Lady Shakespeare
Rapper Lady Shakespeare’s namesake is quite the one to live up to. But after listening to just a few minutes of her music, it’s clear that the artist deserves the title. She’s been compared to artists like Missy Elliot and Da Brat, however she considers herself an original-- and justifiably so. She began seriously writing at age 18, and hasn’t looked back since then. Songs such as “Genesis” and “I Deserve You” highlight her style and have earned thousands of streams. The artist’s talent is unmistakably unique, hence the thousands of monthly listeners that she has on Spotify. Only one year following her streaming debut, Lady Shakespeare has already been featured on Vibration Records’ upcoming Rap + R&B playlist. Looking towards the future, she’s poised to become a household name. We recently spoke with Lady Shakespeare about her daily routine, her musical influences, and more!
How did you get started making music?
I developed an interest and love for music for as long as I can remember. I started writing when I was 11 and decided to take it more seriously when I was 18.
How’d you decide on the stage name Lady Shakespeare?
At the time, I was known as Jazzy.B, shortened for my actual name, Jasmin Bain. But it turns out someone already has that name. So I had to come up with a name that defines who I am as an artist and stand out. So with my interest in Shakespearean plays and how Shakespeare wrote stories, I came up with Lady Shakespeare. I tell stories.
Can you walk us through your creative process?
I wake up, pray, rehearse, and record. When I record, I like for it to be me and the engineer. My biggest pet peeve is distractions. I'm very big on concentration and no distractions.
When you’re not making music, what are you doing?
The usual. Visiting my mum, relaxing at home, writing, meditating, self love..ya know?
You’ve got a pretty different sound between your first two singles and last two. What inspired this transition?
I come from a very cultural background. With my mother being American and my father being Bahamian, music in my household was universal. From Motown to Reggae, Hip Hop, R&B, Dancehall, Reggaeton, Afro-Beats. Music to me was and is still to this day versatile. And I believe it's important to be versatile because it allows you to think outside the box into a whole different world of creativity. So I would say it comes from being versatile.
Who’s your choice for a dream collab?
Jay-Z, Kendrick Lamar & Stormzy. If all 3, sheesh.....lets go! I can't pick just one. They got bars for days.
Do you have any future projects you’re working on?
Yes I am working on my EP, Carpe Diem, which will be releasing soon.
