Today we’d like to introduce you to Shelby Ballenger.
Hi Shelby, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I’ve been singing since I was able to talk. I’ve always loved it. However, being an athlete from an early age, I never really had the opportunity to explore music before my senior year of high school. Once I got my first car, I started driving to open mic nights and fell in love with the stage. I started playing guitar at age 18. I’m now 31 and pursue music full-time. I’ve been in the business for 6 years now, and I can’t imagine doing anything else. Throwing songwriting into the mix has just deepened my love for lyrics and the meaning behind an artists music. I truly love what I do for a living.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
I am my own social media ambassador, booking agent, band leader, roadie, and stylist. Sometimes it can get rough doing everything on your own. But I do take pride in the fact that I handle everything. I get a say in all my musical journeys. The biggest struggle I have is finding opportunities to play bigger stages/festivals. Overall, it’s been a “steady” road. I’ve always been taught that I can do anything I want in life as long as I work hard and stay dedicated. I’ve done both of those things and now my full-time job entails singing songs I wrote and entertaining country music lovers.
Thanks – so, what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I specialize in connecting with people through true-to-self lyrics. Everything I’ve written has come from real-life experiences that a lot of us can relate to. I’m most proud of my newest single, “Colors.” It was my first song to ever make a radio chart, and it climbed 20 spots in its time on the charts. I wrote that song out of true heartbreak, and something absolutely beautiful emerged from it. I think what sets me apart from other artists is the tone of my voice. I have a sound that is very easy to listen to. Not too harsh or too loud; it’s just “right in the pocket.”
What’s next?
My future is looking bright. In 2023 I will be opening for Josh Abbott, the Squeezebox Bandits, Casey Donahew and headlining Southern Junction Dance Hall for my 4th time now. I also have a new single coming out July 2023 that was recorded in Martina McBride’s studio in Nashville with my full band. Our video will be featured in NYC Times Square billboard alley later this year. My motto is “ya gotta hustle to be heard.” There’s no stopping the Shelby Ballenger Music train.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://indd.adobe.com/view/9d76d09a-6fc2-47b2-9c98-ef75a1b683c0
- Instagram: Instagram.com/shelbyballengermusic
- Facebook: Facebook.com/shelbyballengermusic
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@shelbyballengermusic203
- Other: https://open.spotify.com/user/22arzshlanqj6vv3na32gt62y?si=Y5s4UQ1uQNuz5E15RZ0m_g
Image Credits
Colton Newkirk Photography
Kristen Nicole Photography
