Shiré: Baltimore’s Daughter

Let’s hop right into this single, “Walk Away,” produced by Cory Mo — Tell me about this particular track; how did it come to fruition?

The song “Walk Away” was created for the soundtrack to 17 Days, the movie in which the message is geared towards walking away from domestic violence.

Of course “Walk Away” comes courtesy of your still forthcoming – not to mention long overdue – solo debut, Baltimore’s Daughter — What all can you reveal and / or divulge about upcoming said body of work?

I actually released the mixtape to Baltimore’s Daughter years ago, but my current body of work is the soundtrack to Angie’s Cure by director, Corey Grant, and Lanette Tachel. The soundtrack will be available soon. Stay tuned.

How then does this new material(s) either differ and / or compare to previous Shiré entries?

My new material has been influenced by the TV and film projects I’ve been blessed to be a part of. I’ve experienced so much growth creatively and vocally. Most of the new music I’ve created has been with my friend and producer, Willie Bailey. We have built a nice catalog of songs that we use for TV and film submissions.

As a songwriter, when you sit down to pen your lyrics where do you draw your inspiration from?

My inspiration comes from life experiences. Trial and error. Triggers and traumas. Love and relationships.

Reflecting, tell me your whole inception into music — When did you first become interested in it? And, how did it all begin for Shiré?

My love for music started very young. I would listen to my grandma, Beatrice, sing in the choir, and it made me want to sing.

Now you’re a native of Baltimore, MD, correct? So growing up in ‘Charm City,’ who all did / do you consider to be your strongest musical influences?

My musical influences other than my grandma was Baltimore’s own Dru Hill, in which I ended up signing my first recording deal to Def Jam. I am formerly Chinky of SisQo’s girl group Lovher.

In having said that, how do you classify your overall sound and / or style?

My sound will always be soulful with hints of Hip Hop, R&B, Trap and Jazz. And depending on the project, I can also deliver the melodic, Pop vocals as well.

What particular string of events actually led to your initial linking up with SisQo and the eventual formation of Lovher?

I first met SisQo with his group Dru Hill. He wanted to create the female version of his group. That’s where the formation of Lovher came from.

Ultimately, what caused the group to later disband?

Our group dismantled due to internal issues. It’s so unfortunate because I feel we could have definitely made an impact back then.

You then went on to ink a solo deal with SRC/Universal with plans firmly in place for a promising solo career, but nothing much ever materialized from that situation — Why do you feel that is?

The timing of my 2nd deal with SRC/Universal was during the music industry’s transition into streaming. The labels weren’t prepared for the shift, and they took financial hits during this process which affected them breaking new artists. I got caught in the crossfire of it.

Switching gears here…

What do you think it is that has been the key to your longevity?

The key to my longevity has been my positive mindset. Learning new skills. Becoming a Music Supervisor, in which I’m able to place songs and help other aspiring artists. And lastly, having a great business partner like my good friend Charles King. He has been such a positive impact in my life. He knows his shit, and we have made a great team. Team work makes the dream work!

What do you want people to get from your music?

I want people to feel and to be inspired. I want to be an example of Hope to those who are contemplating giving up. DON’T!

On a more serious note, are you happy with the current state of R&B?

I think the current state of R&B is definitely evolving. Music always does. I appreciate the creativity of some of our new younger artists. Much respect to H.E.R., Summer Walker, Ari Lennox, Jazmine Sullivan and Silk Sonic. As well as our crooners like Tank, Dru Hill, Ruff Endz, Anthony Hamilton, Musiq Soulchild and more.

Do you have any other outside / additional aspirations, maybe even completely away from music?

I’m expanding my goals now. I now have a seat at the table when it comes to music supervision for TV and film. My goal is to eventually have my own production company. I started out in theater, and I love acting. I would love to be the star of my own production one day.

To date, what has been your greatest career moment(s), at least thus far anyway?

My greatest career moment was performing for the troops over in Iraq and Kuwait. I opened up for R&B singer Avant for a 10 day tour to six Army bases.

What’s an average day like for you?

An average day for me is to get to the bag! I’m currently working on a new film and TV series pilot. I am working out, writing, recording, reading scripts and completing cue sheets.

Please discuss how you interact with and respond to fans…

I interact the most on my Instagram: @shireuniversal.

What is your favorite part about this line of work? Your least favorite? And, why?

My favorite part of this work is being able to create, and my least favorite part is having to deal with the occasional bad business people.

What advice would you have for someone wanting to follow in your footsteps?

My advice is to learn the business, have mentors, self discipline, a great team and the willingness to adapt to the changes in the entertainment industry. Keep Creating!!

Lastly, what’s next for Shiré?

What’s next for me is more music from my movie and TV projects, which includes music supervision. I plan to release music, perform, act and repeat!

Is there anything I left out, or just plain forgot to mention?

No, you asked great questions.

Any “closing” thought(s) for our readers?

Make sure to follow me @shireuniversal on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter. @shireuniversal1 on TikTok.