Anorexia stole some of the years this promising, creative musician could have used to hone her musical gifts. However, not to be beaten, Shannon found the music in her soul far more compelling and inspiring than the relentless persecution of starvation.
Musical Family
Shannon had the advantage of growing up in a musical family. "I grew up taking piano and mandolin lessons and my family had a bluegrass band all during my growing up years, so I often performed with them. When I was in high school I became a competitive bluegrass and jazz mandolinist, and won several national honors and awards. I thought I was going to pursue music for my career, but my eating disorder intervened, and I ended up losing my ability to play, write, and sing music for several years as I fought for my life."
The Ravages of Anorexia
Starvation severely impacts the human body. With Shannon, "Malnutrition weakened my tendons and ligaments, and similar to an athlete, my body was unable to self-repair after intensive practice sessions, so eventually I developed a bull-blown case of tendonitis and tendon synovitis which put in me hand casts for several months."
Turning the Corner
Isolation is a major dynamic in an eating disorder. Through music, Shannon was able to reconnect with herself and others, "My love for music and my desire to regain my career dreams was a huge driver - what I now call a 'key to life' in my recovery efforts. In music, I had found the 'key' to the steadfastness I would need to recover, because I wanted my music career back more than I wanted to hold on to my eating disorder. Over time, I was able to re-enter the field of music, and I began recording CDs, this time in pop music."
Creating the Companion CD
Shannon suggests that producing a CD may be likened to childbirth. "Every time I have ever recorded a CD it has almost felt like giving birth. All the planning, the preparation, the good intentions, and still having to let go in the end and accept that the finished product will be its own entity, with its own personality and its own life that will grow and surprise you through the years is a very beautiful experience. I have always enjoyed it immensely."
Criteria for the Songs
Shannon wanted the songs to capture the You Are Not Alone theme. "I put out a general call for song submissions. Each artist was asked to commit to sharing her story in the book. We wanted artists to speak out publicly about their battle or about their loved one who had suffered and help spread the word that help and hope is available.
"We listened for recording quality. And each artist had to agree to donate their song since all proceeds from sales of the You Are Not Alone series are donated to eating disorders organizations.
"I felt in the end like we achieved the perfect blend of styles to represent many different musical tastes and messages and I am really proud of every artist who has used her talents and experiences to uplift others!"
CD Review
The lyrics are hopeful, uplifting - encouraging self-acceptance/empowerment. There is a blend of styles making the collection of songs enjoyable. The listener wants to hear what the next song will be like.
These are songs of reflection, not necessarily entertainment. The CD is a pleasant addition to Roe's second book. When Shannon isn't pursuing musical endeavors, she enjoys her pet birds, walking, running, yoga, and hanging out with family and friends. She lives in Texas.
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