Biography
Shawan Rice is a soulful singer-songwriter originally from Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, who began her musical journey at just 13 years old.[2] Raised in the quiet landscapes of Central Pennsylvania, she developed an eclectic musical style drawing from deep roots in Black American music, influenced by artists ranging from Jimi Hendrix to Erykah Badu.[2][3] She began performing live in 2008 and continued playing locally throughout Pennsylvania while releasing music.[4]
Rice eventually relocated to New Orleans, where she has called home for the past eight years as of 2024.[5] In the vibrant music scene of New Orleans, she transitioned from local performances to busking, establishing herself as a captivating live performer.[4] Her music blends blues, R&B, and folk elements, characterized by a distinctive raspy, expressive vocal quality that conveys emotional depth.[6][7] Rice made her Jazz Fest debut, marking a significant milestone in her career as a rising artist in the contemporary soul music landscape.[5]
Fun Facts
- Shawan began writing music at just 13 years old, demonstrating early musical talent and dedication to songwriting.[2]
- Her voice has been described as possessing a raspy, expressive quality that conveys the emotional depth of someone with decades of life experience, despite her relative youth in the music industry.[7]
- She transitioned from local Pennsylvania performances to becoming a busker in New Orleans, earning her living through street performances before achieving wider recognition.[4]
- Her music incorporates an eclectic blend of blues, R&B, folk, and soul influences, creating a distinctive sound rooted in Black American musical traditions.[1][6]
Associated Acts
- Shawan and Friends - eponymous, lead vocals, original, principal (2017–present)
- Shawan and Friends - eponymous, guitar, original, principal (2017–present)
- Shawan and the Wonton - eponymous, lead vocals, original, principal
- Shawan and the Wonton - eponymous, guitar, original, principal
Musical Connections
Mentors/Influences
- Jimi Hendrix - Stylistic influence on her musical development (General influence on her eclectic sound) [Formative years (started writing at age 13)]
- Erykah Badu - Stylistic influence on her musical development (General influence on her soul and R&B approach) [Formative years (started writing at age 13)]
Key Collaborators
- The Wonton - Band collaboration (Shawan and The Wonton) [Active period (specific dates not provided in sources)]
Connection Network
External Links
- Spotify
- [Wikipedia](Not found in search results)
- MusicBrainz
References
Heard on WWOZ
Shawan Rice has been played 1 time on WWOZ 90.7 FM, New Orleans' jazz and heritage station.
| Date | Time | Title | Show | Spotify |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dec 29, 2025 | 22:58 | Fever Dreams | Kitchen Sinkw/ Derrick Freeman |