MusicNT presents: Shana Ray
Palmerston based singer songwriter and Saltwater Diva Shana Ray recently performed to a crowd of 2000 music lovers at Bush Bands Bash. Music NT caught up with Ray to find out more about her experience.
Tell us about your experience with Saltwater and Desert Divas?
I have been part of the Desert Divas and Saltwater Divas programs since 2012. I had sent an email through to Music NT asking if I could participate in the Desert Divas program, as at the time it was really only for the girls situated in Alice Springs. Then the Saltwater Divas program was born for the Darwin girls. It was the best way for me to open up my career as an artist.
Tell us about your Bush Bands experience?
I loved it so much! It was a week of intense training by some of Australia’s top music industry professionals at the Ross River Resort in Alice Springs. We practiced all day, everyday to prepare us for the Bush Bands Bash Concert. The Bush Bands Bash was full of Indigenous talent from some of Australia’s most remote communities. I am so lucky to have connected with some very important names in the music industry and I’ve learnt so much from my experience.
Who are your musical inï¬uences?
One of my favorite artists is Amy Winehouse, her lyrics are so honest and emotional.
What instruments do you play?
Acoustic guitar.
Would you recommend the Bush Bands and Desert Divas programs to others to get involved in?
Yes! I would definitely recommend them – I cannot say it enough! The programs are amazing and you get so much help and support from everyone involved. Since participating in these programs, so many pathways have opened up for me and my confidence has grown.
What's the plan now?
To book some gigs around Darwin before recording and releasing my own album!
INFO facebook.com/shanaraysinger | soundcloud.com/shannencubis
