Quick Facts
Biography
Shawn "J.Epic" Emanuel is a British R&B, Soul, Pop singer-songwriter producer from West London’s Notting Hill Gate.
Biography
Early years
Shawn was born in London on the 5th January in South London’s St Thomas’ Hospital. Although he was born in South London, Shawn grew up in West London with his mother. His father is a reggae artist who recorded under the name Dixie Peach for the London-based record label Jah Tubby's. Shawn is the second oldest, of 4 siblings. His musical influences are Stevie Wonder and Michael Jackson.
“Even at a very young age, he was always intrigued with music. Before attending Primary School, he was caught several times on a small keyboard imitating Stevie Wonder.”
While attending Fox Primary School in West London, his mother sent him to Piano lessons once a week to nurture his passion for music. He also learned to play the Cello and attended the Centre for Young Musicians Weekend College in his early teens.
Shawn was a student at The Brit School for performing arts. His passion for the stage was enhanced by his extra-curricular studies as a Sound and Lighting technician. Shawn also attended Westminster Theatre Arts and was a member of Sabrina Guinness’s YCTV.
Early career
Shawn cycled through a few boy bands before deciding to try it solo. He was then given the opportunity to tour with singer Kelly Rowland as an opening act for her Simply Deeper Tour by Mean Fiddler Director/Promoter Rob Hallettand went later on to support Beyoncé Knowles for the European part of her Dangerously in Love Tour. He was also one of the opening acts on the European leg of Destiny's Child's Destiny Fulfilled ... And Lovin' It tour. Soon after Shawn was invited by rapper Kanye West to join the Late Registration tour with fellow support act Keyshia Cole. Other tours include the Sugababes Taller in more ways tour, Jagged Edge and Missy Elliott.
DreamWorld Era
In May 2004 Shawn Signed a 5 album deal with EMI. His album with EMI was titled "Dreamworld". The album was recorded in the old school Motown style, which included recording live vocals on tape and not digitally. His First single "Slow it Down", produced by Dan Carey (Music) was released on 29 May 2006 and his second single "U Better Believe it" was released on 16 October 2006. All tracks were mixed by multi-Grammy Award winner, Tom Elmhirst; noted for his work with British singer's Adele and Amy Winehouse. His "Dreamworld" album was not released due to his departure from EMI in 2007.
Discography
Singles
- "Slow It Down" (29 May 2006)
- "U Better Believe" featuring Malik Yusef (16 October 2006)