The “Supergirls” star shares her Bollywood dreams, global success, and the role of technology in shaping the modern music scene.
Born and raised in the scenic Crimean town of Partenit, Ukrainian artist Shadu has steadily been making waves in the global music industry. With her dynamic fusion of electronic and emotional soundscapes, Shadu’s journey from a classically trained violinist to an international music sensation is nothing short of remarkable.
Her first steps in music came early, beginning her violin studies at the age of six. After graduating with honors, Shadu initially pursued a career as a TV director in Ukraine. However, the calling of music was too strong to resist. In 2022, she launched her career with the release of her debut EP, Gravity, a five-track collection that included hits like “Gravity,” “Take Me Away,” and “Au Au.” The EP quickly rose on global retro wave charts, setting the stage for Shadu’s entrance into the international music scene.
Global Success and the Power of Music
Her next big break came in 2023 with the release of her single Apologize under a U.S. record label, bringing her music to the American audience. Soon after, her EP Babylon hit the charts in Canada, the USA, and China, earning her recognition in the global music industry. The album’s tracks, “Dancer,” “Babylon,” and “Somebody Again,” became instant favorites, showcasing Shadu’s ability to blend emotional depth with electronic rhythms.
Despite her international success, Shadu remains a frequent visitor to Dubai, a city she believes offers a unique environment for artists. “Dubai has a thriving DJ culture,” she explains. “People here truly know the essence of music. They are exposed to global trends, and that’s what makes the music scene so vibrant.”
A Bollywood Dream
While Shadu’s music thrives on international airwaves, her heart holds a special place for Bollywood. Growing up in Ukraine, Bollywood movies were a constant presence on television, captivating her with their vibrancy and grandiosity. “Bollywood movies are all about celebration. They’re bright and mesmerizing,” she says, recounting how she dreamed of becoming a Bollywood heroine as a child. “The colors, the dancing, the emotions—I laughed and cried with the characters.”
Her dream of venturing into Bollywood reflects her broad artistic ambitions, bridging the gap between Eastern and Western music cultures. Shadu’s eclectic taste is also reflected in her admiration for artists like Black Coffee and The Weeknd. “Black Coffee’s willpower and journey through hardship are truly inspiring,” she shares. “And The Weeknd’s music—it just makes me feel so good. His voice brings me to a state of catharsis.”
Music as a Universal Language
For Shadu, music transcends language barriers. “Music is a universal language,” she says. “It captures moods, experiences, and emotions. Words are just an addition to the melody.” This belief is evident in her tracks, where the emotional undertones are as significant as the lyrics, making her music accessible to listeners worldwide, regardless of language.
Shadu is also an advocate for technology in the music industry, praising its transformative role. “Thanks to modern technology, we can now create music anywhere,” she notes. “In the past, you needed an entire studio filled with equipment. Now, everything fits into a laptop. It means you can compose music on the go—whether you’re on a plane, in a car, or a hotel room.”
Creativity in the Face of Adversity
For Shadu, personal experiences, both good and bad, fuel her creativity. “I’m a very creative person, so any dramatic events in my life have always influenced my art,” she reflects. “Over time, I learned how to write not only when I feel bad but also when I feel good.” Balancing the pressures of public life while maintaining a personal creative space can be challenging, but Shadu finds solace in nature. “Walking alone in nature helps me find inspiration. Its shapes, sounds, and smells reenergize my spirit.”
Embracing Mistakes and Moving Forward
Like all artists, Shadu has faced her share of highs and lows. But rather than dwell on setbacks, she chooses to learn from them. “Mistakes are good for you because they teach you,” she says. “Only people who do nothing don’t make mistakes. Despite the errors in my life, I keep moving forward.”
As for her life story, Shadu believes it would make for an inspiring read. She already knows what she’d call her memoir: Dream On!, reflecting her personal motto and the driving force behind her musical journey.
In a world where music can sometimes feel disconnected from emotion, Shadu stands out as an artist who uses both personal experience and cutting-edge technology to connect with her audience, making her a powerful voice in the ever-evolving music industry.
