Shaunell McKenzie

 


Shaunelle was born to Hazel-Ann McKenzie and local calypsonian, former National and Winwards cricketer and former National footballer, Gosnel Cupid.  She started singing in 1993 when she entered the Junior Calypso competition representing her primary school, the Calliaqua Anglican Primary School.  Shaunelle won her first hat trick, 1993 to 1995.  In 2000 she competed for her Secondary school The Joseph’s Convent Kingstown and won.  In 2001 and 2002 she had to settle for 3rd position in the secondary schools category.  In 2003, Shaunelle continued her winning ways until her schooling was completed at the tertiary level in 2002.  That brought her total winnings to eight.  Breaking the Mighty Sheller’s record of seven crowns.  Shaunelle also placed second at the OECS Junior Calypso competition in St Kitts in 2001
In 2002, shaunelle started singing with the band New Direction out of Bequia.  This was where she began her career with electronic bands.  She later joined the band Blaksand alongside Bomani and Maddzart.   She produced hits such as Hot & Crazy, Don’t Fraid de bumper, Lean on me, Is only , We don’t like we and many more.

Currently Shaunelle is Part Owner of the musical band ‘HS phaktor’.  She hopes that with the help of her partners she can bring the music of SVG and soca music to a whole new level.  She is also a full time employee of The Mustique Company as a Junior Accountant.  Shaunelle has performed in many countries including BVI, USVI, USA, Canada, England, Grenada, St Kitts and Barbados.  She is now the newest member of the Lime Soca Dans.
In 2012 Shaunelle is being honored alongside Allison Hinds, Calypso Rose, Singing Sandra, and Destra Garcia, by the University of the West Indies, Cave Hill Campus, Institute of Gender Studies for her contribution to Soca and Calypso in the Caribbean. 

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