Shawanda has always known that singing in the choir, and occasional solos were only the beginning of her musical journey. Growing up as the daughter of a pastor; at the early age of 5 she led her first song with the Mount Olivet Church Of God In Christ Sanctuary choir. This opportunity allowed for everyone to see the gift of music that was placed in Shawanda. Throughout elementary and junior high school she made it a point to let others know she had a real love for music. After beginning high school she was determined to go all the way as a singer. At Wright State University where Shawanda attended college, she auditioned for a campus choir; The Paul Lawrence Dunbar Chorale. It is through that chorus that she gained knowledge of sight reading and proper breathing techniques as well as foreign language music.
During her third year of college Shawanda decided to take a great step of faith to become a solo artist. She shares her story musically on being adopted at 8 months, and married at age 18, her relationship with God and seeing His true love and faithfulness through those obstacles. Shawanda continues to push down the musical path and with doing so she's had the honor of singing background for musical greats such as Dr. Joe Pace, and Rodnie Bryant and others. In addition she has shared the stage in ministry with Sanctus Real, Dorinda Clark-Cole, Judith McAllister, and Jonathan McReynolds to name a few. In the midst of all the opportunities experienced, daily; she does her best to remain humble and to keep God at the forefront of the ministry and gifts that He's given.
Shawanda is married to William Smith Jr. and together have 5 children, Will III, Kennedi, Morgen, Sir Miles and Sidney.