Shayna Steele
Saturday, June 28 @ Rio Grande VIP Tent
BUY VIP TICKETS | BUY GA TICKETS
Shayna Steele is a powerhouse vocalist whose dynamic range and genre-blending artistry have made her a standout figure in contemporary music. From her soulful collaborations with Snarky Puppy to her commanding presence on Broadway and international jazz stages, Steele’s journey is a testament to resilience, versatility, and passion.
Here are some compelling highlights to introduce readers to this remarkable artist.
From Military Roots to Musical Heights
Born in Sacramento and raised in Germany and Biloxi, Mississippi, Shayna Steele’s early life was shaped by her father’s Air Force career and musical influence. Her father, Bobby Steele, a participant in the USAF’s Tops in Blue program, introduced her to the stage at a young age. This foundation led her to a second-place finish on Ed McMahon’s Star Search at just 15, setting the stage for a vibrant career in performance.
A Voice That Transcends Genres
Steele’s vocal prowess spans soul, jazz, blues, and pop. Her collaborations include background vocals for icons like Rihanna, Bette Midler, and Kelly Clarkson . Her self-penned track “Gone Under” caught the attention of Snarky Puppy’s Michael League, leading to a standout performance on their Family Dinner, Volume 1, which has garnered over 2 million views on YouTube.
Broadway and Beyond
Steele’s theatrical talents shone on Broadway with roles in RENT, Jesus Christ Superstar, and as a member of The Dynamites in the original cast of Hairspray. She later reprised her role in NBC’s Hairspray Live! and made a guest appearance on HBO’s The Sopranos, showcasing her versatility as both a singer and actress.
Gotham Nights: Shayna Steele in The Penguin
In 2024, Shayna Steele expanded her artistic repertoire by appearing in HBO’s acclaimed miniseries The Penguin. Portraying a singer in two episodes, “Top Hat” and “Great or Little Thing,” Steele’s performances added a rich, musical layer to the show’s atmospheric storytelling. Her vocal talents are also featured on the series’ soundtrack, where she delivers standout renditions of “Please Tell Me Now” and “Let’s Face the Music and Dance.” These tracks showcase her ability to infuse classic songs with soulful depth, enhancing the noir ambiance of Gotham’s underworld.
Lifelong Learner and Educator
Demonstrating a commitment to growth, Steele returned to academia nearly 30 years after her initial studies, enrolling at Berklee College of Music. Balancing her studies with motherhood and a thriving career, she maintained a 3.95 GPA while crafting new music, exemplifying her dedication to her craft.
Gold Dust: A Reflective Masterpiece
Released in 2023, Steele’s fourth studio album, Gold Dust, is a culmination of two decades of artistic evolution. The album features a powerful cover of Stevie Nicks’ “Gold Dust Woman,” a jazz rendition of Cole Porter’s “You’d Be So Nice to Come Home To” with saxophonist Donny McCaslin, and original tracks like “The Bloodline,” inspired by social justice movements.
Symphony Collaborations and Global Performances
Beyond studio recordings, Steele has graced stages worldwide, performing with over 40 symphony orchestras across North America. In 2023, she debuted her solo symphony show, American Diva, with the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra, further solidifying her status as a versatile and in-demand performer.
Shayna Steele’s journey is a compelling narrative of talent, perseverance, and artistic integrity. Her ability to navigate and blend diverse musical landscapes makes her an artist worth exploring and celebrating.
Sources: Shayna Steele Official Website; Wikipedia – Shayna Steele; Greenberg Artists; Broadway World; Mississippi Symphony Orchestra Blog; Pasadena Symphony & POPS.