Meet Shalaka | Artist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Shalaka and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Shalaka, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
I pursued an artistic and creative career because it’s the most natural extension of who I am. Growing up surrounded by music and creativity, I always felt deeply connected to the arts. It’s where I feel most alive and able to express myself fully—whether through writing lyrics, producing music, or performing.

My journey started in Mumbai, where I was inspired by a vibrant cultural background, and it led me to pursue formal training in vocal performance and music production. Creating art is my way of making sense of the world and sharing emotions that are often hard to put into words. I thrive on connecting with people through my work, especially when it resonates deeply with their experiences. It’s not just a career for me; it’s a calling that allows me to live authentically and contribute something meaningful to the world.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My art is a blend of indie-pop with rich emotional depth and a focus on storytelling. I like to describe my work as introspective, emotionally charged, and unapologetically raw. What sets me apart is my ability to weave vulnerability and mythological imagery into my lyrics, creating songs that feel timeless yet deeply personal. My music often explores themes of connection, identity, and the tension between longing and self-discovery, which I think resonates with listeners on a universal level.

One of the things I’m most proud of is how I’ve developed my sound by blending strong melodic hooks with poetic, thought-provoking lyrics. My approach is rooted in crafting songs that evoke emotion while still feeling relatable and authentic. It’s all about creating music that listeners can connect with on a deeper level.

Getting to where I am today professionally hasn’t been easy—it’s been a journey of perseverance and constant learning. As someone who grew up in Mumbai and then moved to Los Angeles, I’ve had to navigate different worlds, both personally and professionally. The challenges included moments of self-doubt, financial constraints, and finding my artistic identity in a sea of talented creators. Overcoming those hurdles meant leaning into my support system, staying open to growth, and never losing sight of why I started in the first place.

One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that authenticity always wins. Early on, I felt pressure to conform to trends or fit into a specific mold, but I’ve realized that my strength lies in being myself—telling my story in my own voice. Another lesson is the importance of patience. Growth doesn’t happen overnight, and the moments of struggle often lead to the most profound breakthroughs.

What I want the world to know about me and my story is that I’m not just here to create music—I’m here to create meaning. My art is about connection, not just entertainment. Whether through my lyrics, melodies, or performances, I hope to make people feel seen, heard, and inspired to explore their own emotions. My brand is about storytelling that bridges emotions and experiences, and I hope it leaves a lasting impact on everyone who listens.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If my best friend were visiting Los Angeles, I’d make sure they had an unforgettable time exploring the city’s best spots. We’d kick things off with breakfast at République, known for its incredible pastries and vibrant ambiance, before heading to Griffith Observatory for breathtaking views of the city and a quick hike through the scenic trails. A visit to the Academy Museum would follow. For lunch, we’d stop at Grand Central Market, sampling everything from tacos to artisanal ice cream. In the evening, we’d explore Venice Beach, watching the street performers and soaking in the quirky vibe before grabbing dinner at Gjelina. No trip to LA would be complete without rooftop cocktails at Perch, where the downtown skyline serves as the perfect backdrop. Throughout the week, we’d mix iconic spots like the Santa Monica Pier and the Hollywood Bowl with hidden gems like the Museum of Jurassic Technology and sunset views at El Matador Beach in Malibu. It’s all about showing them the energy and diversity that make LA such an incredible city.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
There are so many people and influences that deserve recognition in my story, but my biggest shoutout goes to my parents. Their unwavering belief in me and the values they instilled have been the foundation for everything I’ve achieved. They worked so hard to give me opportunities, and their support has been my constant source of strength.

I also want to recognize the Musicians Institute in Los Angeles. The incredible faculty and community there shaped my artistry and gave me the tools and confidence to pursue this career. My vocal teachers, and my mentor, Carolann, were especially influential. They pushed me to take risks and encouraged me every step of the way.

Finally, I want to give a special shoutout to my collaborator, Kevin Pohore, who has been an a great creative partner on the song X-Ray Machine. Also Sid Talwar who is a a wonderful music engineer and worked on the song as well.

Im grateful for these people and experiences that have been pivotal in shaping who I am, and I carry their influence with gratitude every day.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shalaka______/profilecard/?igsh=MWQ1ZGUxMzBkMA==

Youtube: https://youtube.com/@shalaka.official?si=bpV04KEmgxooIKZz