EXCLUSIVE: Shira Interview

Stage Right Secrets spoke with singer-songwriter, Shira on her new EP, Birds of a Feather. Read our exclusive Q&A below.

What is something you wish someone had told you while growing up and finding yourself?

Shira: Aim high, then aim higher, but never let perfectionism lead the way. The beauty of life is in the mess.

How did you cope when you were separated from your fiancé for so long?

Shira: Honestly, the thing that was keeping our heads above the water was each other. Even though we were physically apart for almost six months, we spent a lot of time together. We had video chat dance parties, workouts and dates, and every night we would sing lullabies to each other and say five things that we’re grateful for. On really bad days, finding five things to say thank you for is truly healing.

I feel that “Go Uncharted” could have a double meaning; not only of traveling and moving on from one’s home, but to moving on from troubles within oneself and moving forward from darkness. Was this intentional?

Shira: Definitely… Good catch! I find traveling and touring to be especially eye-opening. All the things that seemed so complicated and menacing in my little apartment suddenly seem so tiny on the open road.

You say you wrote these songs while you were single. “Wait For Me” is literally the most perfect song that describes your reuniting with your fiancé. I find that so beautiful. In a way, do you feel that you almost foretold your own story with the writing of this song? The music video is lovely by the way, I was really moved. 

Shira: Thank you so much. Your question gave me chills. Honestly, I feel as if the whole EP and the upcoming album was a magic eight-ball reading of what was about to come. In a way, I feel as if the songs were coming through me, but I didn’t fully understand them until I met my fiancé.

What inspired the songs on this EP? 

Shira: As you mentioned, I wrote them when I was single. REALLY single. For a few good years. I had come to a point where I decided truly and deeply that I would not settle for anything less than that big love. A lot of these songs describe how I wanted to feel when I met my person. The world kept telling me I was aiming too high and I refused to buy into that. What helped is that I don’t mind being alone. I actually enjoy my own company, most of the time haha 😉

Can you describe fairy-folk in your own words? 

Shira: I love that you asked that. It’s folk with a bit of fairy dust. Leaving you empowered, loved, and maybe with your heart a bit lighter.

How did your time in the Israeli Army Band affect you both as a person and as a musician?

Shira: I think it is the base of all of my artistic expression. When I was in the Israeli Army Band I performed in front of soldiers and citizens living in war zones. I saw how music and performances transported them in an instant to another emotional space and helped cope with whatever they were feeling. That experience solidified that this is what I choose to do with my time here on earth.

What is a piece of advice you would give to a young person growing up in 2020?

Shira: Do what you love and love what you do. Then use it to give back to others. On a micro level or a macro level, it doesn’t matter. Just do it. Everyday.

Overall, I really love your EP. The lyrics are incredibly moving and empowering. I am so excited for the rest of the world to hear your songs.

Shira: THANK YOU!!!!!!! Loved your questions!!!

You can watch Shira’s latest music video for “Wait for Me” here and listen to her EP here.