Entering the Christian Music scene in 2017 with her debut single, “In A New Way”, Shanta Fuentes continually paves her path as a rising figure in Christian music. Shanta's sound is a solid blend of gospel, pop, jazz, and alternative rock. Some other artists that are in the same lane as Shanta include Tori Kelly, Hillsong Worship and Casey J. “The Akademia Music” organization in Los Angeles, California awarded Shanta “Best Christian/Gospel”song.
A charming and soft piano melody introduces us to the start of the track, “In A New Way”. Fuentes vocals are quite unique sounding and are soft and airy. A backing band accumulates the build up of the song into the gentle chorus repeating, “In A New Way”. A touching worship song that will get you in your feels. As the song continues we notice a more upbeat appeal that continues to grow. Shanta’s voice is absolutely beautiful and will give you chills as she sings her praise. Although her vocals are soft they are still simultaneously strong while emphasizing the important lyrics in the song. This song balances on the genre of contemporary Christian music that will give an appeal to different walks of adulthood.
Listen to "In A New Way" here, and learn more about Shanta in our interview below!
Care to introduce yourself to our readers?
Hi everyone, My name is Shanta Fuentes! I am an independent Contemporary Christian Artist and Songwriter from Brooklyn, New York
Can you give us a brief history of your musical career?
I began singing and writing songs at age 6!
My father sings and my mother was a professional dancer.
I went to Performing Arts Middle School and Highschool, where I learned classical music. I was one of the lead singers in the youth choir / ministry at my church from age 12-16. We also toured the US and Canada during Summers.
I was discovered at an open mic by a famous Pop Music producer and introduced to the music industry also at age 16. I learned how to write pop songs and record vocals and music professionally. We wrote many songs together, some of which are being played in Europe. Worked with various other music producers and performed throughout NYC. But unfortunately did not land a major recording contract.
After that devastating period in my life , I stopped singing and writing for 7 years. Then God began speaking to my heart and called me back to singing.
How did you come up with your name?
Shanta is my real name.
Is there a meaning behind it?
I think in French it means song or to sing.
Do you write your own music?
Yes, I write my own song lyrics and Keyboard melodies.
Can you tell us a bit about your writing style?
I love to write about real life experiences. I find that with Christian music the words are often inspired by the Holy Spirit. It's a beautiful thing.
We’re really into your new song "In a New Way"! Can you tell us a bit about it?
Its my declaration to God that I needed Him to fill my life a fresh because I am not the person I was before and never will be again.
Where did the inspiration behind the song come from?
"In a new way" came out of a true supernatural moment and release. After my 7 year hiatus from music , I rededicated my life to Jesus. I was delivered from depression and many entanglements of the enemy. A few months later I attended a Worship concert featuring William McDowell. That night I believe that there was a special anointing imparted to me. When I went home I picked up my keyboard for the first time in years and composed the entire song with lyrics completely by myself. It was magical, like the prodigal child returning home.
What are three things you’d love your fans to know about you?
I love God, I love people and I want help touch lives for the Lord.
Any upcoming shows?
Working on some upcoming events this Spring.
For someone who hasn’t seen you live yet, how would you describe your performance?
Lively, interactive and passionate.
What’s next for you?
Working on putting out and EP.
Connect with Shanta: