Meet Shaquille St. John | Atlanta-based Content Creator and Musician

We had the good fortune of connecting with Shaquille St. John and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Shaquille, can you tell us more about your background and the role it’s played in shaping who you are today?
I was born in Norwalk, Connecticut, but grew up in Georgia from the age of 4. Growing up with a single mom, she served as the backbone of our family. All of the person I am today is a direct reflection of how she raised us. She was born in Trinidad and Tobago, and wanted to come to the United States at 18 to start a better life for herself and for her future family. Once she realized I had a gift, I was involved in many of our home church’s musical ensembles, from singing with the Sunshine Band to joining the adult worship team as an 11 year old. She taught me never give up on myself, and to always strive for what I want, and earn it fair and square. She taught us to be kind, compassionate, and also determined, as far as accomplishing our goals and achieving success.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I attended Georgia Southern University’s Fred and Dinah Gretsch School of Music for my undergraduate degree in Music – Vocal Performance. I also attended the University of Tennessee Knoxville’s Haslam College of Music for my Master’s of Music degree in Vocal Performance. Singing has always been my most passionate hobby my entire life. I joined choir in the 3rd grade, and the rest was history. I was only interested in joining choir, because I grew up attending my big sister’s famous chorus shows. They inspired me to want to sing, and perform the way I saw my big sister having the best time performing.

I am now an adjunct professor of voice at Morris Brown College in Atlanta, Georgia. My journey was not easy at all, from failing music theory the first time I took it, to wondering if I was ever going to make it through school. The music major wasn’t easy either, as late rehearsals and early mornings became my normal routine. However, I knew this was the only thing I wanted to spend the rest of my life doing, making music. Making art. My experience in graduate school at UT really shaped the “voice teacher” in me, that I didn’t know existed. Along with performing and being on stage, I absolutely loved having a small studio of students during my time as a Graduate Teaching Assistant in the Voice Area at UT. I found myself rooting for my students and becoming invested in their vocal success the way my teachers did me, and it seemed to have come full circle. I am very passionate about the arts, and what it does for people. Along the way, I’ve learned to never give up on something just because it doesn’t work out the first time. When I failed my first music class, and didn’t think I was fit to be a classical musician, the guidance of my family and circle of friends, pushed me to put my mind to it, and push all the way through to the end during my second time around. Fast forward, and I now have two degrees in classical music. 19 year old me wouldn’t believe I teach professionally at an HBCU in Atlanta, Georgia.

As for my brand, I pride myself on being authentic and original. I love to make things my own, think outside the box, and put my own spin on things. I think that’s what makes us unique. That’s what makes all of us unique. I believe that I have a lot to offer as a Content Creator, Professor, and Performer.

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?
Atlanta has become my new home after graduating from graduate school at UTK. I grew up north of Atlanta in Gwinnett County, so living in the city has been one of the most fun things to explore.

STK in Midtown has one of the BEST happy hours ever, as I’m in love with their oysters, spiced watermelon cocktail, and steak frites!

If we’re looking for dinner spots, the beltline has some of the best food, and places to just hang out while getting some great fresh air.

I used to live in Marietta, so the battery is BY FAR one of my favorite places to go out to in the evening. From Jeni’s Ice cream to Ph’east’s cocktails, to YARDHOUSE’s poke nachos, I could spend hours at the Battery if you let me!

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 would like to dedicate this shoutout to my family, my mom Glenda, and my sister Sadé, who always encourages me to never give up on my dreams, and to accomplish anything I put my mind to. Their mentorship and encouraging spirits are what keeps me going each day. I’d also love to dedicate this to my partner, Kamron, who always helps me see the good in things, and constantly reminds me that everything happens for a reason.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shaquillemstjohn?igsh=MW9lN2JsY3lvcXNiZQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shaquille-st-john-m-m-079761264/