INTERVIEW
Bronte Evans | 01/04/2025
In a world where vulnerability often meets resistance, SHAB stands out as a beacon of hope and inspiration. With a rapidly growing fanbase, she has captivated listeners with her transparent storytelling and powerful music, which seamlessly blends uplifting dance tracks with exquisite ballads. As we delve into SHAB's life, we discover a narrative woven from the threads of resolve, femininity and the complexities of being a refugee.
Reflecting on her currently ongoing radio & TV promotional tour of the U.S., SHAB shares "We have got another five weeks on tour to go, leaving tomorrow on Week Four for the Carolinas and Savannah. We already toured through all of Texas and Florida and have been getting excellent response from radio decialsionmakers. Many of these radio programmers seem to already want to start playing ‘Lipstick’ on the radio here -- and even before we have started to come out the track -- which feels incredible.”
“But the tour’s been arduous, I’m not gonna lie: the two month effort is one of the hardest things I've done,” she confided. “It’s been a hustle daily, but not in the sense of being someone other than who you are. Rather, when meeting these programmers, you have to be both authentic but Switched On at the same time. But it’s been so rewarding and I feel so blessed to meet these Program Directors so that they get to know my story."
The connection between SHAB and her fans is palpable, a bond forged through the shared experience of music that resonates deeply. "When I see them sing and dance to something that comes from the depths of my soul, it’s incredibly validating," she reveals. "Music is such a powerful medium for connection, and I’m grateful for every moment I share with my fans. And to my Shab Squad, I have so many surprises in store for them. Come on journey with me I will show you some things!”
As the conversation unfolds, SHAB opens up about her childhood experiences as a refugee, shedding light on the trauma that has shaped her perspective. "I was without my Mom for four to five years from the time when I was eight years old," she recalls. "One can learn so much from your Mother in those years, so I feel like I missed out on so much time with my family. But when we were together, we were inseparable and always had so much fun together. And made up for lost time when I finally arrived in the U.S.”
Shab continued “I can only think about my eight year-old son and can’t imagine having to send him away to boarding school at that age for the same period. I think I’m reliving my childhood through my kids now, wanting to give him all of me and the love I didn’t get to experience during those four and a half years when I was in Germany. I think that’s what made me so independent from a very young age."
SHAB’s journey serves as a testament to the power of resilience, and her music stands as a reminder that our struggles can shape us into who we are meant to be. As she continues to share her story through her art, there’s no doubt that SHAB will inspire countless others to embrace their own journeys, no matter how challenging they may be. With every beat, lyric, and dance track, she uplifts those around her, reminding us all that strength can be found in vulnerability.
The emotional depth of SHAB's experiences is mirrored in her music, where themes of empowerment, freedom and womanhood run strong. In an intimate conversation, SHAB opened up about her tumultuous journey, one marked by struggles, resilience, and the transformative power of mentorship.
Corset, By Cookie H. Tights, Calzedonia. Heels, Stylists own.
"That’s why I understand people the way I do," she explains, reflecting on her formative years. "During first grade, I had two sets of shoes but remember my school shoes falling apart. I didn’t want to tell my Mom, as I knew that we didn’t have a lot of money. So the next day, I wore my second pair of shoes. I remember getting kicked out on that day by the principal, who made fun of me in front of everyone and said, 'You’re disgraceful; you shouldn’t be coming to school like this.' I had to walk three miles daily in the sun and on paved roads. I was crying, walking alone, and I remember looking up and thinking, 'Is this life, God?’ I got on my knees in the middle of nothingness and just bawling out loud," she recalls, reflecting on a pivotal moment in her life.
The memory of being sent home from school for not having the right shoes still stings. "I didn't want to tell my Mother because we had little money," but she confided to her mother, explaining why she felt ashamed. Yet her mother’s fierce advocacy — kicking open the principal's door --became a defining moment of solidarity and strength.
SHAB attributes much of her resilience to the people who uplifted her during challenging times. "What you remember is the fantastic people, those who inspired me -- including one teacher in particular," she shares. This teacher offered daily hope and encouragement, proving that a single positive influence can change the course of a young person's life. "In part due to that teacher, I am the way I am," SHAB reflects, underscoring the importance of selflessness and support.
Her journey to the United States was not just a geographical shift but a profound transformation. "I wasn't lucky enough to have already been born here in the States and to be able to sing from when I was 10 years old... For me, that age was all about trying to help my family survive and make ends meet." Arriving in the U.S. brought new challenges; she immersed herself in work and learning English while striving to support her family. It wasn’t until the age of thirty that she found a moment of introspection, asking herself what she truly wanted.
Empathy and kindness radiate from SHAB, who is known for her selfless nature. However, she emphasizes the necessity of setting boundaries. "I'm just learning to give some back to me too," she admits, recognizing the importance of self-care. Growing up in a crowded household of 13, where privacy was scarce, SHAB learned the hard way that boundaries are essential for well-being. "I realized I had to start learning limits for my well-being," she explains.
SHAB's artistry is a testament to her generous spirit, using music as a platform to inspire and uplift others. She addresses the complexities of womanhood within societal constraints, advocating for a sisterhood of support and empowerment. "It has been a blessing to feel supported having my partner Rob by my side as my Number One Supporter," she shares, highlighting the strength of her relationship. Yet she acknowledges the ongoing struggle for women's freedom and independence, stating emphatically, "We're nowhere, not anywhere, near free."
Through her journey, SHAB embodies resilience, compassion and the power of community. Her story serves as a reminder that while the road may be fraught with challenges, the support of mentors and the establishment of healthy boundaries can lead to profound personal growth and empowerment. As she continues to create and inspire through her music, SHAB remains committed to uplifting others, ensuring that her journey resonates far beyond her own experiences.
In today's world, where social media often blurs the lines of reality, the power of storytelling has never been more crucial. Music, a universal language, serves as a vital connector of emotions and cultural experiences. SHAB, an inspiring artist, embodies this connection through her music, weaving her personal narrative into every note.
Blazer, APAR. Bodysuit, Stylists own.
Coat, APAR. Heels, Steve Madden.
"Releasing *One Suitcase* has been such a great journey," SHAB shares. "I worked hard for it. I didn’t give up. So many times I thought, 'I don’t want to do this. I can’t do this.' I've wanted to give up many times, but I kept pushing through because I’m a fighter. I’ll give up when I die. If I put my energy in, it’s in God’s hands. If God wants it, it will happen the way God plans. It’s not about showing off; it’s about inspiring someone. I want women to feel good in their skin."
*One Suitcase* is a harmonious blend of danceable tracks and heartfelt ballads. Intrigued by the influences shaping her unique sound, we asked SHAB to elaborate. "I always try to sprinkle in things I’ve been inspired by, like my Latin vibes. I wanted it to encompass everywhere I’ve traveled and all the different music I’ve heard that inspired me. It’s taken me a while to get used to singing my songs live and acoustically; it makes me choke up because they’re so deeply rooted in me. It just cuts through my heart, and I start tearing up."
The creative process can be both exhilarating and daunting, often walking the tightrope between inspiration and expectation. SHAB candidly shared her struggles with writer’s block and the pressure that accompanies artistic expression. "I get writer's block, and then nothing happens. It can be slow. In those moments, I remind myself to take better care of myself. I spend more time with the kids or listen to good music to spark inspiration, and then everything pours out again. I’m so lucky that I’m packing every day, unpacking and packing. I’m living in one suitcase, but for different reasons."
Given her constant travels and the metaphor of living in a suitcase, we were eager to learn what home means to her. "I think it’s the people. Rob makes me feel at home, as do my babies," she reflects, highlighting the importance of personal connections in her life.
SHAB’s journey is a testament to resilience, creativity, and the profound impact of music. Her story resonates with many, reminding us that amidst the chaos of life, it’s the connections we forge and the stories we share that truly ground us.
In the vibrant world of music, few artists embody the duality of passion and perseverance like SHAB. Currently on tour, she shares the exhilarating yet challenging experience of life on the road. “Being on tour is a whirlwind,” she explains. “It’s all-encompassing, passionate, and thrilling, but it also comes with its lows—sacrifice, exhaustion, and constant movement.” Yet, through it all, SHAB finds her heart in her craft, and it’s that passion she hopes to share with her fans.
When asked about the impact she wants her music to have, SHAB replies with sincerity, “I want this album to give them hope, inspiration, and motivation. If they’re having a bad day, I want them to listen to a track like ‘Lipstick,’ look at themselves in the mirror, and feel beautiful.” She believes in the transformative power of music, a force that can transport listeners from their current state to a place of joy. “I want them to get to know my heart. We all are the same; we all are one. They’re part of me as much as I’m part of them.”
This idea of transformation resonates deeply with SHAB. She understands that being bold and vulnerable isn’t easy; it can often feel uncomfortable. Yet, through music, she enables people to explore emotions they may struggle to articulate. “It can be truly eye-opening, and that is the power of music,” she reflects.
At HATC, we love to discover what brings joy to artists' lives. For SHAB, joy can be found in the simplest moments: “When I see my kids smile or pick them up from school, they get excited to see me. Those little things, our Sunday dinners, or even just putting on my favorite lipstick after a long day—those are the moments that make my soul sing.”
Her confidence and passion shine through as she discusses her vision for the future. “I’m so excited to create my own SHAB Squad. I want to be there for my fans. We all have bad days, but together, we can rise above them. I’m all about giving back and want to do good things for the world.”
SHAB’s story embodies the struggles and triumphs of an artist dedicated to her craft. With each performance, she inspires and breaks barriers, reminding us all of the power within ourselves. So as we anticipate her next steps in the music industry, let’s embrace the spirit of empowerment. Put on your favorite lipstick, blast “Lipstick” through your speakers, and dance your heart out. SHAB is here to remind us that we can all find our light, and that there is great love here for all of us.
Photographer Dipu
Styling Daniela Suarez
Hair & MUA Rebecca Hampson
Retouching Azeem Sher
