Today, I’m joined by the incredibly talented Timeka Shaunail — a dynamic gospel artist, actress, drummer, and producer whose passion for creativity and faith shines through everything she does. Let’s dive into her journey, her music, and what drives her purpose.
Marie: Upon my research, I saw that you’ve said gospel music became your path in 2012. But you’ve been playing drums much longer than that, right?
Timeka Shaunail: Oh yes — I’ve been playing drums all my life.
Before God saved me, I was beating drums anywhere — in clubs, at shows, wherever I could. Drumming was my first love, and it opened the door for everything else.
Marie: I saw that you did your first music video in 2008.
Timeka Shaunail: That’s right. Back then, I was still figuring out where I belonged musically, but that video was part of the journey that brought me to gospel.
Marie : You once planned to sing and play drums at the same time. Is that something you still hope to do?
Timeka Shaunail: I already have! It’s not always easy, but I love it. God gave me that gift. Today I’m not just a singer and a drummer — I’m also a minister. That calling shapes everything I do.
Marie : Isn’t it complicated to sing and play at the same time?
Timeka Shaunail: It takes focus, but I truly love it. God didn’t stop at music; He gave me other blessings, too. For example, I created a cartoon in 2022 called “Tamika Shaunail and the Family.” I came up with the concept myself, and God blessed me by connecting me with people who believed in the project. I’ll even be a co-star in it!
Marie: Is the cartoon based on your life?
Timeka Shaunail: Not really. It’s centered on the gospel, but it’s also a comedy.
We want it to show real situations — like what you see in churches — but with a sense of humor. I’ve seen a lot in my life, so there’s plenty of real-life inspiration.
And it’s special to me because my own children will be in the cartoon.
Marie : Tell us about your family.
Timeka Shaunail: I’m blessed with three beautiful children.
My twin daughters are grown now — they’re in college, studying filmmaking, and they’re going to be filmmakers and producers. My son is a sketch creator and a talented actor.
Marie: That’s amazing — the mother inspiring the children.
Timeka Shaunail: (Laughs) I think we inspire each other.
My daughters are truly gifted. We used to watch award shows together, and they could predict the winners — they’ve been right for three years straight.
I’ll never forget driving down the street one morning and seeing a huge billboard — and there they were!
I was shocked!
They told me they hadn’t mentioned it because they knew I’d probably drive past that billboard 200 times.
I get it — I was on a billboard once too, and it’s a special feeling.
I love that my children follow their own dreams.
Growing up in the same household doesn’t mean you have to take the same path.
Some people will try to talk you out of your dreams because they seem unrealistic.
But I believe successful people do what God calls them to do — and sometimes I even learn from my own daughters.
Marie: Did you feel pressure living in the public eye, especially being part of the Staples family?
Timeka Shaunail: I’ve faced challenges, yes. Some people tried to stop me from singing or drumming. Sometimes it’s jealousy or envy, but I wouldn’t wish that on anyone.
My choices are led by God. Why stop someone from using the gifts God gave them?
People do watch what I do, and it hasn’t always been easy — but I never stopped because I knew it was His plan for me.
Marie: We talked about a lot during our last meeting, but I still have more questions. To start, what advice would you give to young people who want to pursue a career in gospel music?
Timeka Shaunail: First, make sure your mind is truly made up. Be sincere about the calling, keep God first, and be willing to put in the time and the work.
As an independent gospel singer, you also need to have your finances in order — you have to pay producers, musicians, studio time, and promotion. And today, music alone often isn’t enough. You may need to be involved in other areas of the entertainment industry to sustain your career. But above all, if your heart isn’t really in it, it won’t last. God knows when you’re serious.
Marie: That’s powerful. What were some of the biggest challenges you faced early in your career?
Timeka Shaunail: There were many times when the money didn’t come quickly or when people made promises they didn’t keep. Sometimes people try to steer you in another direction. That can be discouraging.
I like to say you have to “roll, roll, roll your boat” — keep moving forward, even if the people who started with you decide to stop rowing. This is my dream, my calling, so I kept going.
I believe every difficulty can help you grow — it’s often a test of faith.
Marie: I read that you performed at the Broadway Theatre. How did that opportunity happen?
Timeka Shaunail: That was years ago, during Grease Lightning 1 and 2. I started performing and playing drums for shows when I was about 16.
Even then, I was going through a lot personally, but performing — especially playing the drums — was like therapy. I played drums in church too; my mother’s church actually had my drum set, and I was the regular drummer there.
Marie: Do you see yourself collaborating with artists from other genres?
Timeka Shaunail: Yes. In the past, I collaborated with Big Rich, a well-known rapper from St. Louis, on a track called You Should Have Believed in Me. I’m open to collaborating with gospel or even R&B singers, as long as the song is rooted in a godly message. I once said I’d love to do a gospel track with Willow Smith because I admire her voice — some people criticized that idea, but I believe we should draw people in with love, not shut them out.
Marie: That’s an inspiring perspective. Where do you see yourself five years from now?
Timeka Shaunail: It’s all in God’s hands, but I pray to be more successful — to have my real-estate ventures flourishing, my upcoming cartoon series launched, my new music released, and even my cologne line doing well. Ultimately, I trust God’s timing.
Marie: Finally, what does True Urban Culture mean to you?
Timeka Shaunail: To me, it means being seen, being real, and being heard.
It gives a platform to people and stories that might otherwise be overlooked.
It shows the authentic side of our communities and shines a light on talent that deserves recognition. I believe God wants everyone to be seen — not just one side of the world.
Marie: Thank you for sharing your story and wisdom with us.
Timeka Shaunail: Thank you — and I also want to give a special shout-out to Brooks Management Entertainment for believing in me and helping make this connection happen. I’m truly grateful.
Follow Timeka Shaunail on Instagram
