TL;DR
- Shao Hao releases debut EP S.H.17
- Explores themes of identity and belonging
- Blends British and Asian musical influences
- Advocates for visibility in the queer community
- Personal stories resonate with listeners
After years of crafting hits for others, Shao Hao is finally stepping into the spotlight with his debut EP, S.H.17. This isn’t just any album; it’s a heartfelt conversation between his present self and the 17-year-old who moved from China to the UK, grappling with identity and belonging. In a world where visibility is crucial, Shao Hao’s music speaks volumes, especially for those who feel like they exist between worlds.
“S.H.17 is a time-travel conversation between my present self and my seventeen-year-old self,” he shares. The EP dives deep into themes of belonging, identity, self-acceptance, and healing. Each track feels like a letter across time, reminding that younger version of him that feeling lost or different can ultimately become a strength.
https://twitter.com/share?url=https://www.attitude.co.uk/culture/shao-hao-sh17-new-album-525515/
“At its core, S.H.17 is about finding home, not necessarily in a place, but in yourself,” he explains. For many years, Shao worked behind the scenes, penning songs for other artists across Asia. But now, he’s ready to share his own story, blending the emotional storytelling of Asian pop with the Brit-pop sounds he grew up loving.
Growing up as a queer Asian artist, he often felt isolated, without many role models who looked like him. “Moving to London helped me understand myself more clearly. Music became a safe space to process my feelings,” he recalls. His journey highlights the importance of representation, especially for young queer individuals who need to see that they are not alone.
https://www.youtube.com/embed/pREHoBCAhVA?feature=oembed
During school tours, Shao has received countless messages from students who felt empowered to come out after hearing him speak about diversity and identity. “Those moments remind me why visibility is so important,” he says. If his music can help even one person feel less alone, then it’s all worth it.
One of the most personal tracks on the EP, “Dance in the Dark,” addresses the profound loss of his ex-partner, James, who struggled with mental health issues. Writing this song was a way for Shao to cope with that loss and convey a message of hope: “There is always someone who will be there for you, even in the darkest moments.”
Collaborating with producers from both the UK and Asia, including K-pop writers and Brit-pop producers, Shao Hao has created a sound that reflects his unique journey. He emphasizes that music is not just about individual success; it’s about connection and community.
Shao Hao’s story is a testament to the power of music as a medium for self-discovery and healing. As he puts it, “Your differences and personal history can become your greatest artistic strengths.” With S.H.17, he invites listeners to join him on this journey of self-acceptance and belonging, proving that music can indeed create spaces where everyone feels seen and understood.
So, if you’re looking for an album that resonates with the struggles and triumphs of finding your identity, look no further than S.H.17. Shao Hao is not just telling his story; he’s giving a voice to many who have felt lost in their own narratives. Stream it now on all platforms and let his music guide you home.