Where are you from?

Shavana: I am from the captivating landscapes of Europe, particularly Norway, a land graced by the mesmerizing dance of the northern lights and the serene embrace of mountains and rivers. My birthname is Jeanette Skipperstøen and I was born on March 8, 1985, coincidentally on International Women’s Day. I emerged into this world as a very sensitive and imaginative soul.

In my earliest memories, I recall gazing up at the stars and sensing a profound yearning, as if I didn’t quite belong here, but rather felt drawn to something beyond, out there in the vast expanse of the universe. However, through the transformative journey of my musical exploration, particularly within the Shavana Miracles project, and my spiritual practice of meditation, where I consciously shifted my focus of energy from my mind to my heart, I began to feel a deeper sense of belonging, not only to the cosmos but also to the earthly realm.

How long have you been making music?

Music has been a part of my essence since the tender age of four. Growing up in a household where Melodies were the language of the soul, my parents, both singers, instilled in me a deep connection with music. My roots trace back to my grandfather, a poet who serenaded nature with Norwegian songs, while my mother composed melodies that danced with his verses. At the age of 13, I penned my first songs, “Afraid of Love” and “Be Yourself,” drawn from the complex emotions of navigating love’s vast ocean while fearing losing oneself in its depths.

This album has been a labor of love spanning over seven profound years. Within this span, life has presented me with myriad experiences—from undergoing surgeries to embracing the boundless joys of motherhood, from advocating for human rights in Norway to nurturing the seeds of entrepreneurship. Each twist and turn have enriched the tapestry of my journey, infusing this album with the depth of my soul’s evolution.

Who are the musicians involved in your project?

I’ve been blessed to collaborate with souls whose instrumental melodies resonate with the heartbeat of the universe. Among them, Dev Lama, a Nepali flute player, and Olga Kivaeva, a violin virtuoso, have lent their ethereal talents both in studio sessions and on stages at concerts and festivals. Alongside them, I’ve been graced by the enchanting melodies of flutists like Ken Roulette and Sangre Ancestral, as well as the soulful piano chords and arrangements by producer Ketil Schei and the intricate guitar harmonies of Erik Norheim. Together, this eclectic ensemble weaves a cultural mosaic, harmonizing the ancient melodies of Celtic tradition with the rhythms of African soil.

The title “Miracles” pays homage to my dear friend and soul brother, Hans Erik Dyvik Husby, known as Hank Von Hell, who now dances among the stars. Before departing this earthly realm, Hank tirelessly championed the cause of higher consciousness, sowing seeds of enlightenment for future generations.

Who are your biggest musical influences?

My musical journey finds its roots in the melodic lullabies of my parents, who serenaded my childhood with their soulful voices at home and on stage. They are my role models and have always been there for me. I remember I bought the albums of: Shania Twain and Celine Dion in my youth and I loved to sing their songs. When I got older, I’ve been captivated by the mystical allure of Celtic Irish melodies and the rhythmic heartbeat of African drums. My time in Namibia, where I immersed myself in its rich cultural tapestry while teaching music, profoundly influenced my musical palate. My academic exploration culminated in a thesis on “Higher Consciousness Through Cultural Encounters,” underscoring the transformative power of intercultural dialogue.

What is your greatest non-musical influence and vision?

My vision transcends mere melodies; it seeks to elevate humanity through the transcendental power of music. Nature, with its timeless wisdom, serves as my guiding light, while children embody the purest essence of hope and resilience. Their unwavering spirit fuels my resolve to tirelessly advocate for a world in which justice and harmony reign supreme.

What inspired you to create this project?

At the heart of this Shavana “Miracles” project lies a fervent desire to craft a sanctuary of harmony and healing, where the voices of children, the whispers of nature, the cultural instruments and the universal language of music converge. With each note, I aspire to kindle the flames of compassion and ignite a revolution of love and freedom. When I write music my intention is to create music to help people travel: “From head to heart”. The world can look dark and materialistic but I believe in Miracles and I believe that we, as humankind, are ready for a change.

What are your plans for the future (musically)?

I`ve given out two singles: Pray for Love and Freedance and there are more songs waiting to be shared. A new music video is on the horizon. For those seeking to attune their spirits to higher frequencies and bask in the serenity of inner peace, my album from 2014 “Time to Shine” which I made together with Vihanga, offering a gateway to transcendence and self-discovery.

Is there anything else you would like to say?

You’re invited to experience the ethereal landscapes of my musical realm through music videos like “Pray for Love” and “Freedance,” available on Shavana – Music from the Soul – YouTube channel. Furthermore, I urge you to embark on a sonic voyage through the realms of my upcoming album, “Miracles,” now streaming on Shavana Spotify.

As you traverse the notes and pathways of my musical universe, may you find solace in the embrace of each note, and may the harmonies of my soul echo within your heart. I hope that my latest single and music video, “Freedance,” will serve as a reminder that your body is indeed a sacred temple. Even amidst the shadows that may envelop the world around you, never underestimate the transformative power of dance.