OUR SOCIAL MEDIA LAUNCH -- & 3 REASONS WHY I'M NERVOUS ABOUT IT
Well, here I am doing something I never thought I’d do: I’m launching a social media campaign around my music -- on Tuesday, November 1st. And I’m really nervous about it!
Why?
1. Well, to start with, I’ve never been a big fan of social media. It can be so fake and fleeting - or worse - so mean-spirited and divisive. Not to mention that it’s often just a really complicated and time-consuming way of saying:“Look at me. Look at me. Look at me.”
2. Then there’s the overall reluctance I have about promoting my music. When I started writing songs for my family and friends several years ago, I never imagined that anyone else would want to hear them. And the first time I posted a song on YouTube, I sent it out to a total of seven people – my husband, our five children, and my mom. Haha – THAT was brave!
And now, about 1.5 million views later, I’m still a little surprised that people are listening to my songs. And truth be known, a little shy about it. My husband jokes that I like to say, “Well, yes, I wrote that song…but please don’t tell anybody.”
3. Finally, it’s just a super vulnerable thing to do. It takes a lot of time and effort to write a song, and every song sort of becomes part of me. And when I put it out there, I’m putting myself out there. And at least for me, that’s an incredibly scary thing to do.
But recently, I’ve had a few experiences that have helped change my mind. One of them was reading this scripture:
“For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth.” (Romans 1:16)
So here I am – five years after that first video went out – and I’ve finally reached the obvious conclusion: It’s not about me. It’s about Him. And I’m just trying to do my part to be an emissary of the Lord, Jesus Christ, who has given me every good thing I have.
I still have huge doubts about myself and my music. But I don’t have any doubts about Him. I know He lives. And I know His message to be the most authentic, enduring, compassionate, hopeful and truthful message of all time. And we definitely need more of that on social media, and everywhere else.
As a new social media campaigner – I’ll make you a few promises:
I won’t bombard you.
I won’t give you the Photo-shopped version of my life.
I won’t make it all about me.
But I will keep writing music.
And I will keep trying to share the gospel of Jesus Christ the best way I know how – one song at a time.
If you want an update about all the details -- how to get a free download, music you've never heard before, and Christmas music to share -- just leave a comment below, and I'll send the update the day before Launch Day.
Blessings,
Shawna
Please don’t be nervous about putting your new songs on social media- Each song has a message that everyone can benefit from. A message they didn’t know they needed to hear.
I love your children’s songs. They are written in a simple yet testimony building way. They are teaching gospel principles that help them understand, a family home evening lesson may have the same message, yet put it to music and they will learn it in a fun way, and remember it, not realizing they are building their testimony.
My wish is to have a songbook with all your children’s songs. Past, present and future. I love everything I hear from you. Thank you for sharing you amazing talent- I can’t wait to teach my primary kids your songs.
Shawna, I want to say don’t be nervous, but I obviously don’t know what you’re feeling so I’ll just say that your music has blessed the lives of a lot of people. It’s certainly blessed our family. I’m excited to hear more songs you’ve written.
More people should have your music, Shawna. It’s inspiring and beautiful, and it always makes me cry. Especially The Miracle. Good luck with your launch!
Thank you Shawna for your music. We have 5 grandchildren who are growing up without the Gospel in their lives, and as I have been listening to your music, I realize it might be through music that they might hear about the Gospel, and perhaps a seed might be planted on who the Savior is to each of us. To each of them. And maybe questions might arise, as they listen and feel the Spirit.
Leave a comment