Singer Songwriter
We selected Shane Guerrette as our first “Spotlight” performer based on his unique style, undeniable commitment to music, silky comforting vocals and genuine love for his guitar and creating music that helps others. Shane Guerrette is a 17-year-old indie pop performer from New York. The Young Performers Club first met Shane and his brother Brandon at the Music On & Up Showcase qualifier in October 2013. His passion traveled throughout the audience and the room was completely still creating a natural spotlight on him and his guitar. When the audience feels the passion they are listening to a true star! Patty Duffey, Director of the Music On & Up program, commented following the judges selections, that Shane would be spotted very soon by some industry labels based on how he effortlessly stands out. He has an impressive 1.5 million views on YouTube on just fifteen videos posted, and he has 39,000 subscribers.
In 2014 Shane participated as a guest presenter and performer in the Real Deal Workshop, sponsored by Strega Entertainment and the Young Performers Club.
How long have you been performing and practicing music?
I started performing more seriously when I was fourteen, but have been singing my whole life. It has mostly been in my room.
When did you and Brandon start performing together?
Last summer we started creating music together. Brandon was a Berklee School of Music student focusing on drums. I discovered how much his drums add to my music so it has been a great for both of our music careers.
Where do you train?
I take lessons with Mike Ward and have to say he is the best teacher I have ever had.
How long have you been writing music?
I started the previous summer and had a goal of writing ten songs. I have eight fully completed and two almost there. I play for hours when I am creating music and love coming up with edgy cool melodies. Then I add in the lyrics. I write about anything from having a bad day to having a good day. I don’t write songs they write me!
What artists have been your biggest inspiration?
- John Mayer because he is a phenomenal guitar player
- Ed Sheeran
- Bruno Mars
- Cold Play
- U2’s Bono
What are your top music goals?
Get an album out on iTunes, tour around the country, and then tour around the world.
Your hair is much talked about. What inspires your style?
I have a lot of hair so I just let it do its thing and be crazy messy. People refer to it as “flow”. I don’t want to look like other artists and like having my own look.
Your YouTube channel with over 200,000 views is impressive. What helps drive your numbers?
Staying current with popular covers and frequently posting new songs. I make sure my performances are real and like taping in my home the best.
What has been your major accomplishment?
I just signed a management contract with SRP Music. They saw me on iTunes and asked me to meet with them at their NYC offices. My album will be a collaborative effort with SRP helping co-write songs, writing songs for me and working with my originals. The idea is to find the songs that will be hits.
What is your favorite cover?
Sweater Weather by The neighborhood
What advice do you have for artists starting out?
Play honestly, keep on playing, post your songs on YouTube, learn from negative comments, take risks, learn what you are doing wrong, stay positive all the way along, and learn ways to improve.
What was your favorite gig?
A Make-A-Wish event in NYC. It was a star like moment with a cool light show, huge stage and amazing backdrop. It felt like a legit concert.
What social channels are you on and do you recommend?
YouTube, Reverbnation, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram
What is your favorite original?
“Lock and Key”. It is about how the lock and key can’t be separated to work
How often do you practice?
Every day! I can play guitar for hours in my room. It is a lifestyle. I am always in my room playing
How is it working with your brother Brandon at shows?
He brings my music to a whole new level and makes my songs ten times better. He is great on the spot on flows with the song. He works hard and had been studying at Berklee for two years.
We wish Shane luck with his new management company, and look forward to his first album release. Shane is a finalist in the Young Performers Grand Finale taking place at the Boston Hard Rock Cafe on April 4, 2015.