Shay Leonia
Englewood, New Jersey, United States | Established. Jan 01, 2006
Music
Press
Shay Leonia is an R&B musician whose style is reminiscent of Lauren Hill. Her lyrics pay homage to every day struggles. She has a song called “Windows” featuring Treach from Naughty By Nature that speaks frankly about barricades life puts in front of us. Her music salvages the flavor of old school Hip Hop; letting listeners know that there is still viability to music with a message.
It is certainly enjoyable to listen to a strong female vocalist that pledges her fans substance. Shay’s songs remind us that there are still people in the music industry that paint pictures of real, tangible emotion. Her music takes me to a place in New York, it is hot, and the cap is broken off of the fire hydrant. People are walking past, taking time to listen to the day as it unfolds. It is within the rhythm of that day that Shay Leonia’s music lies. - AvenuesFM
Shay Leonia is not only a remarkable talent but also a remarkable person. I received Shays info from a good friend whom I recently hired to perform at my Annual Innovators of Change Screening and Awards Events at the J. Walter Thompson New York offices. From beginning to end, Shay was professional and even flexible when we had to reschedule due this horrid winter. Shay even went the extra step to invite me to one her rehearsals with her fun loving band mates as they prepared for my show. If you're looking artist who is not a diva but will give you a show like some of our great divas of our time then hire her today. Not only will guests have a time they will never forget but they will screaming Oh Shay! - Keni Thacker (JWT)
Singer Shay Leonia was the next one to step up to the mic. Shay performed two songs off of her album that is set to be released in early 2015, including her hit first single, “It’s Over”. Assisted by Danielle Martin on vocals and Simone on beatbox, Shay then stole the show with her musical trip down memory lane, performing 90s hits like “Steelo” by 702 and “Down” by Brandy. - Mute Magazine
Discography
Still working on that hot first release.
Photos
Bio
Where many fans have voiced their longing for a return to great R&B music, Shay Leonia has emerged. Recognized by a quintessential 1980's hairstyle and funky lipstick color, Shay is obviously not concerned with assimilating to the traditional outline of an R&B artist, stylistically or musically. While her songs do implore the listener to delve into their own experiences with love and life, they invoke a warm familiarity of a time when music made people feel more than surface-level lyricism.
Inspired by an eclectic array of greats from Michael and Janet Jackson to Stevie Wonder, George Michael, Led Zeppelin and even Barbra Streisand, Shay's music manages to pay homage to her predecessors without sounding dated. Initially pursuing a career as a dancer, Shay received a scholarship to attend The American Musical and Dramatic Academy in New York City. As she studied to become a "triple threat" in the world of musical theater, she found herself in a unique predicament, leading her to sing on the subway trains for money. "I would sing my favorite SWV songs, and sometimes people would join in and sing along." With the guidance of an acquaintance that believed in her abilities, Shay would discover her calling to create music for people to connect with.
While Shay has nailed down her own unique sound as an artist, she also excels at writing for other artists. "I always love learning from other people's creative processes," says the New Jersey native. "I've worked with so many talented individuals, but being in writing sessions with DJ Marley Marl and Mad Skillz really made me sharpen my pen-game." In between writing sessions, Shay performs with her band throughout New York City, showing off her eclectic taste in the music that has shaped her sound.
Shay is currently working on her debut album while putting finishing touches on several other projects she is tied to. The MUTE Magazine and Slyde App featured artist maintains a driving work ethic, dedicated to giving fans the kind of music that lets them know they aren't alone.
"Don't you understand the way you are? If you're not the first to change, then neither will the stars." - Shay Leonia
Band Members
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