#crystalshawanda

  I always beam with pride when I talk about the music and accomplishments of Crystal Shawanda.  She is a powerhouse of talent.  Shawanda can sing the heck out of anything.  From well written originals to meticulously orchestrated cover tunes of Shawanda’s idols and heroes, I have listened endlessly to her voice and music. 

It was spring 2008 when I first saw “Crystal: Living The Dream” on CMT.  It was a six-part series that was documenting the start and early success of her career.  I was instantly connected to her story.  As someone who grew up watching the “Grand Ole Opry” every Saturday night, and dreamed night and day about driving down to Nashville and paying my dues, I always respected the hard work Shawanda put into her career.

In June 2008 I received the album “Dawn of a New Day”.  I opened the album and popped it into the dash of my car.  From the first chord of “Evolution” I cranked up the volume and I was hooked.  “Dawn of a New Day” had a polished sound that really impressed me.  I could tell listening to the album how much hard work, dedication, and talent were behind every single note.

The originals Shawanda had her hand in writing were raw, real, and conveyed the emotions behind them.  I am always excited when there are new versions of classic songs.  “Your Cheatin’ Heart” has been performed by everyone from Hank Williams, to LeAnn Rimes.  Shawanda’s version was original, powerful, and showcased her unique voice.

The album features a well-balanced mix of powerful ballads and toe-tapping, up-tempo songs.  “My Roots Are Showing” is one of my favorite tunes to “jam out” to.  It is a song I can throw on and sing along to, and it just seems to put me in a great mood.

“What Do I Have To Do” has a special place in my heart.  It’s words strike chords with my heart every single time I hear the song.  Almost tear jerking; I love every line of the song.  It is powerful, real, and touches a nerve.  For me, listening to this song is a way to connect with emotions that are often hard to discuss and articulate.

“Tender Side”, “I Need A Man”, “Try”, and “Dawn of a New Day” are most notably my favorites.  For each one I have a special connection or reason.  Whether it is a song to relate to, enjoy, remind me, or express myself, I quite often will seek these songs out of my musical library. 

Since “Dawn of a New Day”, Shawanda has added to her musical repertoire.  “I’ll Be Home For Christmas” has become a holiday staple for my Christmas collection, as well as Shawanda’s follow-up to “Dawn of a New Day”, “Just Like You” has produced other favorites including “Closer”, “Beautiful Day”, “Fight For Me”, and my favorite, “Down on Broadway”. 

Shawanda is currently working on new music, showcasing her new ventures in venues across North America.  I am very excited for her new work to be released.  She is active on social media.  I strongly suggest checking out her work on and off the stage.

  www.crystalshawanda.co