Interview: Courtney Shilo

What sparked your interest in pursuing a career in music initially? Was there a specific moment or experience that fueled your passion?


What sparked my career in music was my admiration for the R&B singers I grew up with like Destiny’s Child, Mariah Carey, Aaliyah. Growing up listening to them inspired me to want to learn how to sing which in turn inspired me to want to pursue it as a career.

Could you characterize your musical style and the genre(s) you associate with? Are there specific artists or musicians who have played a significant role in shaping your sound?


I would characterize my musical style as traditional R&B. I’m inspired by the R&B singers from the 90s and 2000s. I really enjoyed the neo-soul era, so I try to draw inspiration from there.

Share with us the inspiration behind your most recent single. What triggered the creative process for this specific piece?


My latest single is a song called “Desire” was inspired by my longing to experience real love. I know a lot of people in this generation that feel shame for expressing their desire for love and a relationship, so I wanted to be vulnerable and express that in my own way.

In what way do you anticipate your latest song resonating with your existing fan base and attracting new listeners? What message or emotions do you aim for listeners to glean from the song?


I expect people to resonate with the message of yearning for love. Even though its not something a lot of people want to admit out loud, it is a message that resonates for many. I hope people can tap into it and understand that they are not alone.

How does this track contribute to the overarching narrative or theme of your upcoming album or project?


“Desire” is the last track from my EP, “Do Not Disturb”. The overall premise of this project is self reflecting on a breakup. The project starts off with my song “Silence”, which is about the beginning of a breakup, and realizing I may have said some things that contributed to it being over. From there I go through many emotions involved with the dissolution of a relationship. The last track desire ties everything together, by me expressing that even though that relationship may not have worked out, I still have an innate desire to experience true love.

Maintaining creativity and motivation can be challenging. Do you have any rituals or habits that you find instrumental in sustaining your artistic drive?


I try to find time to set aside to write and record, even though I do work a 9-5. I challenge myself to find time to work on at least 1-2 songs a week.

Do you have any upcoming projects or releases that you’re particularly enthusiastic about? Can you offer any teasers or details?


After releasing a few Ep’s, I will finally be releasing my first feature length album in 2024. I’m super excited about this project as I am working with a few new producers, but also get to work with some familiar people from my past as well. I’m excited for people to finally get a full body of work from me.

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