Shaynah grew up surrounded by the power of music. With two musicians for parents, she began experimenting at an early age, and quickly found her own unique sound of soulful R&B. Between focusing on her own music, working in production for other artists, and writing songs for musicals, she dipped a toe into every area of the industry and found creative fulfilment throughout. With her background, it is no surprise that music is a second language for Shaynah. She processes emotions and experiences through melodies and lyrics, and is able to create a beautiful community of like-minded individuals who relate to her music. From joy and excitement to confusion to trauma, she covers it all and ignites a powerful vulnerability in all who listen.
Ahead of her highly anticipated third EP, Naked, which is also the final part of her complete album, Chapter 22, Shaynah has released a lead single. Titled “Fair Play”, she worked with Grammy-winning singer-songwriter Jackie’s Boy to create a captivating portrayal of complicated emotional dynamics between two lovers. Their vocals layer on top of one another, creating a natural and emotive conversation between the two — both lyrically and sonically. With smooth, soulful R&B grooves and profound lyrics, the track is infectious, vulnerable, and above all, thought-provoking.
Shaynah explains, “I’ve come to realise that when I truly like someone, it becomes challenging for me to express interest or flirt. It seems that when I don’t invest much emotionally or know it won’t progress further, it’s easier for me to initiate contact and silently hope for a positive connection. However, when I genuinely care about someone, I become consumed by overthinking every word, action, appearance, and how I’m perceived. This realisation prompted me to question the dynamics. Shouldn’t it be the opposite? ‘Fair Play’ reflects my experiences with making initial contact with someone I’m deeply drawn to. It’s a playful exploration of whether we’ll wait for the other to make a move, break the ice, or engage in a game of emotional chess to present ourselves in a better light.”
Stream “Fair Play”…