We had the good fortune of connecting with Shanae Speller and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Shanae, is your business focused on helping the community? If so, how?

The Composed Music Festival is dedicated to promoting mental wellness by fostering creativity and composition within BIPOC communities. Our primary objective is to establish a supportive and safe space for individuals grappling with anxiety and depression, particularly those without access to health insurance or the resources to see a therapist. In addition, we aim to diminish the stigma associated with mental illness within our community initially, with the broader goal of extending this impact globally.

Collaborating with organizations closely connected to mental health, we strive to amplify our mission and make it a collective effort within the community. This approach ensures that our initiative becomes more community-centric, emphasizing the importance of solidarity in addressing mental health challenges.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?

My journey has been far from easy, yet undeniably rewarding. With over 15 years in the music industry, I initially embarked as a rap artist and later transitioned into radio around 2008, even before internet radio gained prominence. Music has always been my passion, and the belief that I would one day make a global impact fueled a relentless determination within me.

Following my radio stint, I resolved to use my acquired skills to assist other artists in their musical development. In 2020, just before the pandemic unfolded, I decided to pivot my career trajectory. Pursuing an MBA at Howard University, I was honored to receive the Hennessy Fellows Scholarship. This not only provided me with mentorship from Jasmin Allen (SVP of Hennessy US, and the first black woman in the company’s c-suite) but also an opportunity to pitch for funding for a community project. Winning 9k out of the total 10k, I established the Composed Music Festival—an event celebrating mental wellness by empowering creativity in BIPOC communities.

Throughout this journey, I discovered my passion for mental health, merging it with my profound industry knowledge. What sets me apart is a combination of intelligence, strategic thinking, and a deep understanding of how the music industry operates. Despite the scarcity of black women executives in my upbringing, I always aspired to become one. Music has been the guiding force in my life, shaping an extraordinary journey that I am eager to share with the world.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
To kick off the Houston experience, the first order of business would be indulging in the city’s delectable food scene—I call Houston home, after all! The must-visit spot on my list is The Breakfast Klub, renowned for its soulful culinary delights and visitors from around the world. Following this, a serene visit to Hermann Park would be in order, providing a chance to unwind and soak in the natural vibes of the city. Not one for bustling clubs, I’d opt for a laid-back lounge, and Off The Record stands out as Houston’s latest hotspot for mingling, enjoying great drinks, and vibing—it’s a definite must for anyone in the city.

For a shopping spree, a trip to The Galleria mall is essential; it boasts every imaginable store, offering a top-tier shopping experience. Depending on the season, a visit to Galveston beach could be on the agenda, especially if you relish the tranquility of being by the water. Personally, it’s one of my favorite places to meditate, relax, and listen to an engaging audiobook.

Beyond that, if you’re paying me a visit, be prepared to spend some quality time in the studio—because when you’re with me, we’ll be creating.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I want to express my heartfelt gratitude, beginning with a shoutout to God for molding me into the creative individual I am. I am thankful for the spirit of ambition instilled in me and the resilience to overcome all obstacles. Special thanks to my family and friends, with a heartfelt acknowledgment to my mom and dad, for their unwavering support throughout the years.

A big shoutout to my fiancée, Dre, whose constant encouragement and support empower me in everything I undertake. I extend my appreciation to the artists I manage, trusting me with their aspirations, and to everyone who has pressed play, purchased a ticket, or shared a post—your support means the world to me!

Website: www.composedfest.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/shanaeniganss

Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/shanae-m-speller-mba-170929b9

Facebook: www.facebook.com/composedmusicfestival

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKtR5JGbxdg9x_-vHyymSJA

Image Credits
Trinidad James Razor Sharp Dre Stoppa Its Charity Work Flamin’ Hot Slapwoods

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