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Shannon Walsh was born in New Glasgow, Nova Scotia, and raised in nearby Westville. Though she sang constantly around the house with her family, she was more interested in competitive sports as a young girl, playing basketball, ringette, softball, soccer and hockey.  She began singing solos in church choirs at the age of seven, and eventually would be asked to sing for school concerts and local fundraisers in the community. She grew up listening to a variety of different styles of music, such as old time Rock and Roll and songs from the 50’s and 60’s as well as R&B, country and, in her teen years, more pop music. Among the many artists who have influenced her are Karen Carpenter, Crystal Gayle, Céline Dion, Amy Grant, CeCe Winans, Brian McKnight, and James Taylor. She began to focus on singing when she was 14, when asked to perform as a soloist at a wedding. This was a turning point, realizing she could make a career out of doing something she loved.

She soon began to write, mostly poems, with songwriting to follow later on during her university days at St. Francis Xavier, in Antigonish (1993-1996). She discovered a love of theatre in her third year at St. F.X., performing the role of Eva Peron in the musical Evita, directed by Cliff LeJeune. During her years at X, she had the opportunity to open for Jean Vanier and the late Henri Nouwen. Other acts that she has opened for include The Cottars, Amy Sky, John Gracie and Christian recording artist, Janelle.  She has performed at the New Glasgow Riverfront Jubilee (2004, 2005 and 2006) and shared in the line up with great Canadian talents like Gary Beals, The Rankin Sisters, Crush and The Stampeders.

Shannon’s first CD, In the Beginning, was released in 2003, followed by her Christmas CD in December 2004.  Her latest CD entitled I Believe, is closest to her heart. Gospel music always has been, and will always be, a big part of her life. She grew up listening to her Mom and her brothers and sisters singing the old hymns and spiritual songs that were passed down to them from their parents. The message of this music truly encourages and moves her. Her prayer is that it will do the same for you.