topics and experiences along my journey. Essentially, understanding my surroundings and focusing on the things that make me stand out has been crucial.

Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?

sh3lter is a dynamic and soulful artist hailing from Ghana, My journey into music has been a profound blend of personal discovery and cultural exploration. It was through recognizing my musical talent that I truly began to understand how the experiences and challenges I’ve faced have shaped both my identity and my craft. Growing up in Ghana, I was immersed in a rich tapestry of musical traditions. Whether it was the soulful rhythms of highlife, the spiritual depth of gospel, or the vibrant pulse of traditional African music. These sounds became my foundation, guiding my creative expression and fueling my passion for music.

At its core, Afro-soul with a Ghanaian touch blends the complex rhythms and rich harmonies of Ghanaian musical traditions—such as the percussive patterns of Adowa, Ewe drum ensembles, or the infectious grooves of highlife—with the smooth, emotive qualities of soul. The sound often features layered, syncopated drum beats that evoke the heartbeat of everyday life in Ghana, while the melodies and vocal delivery draw deeply from the soul, expressing vulnerability, love, longing, and resilience.

The instrumentation typically includes a mix of traditional African instruments like the xylophone, balafon, and talking drum, alongside modern instruments like electric guitars, bass, and keyboards. The harmonic structure may also incorporate bluesy scales, call-and-response vocals, and melismatic singing, common in soul and gospel music. These elements are seamlessly woven together, creating a sound that is both grounded in Ghanaian culture and expansive in its emotional range.

If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?

Looking back on my journey, three qualities and areas of knowledge have profoundly shaped my path: authenticity, resilience, and a collaborative spirit. These elements have not only defined my growth as an artist but have also served as pillars of strength and creativity, helping me navigate the challenges and opportunities that come with pursuing a dream. For those starting out, I believe developing these traits can provide a strong foundation for success, regardless of the field they choose.

Authenticity in Expression
One of the most impactful qualities on my journey has been the commitment to authenticity. Staying true to my identity, particularly my Ewe heritage, has allowed me to create work that resonates deeply with my audience. Music, for me, is not just a form of expression but a way to connect with others through cultural stories and shared experiences. Authenticity gives art a soul, making it relatable and memorable.

For those early in their journey, embracing authenticity begins with self-awareness. Take the time to understand your roots, your unique perspective, and what sets you apart. Dive deep into your cultural heritage, personal experiences, and values. These elements are not just details of your identity—they are the raw materials for creating something original and meaningful.

Resilience and Adaptability
No meaningful journey is without challenges, and resilience has been a cornerstone of my growth. As an African woman, I’ve faced societal expectations and limitations, particularly during my formative years. Music became my refuge and my way of exploring the world beyond the boundaries imposed on me. Overcoming these challenges required not just strength but also adaptability—the willingness to learn, unlearn, and evolve.

For beginners, resilience is about building the capacity to keep moving forward despite setbacks. Celebrate small victories to sustain your motivation, and treat challenges as opportunities to grow. Surround yourself with people who uplift and inspire you, and remember that failure is not the end—it’s a step toward improvement. Flexibility is equally important; be open to trying new methods or approaches, as the landscape of any field is ever-changing.

The Power of Collaboration
Finally, the collaborative spirit has been instrumental in my journey. Working with other artists, such as Bisa has expanded my creative horizons and introduced me to audiences I might not have reached alone. Collaboration is not just about combining skills; it’s about sharing perspectives and creating something greater than the sum of its parts.

For those just beginning, collaboration starts with finding like-minded individuals who share your passion and vision. Build relationships with peers and mentors who inspire you, and approach collaboration with an open mind and a willingness to listen. Respect the contributions of others and value the lessons learned from working together. In collaboration, you don’t just create—you grow.

Advice for the Journey
To anyone starting out, I would emphasize the importance of balance. Be authentic, but adaptable. Pursue independence, but embrace collaboration. Most importantly, remember to enjoy the process. Success is not a single destination but a series of moments, lessons, and growth along the way. Stay curious, stay persistent, and trust in your unique voice—it is your greatest asset.

By cultivating these qualities, you can build a journey that is not only fulfilling but also deeply impactful to those around you. The road may not always be easy, but it will always be worth it.

Alright, so before we go we want to ask you to take a moment to reflect and share what you think you would do if you somehow knew you only had a decade of life left?

Most of my challenges revolve around investment, particularly securing the funds needed to fully express my craft and promote it for the world to see.

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