Shaun Ross’s remarkable emergence into the fashion industry was one like no other, establishing himself as a world-renowned model at the early age of 16 years old with albinism became his notable surfacing. His long list of accolades is photographically represented through his multiple features on highly distinguished publications including GQ, Vogue, i-D, Paper, and many more. Now having over a decade-long career in the stylized world of modeling, the famous model has decided to turn over a new leaf by dedicating the rest of his adulthood to making music.
From playing minor roles in music videos with Grammy-award nominated artists such as Beyonce, Lana Del Rey, Katy Perry, and Leona Lewis; Ross has paved a clear path to stardom as an aspiring artist with his many appearances in music-related shorts. His bi-coastal experience as a member of the House of Xtravaganza has enhanced his natural talents in dancing and entertainment.
In 2017, Ross’s debut single “Symmetry” robustly constructed his new identity as an artist with it’s soulfully-unique electronic sound. Approximately a year later, Shaun Ross released his first official music video for “Chrysalis” which visually focused on his artistic metamorphosis in areas of modeling, dancing, and until recently; music-making.
Fast forward to 2019, Shaun Ross has just completed his first music festival performance at Los Angeles’ pride. With an evident emphasis on monochromatic color, Ross presented himself on the main stage with a full band and a group of back-up dancers. He sang multiple personal tracks and even did a rendition of Cher’s “Do you believe in life after love?” Accompanied with his mother, Ross ingrained in his audience’s ears the unforgettable soulectric sounds of his upcoming album and revealed to the world that he is everything but just a model.
After his electrifying performance, Shaun Ross sat down with iHeartMedia to discuss his new image and how he is redefining what it means to be a true renaissance man.
How has having a decade-long career in modeling contributed to your cross-over in the music industry?
I feel like art is all one. For me, I noticed that about art at a very young age. My agent used to tell me I should go into acting and then I realized you could do so many things on many different platforms. I just want to do everything, I have always loved music since my parents have always had an eclectic ear for music. I grew up listening to many legends like Stevie Wonder, so I always had a keen ear for melodies. My best friends pushed me to do music heavily and I learned to be confident in my voice and that is how I transitioned myself into music.
What has being involved in several Grammy-award winning artists’ music videos taught you about being an artist and the music industry as a whole?
Go big or go home. You have to invest in yourself and believe in the product you put out, you have to do so.
What genre of music do you feel suits your identity as a musician the most?
Soultronic and (chuckles) trap witch-craft.
How does it feel to be performing at Los Angeles’ Pride?
It feels amazing to have this moment and to do this on stage with my people. I put so much into this and so many people did as well and I am really thankful for that.
What are you hoping to prove with your first music festival performance?
I am not trying to prove anything to anybody and that has always been my life motto.
What are your goals for 2019 as a model and artist? How are you going to get one step closer to achieving these goals?
As an artist to me, I just want to consistently create and be on top of things to stay relevant. I think a huge thing to me is not being afraid to create.
Finally, as a minority in the model and music industry for your physicality, sexuality, and race. What is one thing you would like your fans to know about you when they see the name Shaun Ross on stage and in magazines?
At the end of the day, you can do anything. Everything is possible and no one should limit themselves.
Photo credits - Arturo Evaristo (@artcrooks)