We had the good fortune of connecting with Sheldon Johnson and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Sheldon, what matters most to you?
Authenticity is a word that I keep very prevalent in my life. I see many people conform to their environment and sway away from being their true selves, and I can’t stand the thought of being like another person. I was born as a unique individual and I will remain unique as long as I am alive. The way I think, the way I make music, and the way I generally move about life is naturally different so I try to remain that way, despite the strong influences that may be around me. I can’t say that I don’t pick up traits from other people or societies, but I can say that I try my best to be self aware and realize when I’m behaving in a way that is not true to who I am. Growing up, I tried to be someone who did everything “correctly” and I wanted to be liked by everyone, but I now realize that living to be liked is not living at all. I do the things that I want to do and make decisions within the boundaries I set for myself and without impeding on the lives of others. Being who I truly am and doing the things that make me happy has been so much more beneficial for my mental health and creativity, and I must continue on this path of being authentic.
Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I am so proud of my newfound ability to create different energies, vibes, and emotions in my songs. After hearing two different songs of mine, many people don’t even realize it’s still me. It took me a long time to develop my diversity in music, but I pride myself on how I’m able to hit different angles of life in a creative way. It’s never easy trying to reach a goal, especially when most people tell you how bad you are or how ineffective your methods are. It’s hard getting past negative comments and naysayers. If there’s one thing I learned though, it’s to focus on the critiques and adjust for the better, without allowing the negative aspect of feedback to be mentally cringing. Instead of being upset, I had to look at my music from the perspective of my fans. While still remaining authentic, I adjusted and got better at writing. Now, I make undoubtedly great music and no one can tell me otherwise. All I can do is move forward and continue to get better at my craft. The world should know that LBS (pounds) WILL change the creative world somehow and someway. Just wait for the day you hear my name ringing amongst the people! PLUR
If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Considering the fact that I live in Lawton, Ok, I have a few spots I’d definitely take my friends if they came to visit for a week. To start, we’d definitely have to eat at Thai Bistro. It’s a very tranquil environment in the restaurant and the food is absolutely amazing. On weekday nights, we’d hit up various bars to play some pool, like at “Roosters,” “Fubar,” and “guitar bar.” On the weekend, we’d have to grub some American food at bricktown brewery and after that, pool and drinks at reddirt for a few hours. That’s the pregame spot that many people go to. And after, around 11pm, might have to do some dancing at CW Scooters. That’s only if reddirt isn’t already a vibe for the night. But at least one night, maybe two, I’d have to take them to OKC to experience the various food options, daytime bars, and nightlife. FASSLER HALL is a dope daytime drinking place to chill at and meet people, and for nighttime festivities, clubs Bloom or One15 are the spots to go! Sunday brunch is always at “Parlor OKC” because they have 5 or 6 different kitchens to choose food from. And we can even go out and chill on Sunday throughout the day and night at places like coyote ugly, updown(a dope arcade), or just ride scooters around the city until we see something interesting. OKC is an exciting spot to go!
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?
Shoutout to my friends from West Point who saw the beginning of my path to becoming a music artist and are still here supporting the grind today! You have no idea how much it means to me that y’all are still rocking with me. We all know how “butt-cheeks” my music was at the beginning. Haha but y’all have watched me grow and become a better song writer and gave me the constructive criticism and push I needed to keep going! Cheers to y’all!!!
Website: http://linktr.ee/onlylbs
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/onlylbs_/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LBSonly
Youtube: https://youtube.com/channel/UCDaFcC2VFT6muAUNdUFaRrw
Image Credits
Dana Dane David Allen