Shalaine Stebner: "Brenda" (Song Review / Q&A)
I recently had the pleasure of listening to Shalaine Stebner's latest release, 'Brenda,' and I must say, I was taken in from the start. I am always on the lookout for new artists to add to my playlist, and Shalaine is definitely one to watch. 'Brenda' is a powerful and emotional song that tells the story of leaving a toxic person behind. From the introduction, you are whisked away by old-school twang guitars and the classic walking bass lines of country’s origins.
Shalaine's vocals are raw and soulful, and they perfectly convey the pain and strength of someone who's finally had enough. The lyrics are relatable and paint a vivid picture of the toxic relationship, making it easy to connect with the song on a personal level. Not only is the song beautifully written, but the production offers clarity and originality. The instrumentation, including the guitar and harmonies, adds a traditional country feel to the song, while still sounding fresh and modern with bright accents keeping you reeled in. Shalaine's voice shines through with a consistent melody that doesn’t leave you guessing, all while conveying such a story of leaving in detail. What I appreciate most about 'Brenda' is the message it carries. It's a reminder that sometimes the best thing we can do for ourselves is to walk away from toxic people, no matter how much it may hurt.
Shalaine delivers this message with authenticity and vulnerability, making it all the more impactful. I have no doubt that 'Brenda' will resonate with many listeners. As an upcoming country artist, Shalaine Stebner is making a name for herself with this traditional feel and stellar vocals, almost reminding me of artists such as Miranda Lambert or The Chicks. If you’re a fan of great country music with strong female leads, I highly recommend giving 'Brenda' a listen and keeping an eye on Shalaine's future releases!
Q&A
What is your creative process like when writing?
Every time I write is a little bit different! Sometimes the song flows so perfectly and so effortlessly, it almost seems like it was a gift from somewhere else. Other times I have to sit with it for a bit to truly figure out what my soul is trying to say. I have a folder full of voice memos I recorded from when I was driving, I have a notebook in my holiday trailer so that when I am in the middle of nowhere surrounded by the purest views imaginable, I am always ready when inspired! Sometimes the songs that I write are just for me though. I do definitely know that not every song that I write will be a hit, or will even make it past me playing it for my soul. Sometimes it makes it to facebook, but doesn't reach the final cut when it comes time to record. I try not to rewrite the songs by myself though. When I write a song, I am feeling a specific way at a certain time, so to try to go back and capture that feeling again to pull more out, that is impossible. These words are a direct window into my souls desires, and I'd love to share them with you all!
What is your favourite venue to play at and why?
If ever given the opportunity, I will choose the dive bars, the hall dances in the middle of nowhere, the places that are off the beaten path! Those places hold the purest, loyal, most honest people, and those are the ones I want on my team!
Who are your influences or inspirations in music and how have they impacted your career?
Oh my goodness, belting out Martina McBride and Celine Dion when I was 7, fan-girling the harmonies and synchronized moves of BSB and N*SYNC, dreaming of being a 4th member of The Chicks, practising Miranda Lamberts swagger and general attitude, seeing small town farm girl Carrie Underwood perform for the first time on American Idol, I could talk forever on how I have been influenced by so many musicians in so many genres, and not just country. Genre bending has become the norm, and I think what I have learned from the most recent releases, is that there is no specific lane that you HAVE to be in. Music is beautiful and should be celebrated for exactly what it is.
What song (if any) by another artist do you wish you had written?
Strawberry Wine by Deana Carter is always a favourite of mine! When you hear a song and it takes you back to a specific moment in you life...when you can see, hear, smell exactly what was going on when you were listening to that song...those are the good ones! Beaches of Cheyenne by Garth Brooks, Run by George Strait, Heads Carolina by Jo Dee Messina, I wish I could have wrote them all!
What is your go-to karaoke song?
Oooooh Karaoke! Many a night was spent staring at the screen, belting out tunes! When God Fearin Women Get The Blues has to be my fave fast song, but the song that tops the charts for me would be Black Velvet by Alanah Myles. The runs, the build up, the feeling, it is just next level for me!
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