Models and Promo Girls wanted: Your 15 minutes starts now

Alright today on Marketing Talent we have an interview with Shelby Babakioff – Shelby is a musician and a model, and she’s promoting herself online at her website, so go along and check it out because basically, what I like about shelby is not only is she hot, obviously – with tonnes of picture sets to check out and get ideas from, and also a big emotional sound in her voice, but she has a cool website for fans to check out.

Because shelby is a musican also and that comes through really strongly on her site, it brings a really distinct vibe to her site. If one of my clients was coming from a music angle, a bluesy, emotional angle, a rock and roll angle, with a product they woanted to push they would see this site and would probably say “We want her!”.

Of course they would, this is the importance of getting started with a website to promote yourself.

Doing free websites for models, actresses, musicians wanting to kick off is one of the main things we do at marketing talent. You work with us on your site, start picking up some traction and we know you’re ready for the next stage of using online promtion to develop your profile and use a strong brand to break in to a career as a model, actress, performer . . . whatever works for you.

So moving right along I put some questions to Shelby because there’s 2 things we’re doing here to help each other which is at the foundation of good online promotion – writing and publishing your blog regularly, and, because I’ve provided a link to Shelby’s site for her, that will help her get better rankings, found more on google, and more fans and interest in her website.

This is part of my job working with models, helping you to get articles, photos, links, videos out there so you have a brand you can work.

But enough about my job let’s talk to shelby about her experience in the industry!

So in some of your shots you’re like a ring girl and have done bikini contests, how do you feel about showing off your body for guys?

I get so extremely nervous! Showing that much skin for anyone is so nerve racking. I just love being on stage, putting on a show, entertaining. I love being uncomfortable…it gets me off. I believe though, that beauty comes in all shapes and all sizes..and that’s why I was intrigued in getting involved in modelling. I grew up around many people who had eating disorders and so on and so forth…I just want people to know that muscular girls like myself can make finals in bikini contests…be ring girls…etc. You don’t need to be stick thin, you need to be healthy and have charisma.

What’s your experience as a model, what were the challenges and what would say to a girl wanting to get into it?

I haven’t had too much experience being a model. From what I’ve learned though, my advice would be always stay true to your morals and your self. Sounds cheesy, but really. I refuse any nudity at this point in my career…and it’s always offered to you…for pay or no pay….but people want scandalous…and I just won’t give them that.

Your music sounds like it’s definitely more serious and thoughtful where does this fit with your image as being all hot and stuff?

Music and modelling are two totally different things for me. Music will always come first. Always. It comes from within…it’s a gift and a talent. I write about my personal experiences, and also make stuff up. A good songwriter doesn’t have to go through the shit to write about it, ya know? My music definitely is deep, sometimes dark, and very serious. If I didn’t know any better, I might think I was depressed (haha). I love composing horns, strings, and guitar licks. The lyrics and melody – the raw form of a song-and the performance, are how I truly express myself though. As for modelling, it’s honestly more for fun. Another form of expressing myself, embracing my charisma, and meeting wicked people. Music is my passion, modelling is a hobby. You never know who you might meet; after all, it’s pretty much the same industry;)

How do you think people respond to your music and the way you look? Do people want a “barbie with the blues”?

A Barbie? Why thank you. HA! I think? I can’t say I agree. I’m blonde and born that way…and I am truly one of the happiest people I know…But all the dark demons and hard times come out in my music. It’s to relieve myself and try help and console people through my music, which, ultimately allows me to be as happy as I am. I want my fans to be able to relate to me..and if I can be there for them and get someone through a really tough time just through voice, melody or lyric..then my job is done! I wouldn’t be surprised if people are hatin’ ‘cuz I am not their typical pop princess and they want me to be ‘cuz they think I fit that better. But I don’t care what they think..I’m more of a little edgy rocker than anything, and I’d rather fulfil my own life than fake my way to eventually never, no matter what, even come close, to EVER satisfying anyone else’s life haha

WHo are you influenced by in your performing style and your creative influence?

As far as genres and styles go….my influences are Southern/Country Rock, Blues, R&B, Pop.

My performing style would be a mix of Christina Aguilera, Carrie Underwood and any edgy rockers. Think head banging with a bit of bootie. Dramatic. ANY 80’s: Roxette..Heart…(the whole pop belt)

Creative influences are definitely Eminem..all around..hands down. I am also in love with Jessie J, Whitney Houston, Beyonce, TLC, and Johnny Cash and June Carter.

Also, I played tons of Zeppelin, Deep Purple and Yes in college, and I found my performance style by jamming their tunes. Again, being hyper active on stage..head banging and booty shaking while jamming with a bunch of smelly dudes. It was fabulous.

I see you do some traditional covers, is that just for the money, how do you feel about that?

It’s never really about the money…

I have done, and still do, so many free gigs it’s quite sickening. It’s about connecting with your audience by doing what you love, and of course..trying to make a living eventually. Any chance I get to sing Cryin’,Undo It,or Highway Star…I’m there! It’s also important to do covers when you’re just starting out in the business, so people can relate. Guarantee you’ll get a bigger following mixing originals and covers to start.

What are your aims in music and performance? Are you out for stardom or are you going to keep doing it anyway?

I will always do what makes me happy..performing on stage. Whether I am dancing, singing, or working’ the cat walk..I was born to do it. It’s what gets me off. I feed off of people’s energies. I want to make a living doing my thing, so yes, I want to reach a point in my life where I don’t have to serve in a restaurant and play the poor waitress part anymore, and just have solid income from entertainment alone. Stardom would be an honour to achieve…but if I don’t top the charts, I will never stop living my dream through my music, even if it’s just a hobby or a side job.

Where did you grow up, what was that like?

I grew up in good ol’ Salmon Arm, BC. Such a small town girl…

It was incredible. Everyone is down to earth, and I could walk anywhere and smile at everyone and they would smile back. In the city, they look at you like you’re some kind of alien. “Why is this chick so happy all the time??….”

I loved convoying up the mountain for big bon fire parties and dancing on the hoods of trucks, mud boggin’ and camping…ah the good life!

Have you got a boyfriend?

Just recently. He’s a stand up guy!

Have you had any weird crazy or interesting experiences performing or modelling you could tell us?

Oh my gosh. I have a few train wrecks I could tell you about. Hmm…wardrobe malfunctions? Traumatic experiences due to illness?

Should I or shouldn’t I….

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