Her sTORY 

Growing up in a small town right outside of Pittsburgh, PA the closest Shay got to hip-hop was gospel artist Kirk Franklin and The Winans Phase II. Having parents who didn’t favor mainstream music, Shay always thought if she couldn’t listen to the music the cool kids listened to she’d just make her own.

 

Years later she found herself performing in venues all over New Orleans, where she had moved to attend Loyola University. Sharing the stage with artists such as Nappy Roots, 3D Natee, Black Milk, and Mickey Factz, Shay began developing a buzz in the New Orleans underground Hip-Hop scene and a passion for performing live. She then she released her debut single "Heavily Medicated", which tells the story of a young woman who discovers the consequences of untamed party life.

 

Shortly after the release of "Heavily Medicated", Shay's cousin was murdered, causing her to rethink her plan and desire for her music. “I went through this weird time where I couldn’t write, I had no desire to perform, and I was so mad at God for what happened.  I not only felt like I couldn't move forward with my music, but I didn’t feel like I was suppose to.”

 

Reemerging with a different attitude, a deeper resilience, and a new sound, Shay is ready to take this journey head on. “I always wanted to use any platform that I had in a meaningful and positive way, but I no longer feel satisfied just being "positive" or "conscious", I need to talk about what God has done in my life, and I need to talk about it in my own unique way.”

 

After the recent release of her EP ATLAS, Shay is excited to introduce herself and share her new sound with the world.