Kasi, Tam, and Stacy are also known as The Shindellas. Their music focuses on self-love, empowerment, and positivity. They are in the works of creating a platform for better representation of Black women in music.
We had the opportunity to speak with the group about music and their future in the music industry.
What does representation mean to you all?
Representation means having someone who is speaking for you, someone who speaks to who you are and what’s important to you. We are all unique and representation means we can all be seen.
When did you all realize you fell in love with music?
Stacy
I fell in love with music in church when the words and sentiment of a gospel song led me to give my life over to Christ. I was not even 10 years old but the feeling was powerful and I felt it deep in my heart.
Tam
Music was so embedded in my DNA that there wasn’t an epiphanic moment of realization for me. It just came so naturally and I knew early on that I couldn’t go a day without it in some form. My Mom’s side of the family was extremely musical and I grew up in a church where the music ministry was the best in the city. So my gift was heavily cultivated in that space. I feel like I just fell right in line. Lol
Kasi
The thing is, music WAS love in my house. It was the healer. The comfort. A lot of my family struggled to articulate their emotions (we can be very stoic on both sides) but everyone was very expressive through the music they listened to & shared. I think It was less about falling IN love with music and more about music opening me up to the love whose space we occupy, whether we acknowledge it or not. That happened to me before I could speak.
Describe the power Black femininity has in Black culture?
Black women are the backbone of Black culture. We influence everything. We hold up our men, each other, and we lift up our children, we shape culture with our creativity, resourcefulness, and resilience.
What is the importance of music with positive messaging?
When you listen to a song you are manifesting and programming your own reality. Music with positive messaging simply brings positivity into your life. You are what you musically eat.
Who are your role models for music?
Stacy
Some of my faves are Anita Baker, Mavis Staples, and Sade. The graceful longevity of their careers and they are living their best lives.
Tam
I’m inspired by so many for various reasons! Quincy Jones, Mariah Carey, Beyoncé, Anita Baker, Rihanna, Diana Ross, Aretha Franklin… the list goes on. But in finding myself and my musical identity, I’d have to say I’m becoming my favorite.
Kasi
There are so many artists I admire vocally, but for role models, I would say, Tina Turner, Dolly Parton, Audra McDonald & Louis Armstrong. Their artistry is stand-alone, but the joy with which they engage with the world is so beautiful. The way they share(d) of themselves on stage and off so authentically, and still maintain that magic that only real stars have? Inimitable.
What can listeners look forward to from you all in the future?
To falling in love with music all over again. To be inspired by originality and creativity. To have a rocking girl group of their generation to be proud of.
The Shindellas have a soon to be released album entitled, “Hits The Sticks Like Grits.” This is set to be produced by multi-Grammy nominated songwriting-production duo Louis York, also known as, Chuck Harmony & Claude Kelly.
Be sure to listen to their recent single “Money”: https://youtu.be/vnsmf1TlKGA
Also follow them on Instagram @theshindellas to keep up with these game changing women!
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