Interview: Shae Wilbur
Shae Wilbur has just released her five-song Unmovable EP. The Internationally known recording artist and songwriter is also a Los Angeles-based TV Host, casting producer for American Idol, style expert for Emmy Award-winning talk show The Real, as well as Celebrity Page TV, The Wendy Williams Show, E! News and more. LTTM spoke to Shae to find out a little more about the music side to her many roles.
For people who haven't come across you before, tell us a little about yourself and how you get involved in making music.
Where to begin? :) I’m a new mom, TV host, producer and singer/songwriter. Yep, I know that’s a lot, but my life has gone in so many unexpected directions and I’ve loved every different season that I’ve walked through.
Music has been a part of my life from a very young age. My dad is a singer and as a kid I grew up going to his concerts and listening to him write songs in our living room - I always knew this was something I was meant to do as well. I released an album about 10 years ago called Mercy Calling and toured the world with it, but auditioning for American Idol is what really sent my life in a new and exciting direction. After appearing on Season 8, I quickly delved into the TV world as an on-camera host and producer. I’ve been doing that, in addition to my songwriting, for the past 8 years and have loved every minute of it.
It has been a while since I’ve released music of my own and I felt like - with these 5 songs - the time was right. I’m so excited to share this project with the world.
Tell us about your new EP Unmovable?
I’m so excited to share these songs with you! I worked really hard on this EP for the past couple of years, and the songs themselves were birthed out of a really tough time in my life... I essentially wrote the words that my spirit needed to hear at the time. It’s my prayer they are able to bring encouragement to those who hear them.
What is your favourite song on the EP?
Probably “Unmovable.” I just remember writing those lyrics and feeling every single word in my soul. At the time I needed to be reminded that I was UNMOVABLE in the Lord - no matter what was going on around me. The song still makes me emotional when I hear it.
How would you describe your style of music and what are your influences?
I’m influenced by so many different things... a bible verse that jumps out at me, a little melody that’ll pop into my head, even my Messianic Jewish heritage inspires me to write and dig into the Jewishness of my faith in Jesus.
When it comes to my music, I’d say it is worship with a little bit of a pop edge.
You do so much, how do you fit making music into your busy schedule?
Honestly juggling everything isn’t easy... but you make time for what you love to do. :)
Do you think artists should be more honest in their music?
I think music is best when it’s honest, so that being said - yes. :) Sometimes we get caught up in this idea that things have to be perfect all the time, or appear perfect... that we can’t have a “low” moment. Often times that results in us feeling alone and isolated. I love the idea of people being able to relate to my music in the good and “bad” times.
If you could work with any songwriter, who would it be and why?
I’ve always dreamed of working with Amy Grant. I grew up listening to her music, hers was the first concert I ever went to as a kid and I’ve always felt a connection to the heart behind her music.
Another one I’d love to work with would be TobyMac. He’s been such a staple in the industry and has done an incredible job at raising up and sowing into new artists.
How would you define success in your career?
To me, success isn’t about achieving a certain amount of recognition, selling a certain amount of albums, it’s about being obedient to God in whatever season of life I’m in... and serving Him in all I do. As long as I’m where God wants me - I feel successful.
What is your favourite album of all time?
Probably the album that I’ve listened to the most would be Shane & Shane, Psalms. All of the songs were taken directly from the book of Psalms, and whenever I’m feeling anxious, stressed out, or even just a little down, I put on this album and it always lifts my spirit.
You're stuck on an island, it's hot, you only have enough battery life left to listen to one song on your phone. What track is it?
Currently I’ve had “Is He worthy” by Chris Tomlin on repeat. I can’t seem to get enough of it, so I’d say that song! :)
What does the next year hold for Shae Wilbur?
Well I’ll definitely be working on some new music and hopefully hitting the road a bit to share it live! All that on top of being a new mom and a working TV host!
