Shelly Bonet

A voice that instantly captivates with a fresh and soulful charisma is hard to find. The unforgettable feeling of warmth coupled with instant familiarity, are rolled in a sensitivity and passion few have the talent to express with such ease. The emotion is evident in the reactions of her audience Shelly has hypnotized throughout her career, leaving spellbound all who hear her unique vocal sound. Embracing her Fathers love for Led Zeppelin, Howlin Wolf, Elmore James, T-Bone Walker. Allman Brothers through to Etta James and her Grandfather’s melodic ear as a pedal steel player, inevitably Shelly would foster a love for a wide range of musical genres. Moving extensively, her Father’s computing skills with the US Military in conjunction with other commitments, led to living in Germany with her close family in Zweibrücken and Heidelberg. As an independent 14 year old, Shelly began her desire to perform in small bars and clubs scattered across Germany guided by the loving gaze of her Family. She joined “The Sunnyland Blues Band” formed by one of her Brothers Shaun, building a comprehensive repertoire while touring extensively in Germany and other European territories. Shelly also played numerous Blues Festivals also supporting Alana Miles until returning to Seattle in the United States to have her Son Michael in 1999. Shelly’s deep southern routes entwined with a European classic rock twist, have led to many musical journeys. Moving to Muscle Shoals led to working with Jimmy Johnson, one of the original Swampers, recording and writing with spectrum of talent. Feeding from the rich history in Muscle Shoals, among other’s, The Rolling Stones, Aretha Franklin, Traffic, Bob Dylan, Glenn Frey to Boz Scaggs, to more current artists, The Black Crowes and The Black Keys to name a few, Shelly witnessed the recent recognition in the Americana scene that burst out of the region. Nashville, Memphis and LA, also featured on a vibrant schedule of collaborations. The friendships built from the numerous live shows and writing sessions, led to the basis of her band for the new recordings who feature in current artists as Jason Isbell and St Paul and the Broken bones.