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| Hometown | Los Angeles, CA |
| Genres | Pop, R & B |
| Band Members | Shining Rae |
| Achievements |
» more |
| Upcoming Shows | None |
| Contact Information: | |
| # Years Experience Performing Live: | 15 |
| # Live Perfomances Past Six-months: | 10 |
| Market Draw: | Home Market: 76-100; Home: 800+; Internet : 800+ |
| Venue History: | Eden's Lounge - Baltimore, MD Bobby McKeys Piano Lounge - Oxon Hill (D.C. Metro Area), MD Quadmania Festival - Baltimore, MD Ultra Lounge - Baltimore, MD Belvedere Hotel - Baltimore, MD Busboys and Poets - Washington, DC Louisiana Tech University TAC Aren - Ruston, LA Arkansas State P.R.I.D.E. Convention - Hot Springs, AR The White House - Washington, DC The R Bar NYC - New York, NY The Afterthought - Little Rock, AR The Mint - Los Angeles , CA The Study - los angeles, CA Black United Fun Plaza a.k.a. The Shrine - Harlem, NY R bar - New York , Ny |
| Opener Experience: | Mannie Fresh; Ill Nicky |
| Similar Artists: | India.Arie; Mariah Carey; Rihanna |
| Performing Rights Society: | BMI |
| Discography: | Tap Out Single—2019; Vibez & Vocals EP—2017; Dollar Signs Single—2016; Beautiful Day Single—2011; SUGAR Single—2011; Shining Rae EP—2010; DREAMING Single—2010; Tell Me Whatcha Want Single—2008; Pushin Whips Single—2008 |
Los Angeles-based singer/songwriter/celebrity vocal producer, Shining Rae, is a musician to watch. On June 28, 2021 Rae reached a pivotal milestone and accepted a invitation to join The Recording Academy Class of 2021 (Los Angeles Chapter) as a voting...
Los Angeles-based singer/songwriter/celebrity vocal producer, Shining Rae, is a musician to watch. On June 28, 2021 Rae reached a pivotal milestone and accepted a invitation to join The Recording Academy Class of 2021 (Los Angeles Chapter) as a voting member. As a member of music’s most prestigious organization she will have the privilege to shape the music industry, the future of music, and its role in society. Rae has gained popularity as "the girl with the angel voice. Her urban pop/soul style is heavily influenced by Stevie Wonder, Mariah Carey, Rihanna, and Aaliyah. As an international triple threat, she has contributed her talents to many, but nothing has been more rewarding than her own music. Rae has released 2 digital EPs and several singles. Her radio singles “Sugar” (2011) & “Dollar Signs” (2016), and “Tap Out” (2019) along with her Vibez and Vocals EP are all in rotation on FM radio stations in the United States and Europe (debuted on KZRB 103.5 (TX, Flames Radio UK 94.4 FM and more). She is featured in several magazines and popular radio blogs around the world such as Power 106 FM’s “LA Leakers” in March 29, 2019 that premiered her single “Tap Out” ahead of major artists such as Saweetie, Lil Uzi Vert, and Khalid. She is currently performing regularly in Los Angeles at popular live music events such as Upluggd LA, After Church LA (created and hosted by Grammy Nominated producer My Guy Mars of 1500 or Nothin), and The Mint LA to promote her new hit EP “Vibez and Vocals Vol.1” (Released Dec. 2017 & currently 40,000 + streams on Spotify).
Shining Rae has also made a name for herself as a songwriter for notable
collaborations with award-winning songwriters Makeba Riddick Woods (Beyonce, Rihanna) ,Sam Hook (Trey Songz, Bruno Mars) , and Lil Eddie (5th Harmony, Syco/Sony Music). In 2016 she gained the attention of Roc Nation Executive A&R Omar Grant (Rihanna) who invited her to work in studio as part of a songwriting camp for global superstar Rihanna.
Since the age of 12, Shining Rae has won many talents shows, booked professional gigs all over the South and Midwest, and had her own song copyright by age 17. Growing up in Southern Arkansas with parents who are musicians/songwriters made music an inevitable love of Shining Rae. She grew up singing in church and around her community in a gospel music trio/band with her parents.
Shining Rae defines music as an extension of her soul that she plans on sharing with the world. With influences such as Stevie Wonder, Mariah Carey, and Anita Baker, Shining Rae writes music that paints pictures with words and makes one feel empowered. Her distinctive voice is sultry, yet smooth and angelic. Her versatility adds flavor to any genre of music. She is a self-taught guitarist, pianist, and trained flute and piccolo player. Shining Rae is no stranger to showbiz. Throughout high school, she represented her hometown as a vocalist and dancer for Arkansas's State P.R.I.D.E. (Parents and Resources In Drug-free Education) team and was also selected as 1 of 4 National vocalists. It was during a 2002 performance/competition in Cincinnati, Ohio that she received a standing ovation of more than 5,000 people after singing a powerful cover of "Emotions" by Destiny's Child. This performance led the Arkansas State Team to its first national victory. That monumental day was all the validation Shining Rae needed to feel sure that she was born to sing. This also led to her growing passion for community outreach to “at- risk” teens. She has been featured in The Banner News and the Ruston Daily Leader for her philanthropic efforts utilizing her music to motivate kids to go for their dreams. From 2010-2013 her website featured a section called “Shining Rae’s Shining Stars of Tomorrow” that was dedicated to talented children.
Shining Rae graduated with honors from Louisiana Tech University as a Clinical Laboratory Scientist and left her Southern roots to follow her dreams. She moved to Baltimore, Maryland and worked as a Scientist at Johns Hopkins Hospital for 4 years. With very little sleep, she mastered the art of juggling her science and music careers. From November 2008 to May 2009, Shining Rae was a background singer for TMG Records artist Nisha Hester. She performed at President Barack Obama’s first “Lighting of the National Christmas Tree” in Washington, D.C. She has also collaborated with and opened up for Hip-Hop artists such as Baltimore's own Huli Shallone and subsequently performed regularly as a featured artist in lounges located inside the historic Belvedere Hotel in Baltimore and Eden’s Lounge. Later in 2010-2013 Rae went on to perform in New York City’s R-Bar (Bowery) and multiple times at The Shrine World Music Avenue in Harlem, NY. In 2018 she was the opening act for New Orleans legendary rapper Mannie Fresh at the Beat Street Hip Hop Festival in San Diego, CA.
In an exclusive article published in the 2008 November/December issue of Baltimore's Name It magazine, CEO Shawnise Kearney stated, "Shining Rae truly has a gift from God." Shining Rae’s captivating lyrics, musicianship, and vocals of her pop single “Dreaming” (released in 2010) caught the attention of Andre Harrell as she was selected as a semi-finalist in his National Superstar Soul Search competition in July 2010. In May of 2011 Shining Rae caught the attention of (MTV partner) OURSTAGE Magazine in which journalist Emily Cassel featured Shining Rae’s single “Dreaming” as the “ Breakup Anthem” for every girl to “unleash her inner diva.” As a result of fan voting, Shining Rae went on to become the Grand Prize winner in the OurStage Artist Access Competition in July, with her hit single “Dreaming” landing her an opportunity to perform live in NYC and meet music industry giant Bruce Tyler (former EVP of Sony Music and Columbia Records).
Currently, Rae is featured on songs with multi-platinum selling recording artist Ray J“Anniversary" (2017), Lil Yee's "Straight to the Point" (Album: Cita Son 2017/ Empire Records), single "Primetime" by Adonis (Priority/Capitol Records), single "Declined" alongside OVO artist/producer Mike Zombie and Cloudy X Nueve, the late Leah Labelle’s posthumous EP “Love to the Moon” released by hit producer Pharrell Williams (2018), and featured on 2 songs from the “Dawgma” album by rising LA rapper OSBE Chill (discovered and developed by rapper/actor The Game). She is in the studio writing with recording artist/Universal Music Group hit songwriter Tish Hyman, Rapper/Actor Bre-Z (“Empire” & “All American” tv shows), and highly acclaimed battle rapper King Los (seen on the 2019 BET Hip Hop Awards Cypher, Wild N Out, & Rhythm & Flow on Netflix).
Rae’s most successful songwriting/vocal production placement is the single “Stay” by Iakopo (Orchard/Sony) which gained over 13 million music video streams on YouTube within the first 2 weeks (released June 3, 2019).
The summer 2019 proved to be a major turning point in Rae’s life in which she manifested her biggest dream come true. World-renowned movie director Brett Ratner (X-Men, Rush Hour 1 & 2) was so impressed by Rae’s talent he surprised Rae by inviting her to meet and spend an evening with her music idol Mariah Carey. Videos of Rae singing along with Mariah have since gone viral online and inspired Rae to the highest level. She has since collaborated with her favorite multi-platinum/Grammy Award winning songwriter Diane Warren on a remake of her Oscar Nominated song “I’m Standing With You” for a global charity called “Mission Onlus” protecting the civil rights of women and children who are victims of abuse. With an "old soul & heart of gold" and ability to create meaningful songs of all genres, it is clear that Shining Rae is well on her way to becoming the music industry's hottest female musician who makes meaningful music that resonates with the hearts of people around the globe.
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Check out Shining Rae's interview at Time Marker 0:22 ;)Americanidol.com chats it up with auditioners on who was the driving force behind them trying out, and what sacrifices they've made.
This Episode features Singer/Songwriter Shining Rae. She discussed her new EP release available on Itunes and gives aspiring artists advice. This show features Independent Artists. We specialize in...
Check out Shining Rae's interview at Time Marker 0:22 ;) Americanidol.com chats it up with auditioners on who was the driving force behind them trying out, and what sacrifices they've made.
This Episode features Singer/Songwriter Shining Rae. She discussed her new EP release available on Itunes and gives aspiring artists advice. This show features Independent Artists. We specialize in R&B, Neo-Soul, Jazz and Spoken Word. We play new music for your listening pleasure.
Showcase showdown Round one of the annual Times showcase kicks off ThursdayTHE JUDGES by Robert Bell Published January 25, 2012 2012 marks the 20th year of what became the Arkansas Times Musicians Showcase. It was started in 1993 by the now defunct Spectrum Weekly, and the Times took it over a long about 1997. The winner of that first showcase? That'd be Substance, the Towncraft-era melodic hardcore band. The other winners, chronologically, were: Ho-Hum, Pokerface, Ashtray Babyhead, Big Cats, Big John Miller & The Direction, Brenda & Ellis, Big Silver, Mojo Depot, Runaway Planet, Salty Dogs, Grandpa's Goodtime Fandango, The Odds, Hannah Blaylock & Eden's Edge, Cooper's Orbit, 607, Velvet Kente, Brother Andy & His Big Damn Mouth and Tyrannosaurus Chicken. So which band will be the 20th? Over the next six weeks, we'll find out. Starting Thursday at Stickyz, four acts will square off each night for five judges, who will award points based on originality, song quality, musicianship and showmanship. The winner of each semifinal round will go on to the finals, March 2 at Revolution. The grand prize winner will net a bevy of great prizes and will be immortalized with a drink named in his, her or their honor at Stickyz. Shining Rae Shining Rae is the stage name for Shannin Watkins, a Magnolia native who graduated with honors from Louisiana Tech University in 2006 and moved to Baltimore for a job as a clinical lab scientist at Johns Hopkins Hospital. Last summer, Watkins' melodic kiss-off "Dreaming" won the monthly Artists Access competition on OurStage.com. The prize was a mentoring session with industry vet and former Sony Music EVP Bruce Tyler, who has advised John Legend, Beyonce, The Fray among many others. Now based in Little Rock, Watkins has released a digital EP and two singles of catchy, soulful pop. Her songs range from sultry ballads to ear candy of the sweetest sort. Her single "Sugar" will get stuck in your head for days.
Bronze Magazine NYC---Published September 26, 2011 By Editor-in-Chief Shawn Chavis “Shining Rae,” born Shannin Rae Watkins, defines music as an extension of her soul that she plans on sharing with the world. This gifted artists’ captivating lyrics, musicianship, and vocals of her pop single “Dreamin” (released in 2010) caught the attention of legendary music icon Andre Harrell as she was selected as a semi-finalist in his National Superstar Soul Search competition in July 2010. One year later in May 2011 Shining Rae caught the attention of OurSTAGE Magazine (MTV partner) in which journalist Emily Cassel featured her single “Dreaming” as the “Breakup Anthem” for every girl to “unleash her inner diva.” As a result of fan voting Shining Rae went on to become the Grand Prize winner in the OurStage Artist Access Competition in July, with her hit single “Dreaming” landing her an opportunity to perform live in NYC and meet music industry giant Bruce Tyler (former EVP of Sony Music and Columbia Records). Take a look at what Shannin had to say to us about her life, her dreams, her music and giving back to other aspiring artists… BM: Shannin, please share how you adopted the name “Shining Rae.” Shining Rae with Dad Shining Rae: My dad picked my name before I was born and decided to spell “Shannin” with an “I” instead of an “O” because it sounded similar to “Shining” when spoken. Rae is my middle name. He said as first time parents he and my mom looked at me as the gift that was a “shining light” in their lives. As I grew up and started to show my animated/extroverted personality, my dad nicknamed me “Shining Rae.” He acquired the nickname Tyree “Goldfingers” Watkins from his band mates because he was such a talented piano/keyboard player. Growing up I thought it was cool for a musician to have a catchy stage name. Eventually, I started sharing my nickname with friends in grade school. As I started singing in church and local talents shows everyone adopted my nickname as my current stage name. It’s been history ever since then. BM: You are such a positive person filled with so much “light.” I’m sure you know the music business can be rough. How do you manage to stay so balanced in this industry? Shining Rae: I know God has anointed me with gifts that I can use to make a difference in others’ lives. Once I grew to see my purpose I decided to do all I can to keep my focus on the things that will help me stay on the right path. Although I have faced many challenges as an indie artist, I’ve tried my best to use each learning experience to my advantage by increasing my wisdom and awareness. Keeping my family and sincere friends in my life makes it so much easier to stay encouraged. The best skill I’ve developed is that I can quickly determine the difference between those who want to help me become successful versus those who simply want to use my talents for their own benefit/success. Gifts are meant to be shared, not given away. BM: Tell us about the moment you won the Grand Prize for the Ourstage Artist Access Competition. What were you thinking and feeling? Shining Rae: When Ourstage called to tell me that I was the grand prize winner, the first thing I thought was “this is the open door I’ve prayed for!” My hit song “Dreaming” (voted number 1 by fans) has landed me an opportunity to perform live in New York City and meet music industry giant Bruce Tyler. I couldn’t believe that the same man who’s advised artists including Beyonce’, John Mayer, John Legend, Aerosmith, Lenny Kravitz, The Fray and many more had handpicked me to showcase my talent for him live in NYC. I was overwhelmed with so many emotions. After I got off the phone I had to gather my thoughts before calling my parents to share the good news. I couldn’t believe that I’d gone from a virtually unknown singer/songwriter from a small town of Magnolia, Arkansas to having my music recognized by Bruce Tyler, an industry giant. Overall, I knew I could not miss this opportunity. I started planning everything right away to make the most out of this once in a lifetime experience. Shining Rae performing Live at the R Bar, NYC BM: Your music is so enlightening. Two of my favorite songs of yours are Dreaming and your newest song titled Sugar. What inspires your sound and your music? Shining Rae: Love of life and all its mysteries inspires me to write. I use my music and lyrics to recreate my real life experiences in a way that people can relate to them. I call my songwriting “painting pictures with words.” I take the good with the bad and try to find a way to tell a story with a “life’s lesson” as the “happy ending.” I’ve always loved writing short stories. Even in college my Language Arts professors always said I had a very distinct/colorful style of writing that appealed to the imagination and always stood out amongst other students. One of my favorite professors said she could recognize my papers by just reading it without even seeing my name on the page. So naturally I tend to put my signature sound in songs. I try to appeal to all five senses in every song I write. If I can get listeners to feel, smell, hear, taste, and see what I sing about then I know I’ve captured the true essence of good music. BM: Who are some of your major musical influences? Shining Rae: Michael Jackson, Stevie Wonder, Chaka Khan, Anita Baker, Mariah Carey, Billie Holiday, Earth Wind and Fire Shining Rae with Bruce Tyler BM: Tell us about your trip to NYC to meet music industry giant Bruce Tyler. Shining Rae: I performed at R Bar NYC on Bowery 9/20/11 as a featured artist during the Tower of Song event hosted by Kelli King. It’s a well known venue for indie artists to perform and build their fan base. Meeting Mr. Bruce Tyler has been one of the most exciting and enlightening experiences of my life. He was so down-to-earth and wise. I found it heartwarming to be able to share my love of music with Mr. Tyler because I could tell that his thoughts and advice were coming from a sincerely good place in his heart. The biggest compliment I received was when Mr. Tyler compared my diverse sound and musicianship to Alicia Keys, an artist he helped develop. It was so amazing to know that my music is comparable to a major artist and just unique enough to set me apart. Nothing can compare to the moment I looked out into the audience during my performance and watched my mom, my friends, Bruce Tyler, along with Colin and Alex from Ourstage.com smiling back at me. It felt surreal. Now that the dreams I’ve had as a little girl have started to manifest themselves in my life, I have all the validation I need to see that I’m on the right path. BM: So what’s next for Shining Rae? Shining Rae: As of August 28, 2011 I released my newest single “Sugar.” It’s available digitally on Itunes, AmazonMP3, Rhapsody, etc. I’m currently promoting “Sugar” to local radio stations and planning my 2nd college tour. I’m currently open for bookings as I work to increase my fan base nationwide. BM: Please tell us about any upcoming projects you’d like to share. Shining Rae: I am looking for the next “Shining Rae’s Shining Star of Tomorrow” for October/November. Shining Rae’s “Shining Stars” mission is to encourage youth and successful adults to “Give Back to help others Move Forward” and make positive moves to help others enjoy the best quality of life possible. Quarterly www.shiningrae.com features one young person, age 12 and up, that is actively making a positive impact on the world. Anyone can submit pictures and inspirational stories to my website for consideration. Shining Rae College Tour feat. Bobby Boondocks BM: If there was one strong piece of advice you could give to other aspiring artists what would it be? Shining Rae: The most powerful poem and autobiography I read as a child came from a distant relative and favorite author of mine, Dr. Maya Angelou. At the very end of her poem “I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings,” she describes how “a caged bird stands on the grave of dreams.” I always personified that songbird as myself. That is why I fearlessly sing my songs of life, love, hope, and inspiration. When you truly find yourself and know your purpose, never take the words “no” or “Impossible” for an answer. With this mentality I believe success is inevitable. A long time ago I decided to tear down walls of “no” to live the “impossible.”
Shannin Watkins, an up and coming music artist known as Shining Rae, recently visited the Ruston campus of Louisiana United Methodist Children and Family Services (also known as the Louisiana Methodist Children’s Home or LMCH).
Ah, May. The sun is out, the birds are singing and we find ourselves yearning for plucky acoustic tunes from sweet but sassy singer-songwriters. (That happens to everyone, right?) Luckily, we have Shining Rae and her summery track “Dreaming,” to both satisfy our craving and provide us with an anthem to help survive bad dates. Because what could make you feel better than hearing someone else’s terrible dating stories? Shining Rae’s first date with this unnamed gentleman doesn’t go so well. He shows up with pink roses (typical) and our girl isn’t impressed. “I want more than your cheap thrill/Spare me with the silly frills/Impress me with originality.” Maybe you think she’s being demanding, but Rae isn’t totally heartless—she just knows what she wants! She even decides to give her guy another chance, but unfortunately date number 2 doesn’t go much better. “Next date you’re driving a CLK/You didn’t even open my door, that is not okay.” We have to side with Shining Rae—chivalry isn’t quite dead yet. Of course, this mystery man does have a few redeeming qualities. “Your kiss, your hug, your smile/entertain me for a little while,” Rae sings. But alas, this relationship is not meant to be, and Shining Rae decides to let him down easy. “You’re not Mr. Right/So I’ve got to let you go.” We can’t fault her for kicking this guy to the curb, with that warm, sugary voice of hers it’s hard to imagine she would do anything without good reason. “A sweet girl with a heart of gold should be treated like the princess that she is,” Shining Rae states on her profile, and we couldn’t agree more. You go, girl! Check out “Dreaming” below and unleash your inner diva.
Shannin Watkins has been featured in the May 4 issue of OurStage Magazine. Her stage name is "Shining Rae." She is a 2002 honor graduate of Magnolia High School and a 2006 honor graduate of Louisiana Tech University. She is the daughter of Tyree and Joycelyn Watkins of Magnolia.
As the Grand Prize winner in the Ourstage Artist Access Competition (an MTV partner) in July, Shining Rae’s hit song, “Dreaming,” has landed her an opportunity to perform live in New York City and to meet music industry giant Bruce Tyler, a former executive vice-president of both Sony Music and Columbia Records who serves as advisor to some of the most influential artists and companies in the world. Shining Rae was born Shannin Watkins and went to school in Magnolia. An extremely gifted student, she was an honor graduate of both Magnolia High School in 2002 and ...
ON STAGE: Shining Rae performs at Afterthought in Little Rock during ‘Acoustic Night’ Wednesday. Rae is a semifinalist in the 2012 Arkansas Times Musicians Showcase. ASHLEY WHITELAW Banner-News Twenty of Arkansas' great musical acts will face off in the 2012 Arkansas Times Musicians Showcase, and among them will be Magnolia's own Shannin Watkins, also known by her stage name, Shining Rae. The lineup was extended from 16 semifinalists to 20 semifinalists due to the large number of bands entering the showcase this year. Each night, four semifinalists will play a 30-minute set of original material for five judges. The judges are looking for musicianship, originality, song writing quality and showmanship. Points are also awa... Log-In to view full story or view our Registration Guide.
Magnolia native Shannin Watkins, who performs as Shinging Rae, wowed the judges and crowd last night with her mix of singer/songwriter chops and pure pop ear candy. Judge Clay Fitzpatrick noted her strong singing and onstage confidence. "She seemed happy and at home on stage. She sang to me and I blushed," he noted. Guest judge Mary Chamberlin "loved her polite demand for honesty and respect in/from relationships in her songs. Nice break from less empowered pop/R&B songs.
Technical Requirements
Mic Stand, 3 vocal mics, 2 Monitors, Guitar amp, Space for keyboard player, piano or space for one. extra plug-ins for engineering equipment (sound effects etc.)
Technical Requirements
Mic Stand, 3 vocal mics, 2 Monitors, Guitar amp, Space for keyboard player, piano or space for one. extra plug-ins for engineering equipment (sound effects etc.)
