Shanuka - A Safe Return Back (EP) + 10 Questions
Toronto, ON– Rising R&B artist Shanuka prepares the highly awaited release of her debut EP , "A Safe Return Back," out today. This life-changing quest invites listeners to dive deep into her consciousness, where rich weaves of sound and emotion unfold confusing dualities of life. Comprising seven soul-stirring tracks in total, the EP is graced with a collaboration alongside talented Benita and Louisiana rising star Wakai. Two such grand videos, each bound to its own time and space, come along with the album to channel that divine energy within each song, elevating the spiritual exploration within this life-changing musical experience.
"A Safe Return Back" serves as a door fully opened into Shanuka’s world—a reflection of her journey towards self-awareness and acceptance.
“This project transpired out of me during a time where I did not have anything to write about musically, ” Shanuka shares. “I would sit in the studio and journal, allowing myself to pour out my complex and contradicting thoughts and feelings onto paper. Surprisingly enough, I was able to put those feelings and words into” song.
The EP captures the essence of a woman's introspection, addressing themes of lost and found, masculinity and femininity, and the dance between imposter syndrome and the divine self.
“Through all the trials and tribulations, searching far and wide, you come to realise in the end that whatever you were searching for has always been within,” Shanuka reflects. “Becoming conscious of that is your safe place.”
With each track, Shanuka hopes to resonate with listeners, encouraging them to embark on their own journey towards self-discovery and truth. “I believe you too will find a safe return back to yourself and to your truth because I see you.
Shanuka sat down with Wordplay Magazine to answer our infamous 10 Questions:
1. So tell me, how did it all begin? What sparked your love for music?
It all began with my love and passion for music since I was a little girl evolving with time and leading me to make my own music in high school. Taking inspiration from my favourite artists throughout the years whether it is the production, writing or overall emotion of the music.
2. Who are some artists that influence you and that you want to work with in the future?
At this moment I would love to work with Amaria, Solange, Doechii, Leon Thomas, Rejjie Snow, Damian Marley and Jungle. They all come from different backgrounds musically but I’ve been really enjoying their music in the present moment. I love when music feels like the sound track to my life and all of their music gives me that feeling.
3. What projects do you have coming up and can you give us any info on them?
My Debut EP “A Safe Return Back” comes out on November 1st! This project captures the emotion, feeling and experience I’ve gained within the last 2 years I spent bringing this to life. I would describe this as my journal the way it’s written. Displaying the complexities and deep layers within human existence.. my life. The contradicting thoughts and feelings when stepping into your divine truth. The duality and polarity within yourself.
4. How would you describe your sound?
I would describe my sound as a fusion. More on the Alternative R&B sound mixed with some Neo Soul, Jazz and Hip Hop.
5. What's your proudest moment to date so far as an artist?
My proudest moment to date is the releases of my latest singles leading up to my project “A Safe Return Back”. I love all the visuals I’ve done for this project because it showcases the awakened version of myself, my truth. I’m proud of my growth and evolution as an artist. More than the accolades and applause, seeing the light within yourself get brighter and brighter is beautiful to see and experience.
6. Do you have any advice for our readers who may be trying to play the mad game of music?
My advice would be, do what you like, make what you like, be who you like. Lessen the focus on numbers and aesthetics. Enhance the focus on being intentional with your craft and audience. Stop chasing and just be yourself. Think about why you want to do what you want to do. Everything else will follow with a flow of attraction.
7. Are there any artists on your radar right now that we should check out?
Definitely check out all the Artists I’ve gained inspiration from in question 2. They are some of my favourite artists right now that I know everybody can enjoy and connect to.
8. What albums are on heavy rotation on your Spotify playlist currently?
Albums on heavy rotation for me is always any Bob Marley album.. but specifically Exodus, Kaya and Survival. Not too far off Damian Marley of course, his project Halfway Tree has been on repeat and Welcome to Jamrock is a timeless masterpiece. Electric Dusk by Leon Thomas is another no skip and FKA Twigs CAPRISONGS has been and will always be a life changing experience.
9. What do you like to do when you're not making music?
I love to be outside in nature and ground myself especially when I’m feeling the rush and heaviness of life. I enjoy smoking weed from time to time to keep my mind free and open. I also read and journal often which helps me gain more knowledge to elevate my mind and vocabulary as well.
10. Name Three things you can't live without when in the studio?
I can’t live without my pen and notebook for sure, I’m not really into writing on my phone because it becomes a distraction. I feel writing on paper with all the scratches and corrections brings out a more raw emotion and connection to the music. It feels more real.