R&B’s newest sensation Shade Jenifer is already blowing up the charts as an independent artist. Jenifer released his single “Ain’t No Problem,” and it was the Top 5 added single on the Urban Media Base charts, charting with several high-ranking artists such as Rihanna, Drake, and Jeremih. The single was played by 20 radio stations, and it was the No. 1 Most Added Indy Record.
DJ Young Music (Ginuwine’s nephew) is suave, young businessman who recognized the D.C. native’s musical talents and signed him to his independent label, DYMG (distributed by eOne). DJ Young Music recognized Jenifer’s organic sound and knew there was something special about him.
“His sound, his voice caught my ear, but it was his drive and work ethic that got him signed to DYMG,” said DJ Young Music. “Not only does he write, produce, and perform his own music, he’s committed to his artistry. His is God sent!”
He released his self-titled debut album on May 20th, and music lovers can definitely listen to music that is meaningful and worthwhile. Shade Jenifer is already an artist that values quality over quantity which exemplifies his desire to make classics in the near future.
With the help of DYMG management, his God-given gift, and the ones closest to him, Shade Jenifer’s musical path will continue to soar, and self-defeat is not an option.
In between meetings and interviews with MTV executives, Singersroom.com conversed with the young singer about musical influences, his fascination with music, working with Ginuwine’s nephew DJ Young Music, and what the world should expect from Shade Jenifer.
Pursuing a Career in Music: Music was just pretty much around me when I was a kid. I just enjoyed listening to it when I was a kid. I paid attention to how music made people feel when they listen to certain records. Music can release so many emotions from people, and I just wanted to be a part of that at a young age.
Musical Influences: Usher, Chris Brown, and Michael Jackson are my greatest inspirations. MJ sparked my interest in performing and his music is timeless. Ten, fifteen, or twenty years from now people can still listen to an MJ record. I just want to be like Mike as far as making music that caters to everyone and have great dance moves. MJ is an entertainer, and he has influenced so many generations after him.
Learning to Play Several Instruments: I started playing instruments when I was in church. I played the piano from watching my father; then the drums were the first instrument I taught myself how to play. I would watch certain YouTube videos and learn how to play songs on the drums. I learned the saxophone in school, and I chose that instrument because it was different from the rest. I just like the way the sax sounds, especially when you listen to jazz. I would like to play other instruments down the line, but those are the ones I play for now.
Signed to DJ Young Music’s label, DYMG: I was still in school at the time, and DJ Young Music held a mix show on WPGC- 95.5FM radio station in D.C. He was looking for local artists who were really, really, talented and the winner would have massive airplay on the radio. So my friends kept telling me I should join it, and I started adding my songs on social media. When I had enough tags on social media, DJ Young Music listened to my music, and he was impressed. I signed a deal with his label and everything just took off from there.
Single, “Ain’t No Problem”: It’s great to have a Top 5 independent record and be charted with Rihanna, Drake, and Jeremih. I just thank God because of how everything was planned out, and I’m just getting started in my career. But I can’t get comfortable; I have to keep working to better myself as an artist and make my mark in this business.
Concept for “Ain’t No Problem”: “Ain’t No Problem”: “Ain’t No Problem” is a cool and fun record about a girl who just ended a relationship and wasn’t looking for anything serious. And I’m like cool, ain’t a problem; we can just have fun, no pressure. The beat is hot, and it can be played on any given occasion.
What We Should Expect on the Debut Album: It’s a hot and fun album that everyone can listen to. I strive to make music that is timeless, and that’s what I aim to accomplish while completing this album. I mean, everything is just clean and not hostile. It’s just a great listen.
Other Hobbies Outside of Music: I was an athlete growing up; I played football and basketball. I also like to work out, watch TV, and just have fun. I am an outdoor person, but I’m not down with the illegal or harmful things that take place outside.
Collaboration Aspirations: I would definitely love to work with Chris Brown, he is one of my biggest idols. He has influenced me to pursue music, and I studied him since I was a little kid. I would love to work with Beyonce because she is a BEAST. Usher is another artist because I just love his vocals and how he progressed as an artist. I’m thinking about more artists, and I can also throw in Drake, Rihanna, and Jhene Aiko. I just want to work with so many people because I can explore other forms and genres of music. Music should be limitless, creative, and authentic.
Long-Term Goals: I want to influence people through my music and just keep my name alive. I just want to make music that is meaningful and real for the world. I want people to listen to my music and know it’s a Shade Jenifer record because of my musical sound and voice. But for me to do that, I have to be myself. It can not be duplicated. Real recognizes real, so there’s no need for me to be fake and untrue.
To learn more about Shade Jenifer and his hectic schedule, check out his “Day In The Life” vlog below: