Elaine Lil' Bit Shepherd
Elaine “Lil’Bit” Shepherd born in Bahrain, began performing at a young age. In 1997 she immigrated to Vancouver BC, Canada with her family, where she continued to develop her musical talents, transferring and blending the sounds of her origins with the West Coast Canadian vibes she met. Blessed with a confident voice and creative ability, Lil’Bit is recognized as “the little girl with the big voice,” as her iconically sweet tone is pleasantly alluring, and draws a listener into her world of dramatic presence and passion.
In high-school, Lil Bit picked up the guitar and piano, expanding her musical expression, while developing her understanding of the structure and mechanics underlying the music she loved. This all strengthened her value in the overall substance of songs, and she began focusing heavily on songwriting, enrolling in music classes in college, and collaborating with fellow musicians who focused on their meaning as much as their sound. These collaborative chances introduced Lil’Bit to the contemporary world of Hip-Hop, Rap and Reggae music.
Lil’Bit’s efforts during the 2009 Junos in Vancouver, B.C. earned her the notice of Carrie Mullings (of iMOK Enterprises)who introduced her to Toronto Reggae scene.
Lil’Bit’s release of “Lady in the Streets,” saw her deemed a ‘hidden gem’ of Canada, owing to her powerful and refreshing sound. Her music possesses timeless zeal, as the refreshing presence is strongly-rooted on a base of classic and soulful music; clearly recognizing this love for canonizing music, a 20 year radio vet of Jamaica had this to say:
“There were times when I thought that sweet Lovers Rock like this was a thing of the past. After listening to this talented artist, I realized that there is still hope for music of such quality. Her Erika Badu sound alike add flavor to some poignant lyrics telling the brothers, “don’t rush it, just take time to get to know me”
The lyrics were no doubt skillfully crafted to speak for today’s women as she virtuously declares that the price of her worth is not under her skirt. The song has the kind of power to keep you listening for hours. Of course this artist will be around for a very long time.”
- Tony Gallimore Newstalk 93FM Kingston, Jamaica.
These kind words mark a time of artistic progressional for Lil’Bit, as her personal achievements began earning her public respect and nationally-renowned accolades. Lil’Bit began seeing regular rotation on community airwaves across Canada, and in June of 2010, Lil’Bit received The Most Promising New Artist Award at the RMAA’s. This award–a milestone in itself–ultimately foreshadowed her acceptance of the most prestigious award in the Canadian Music Industry: in 2011, Lil’ Bit received a Juno for Reggae Recording of the Year, an honour that she received graciously.
Lil’Bit also received two awards at the 2011 WCRMA’s for Best Female Vocalist, and Single of The Year, and was nominated for Best Female Vocalist, Best Reggae Single, and Artist of the Year at the 2011 RMAA’s
Elaine “Lil’Bit” Shepherd’s formal accomplishments speak for themselves, but her voice speaks louder, as she continually evolves as a professionally minded, strong woman, and as a relentlessly passionate artist. Her sound is bold, and her humble frame only exaggerates the beauty her soul speaks, making Lil’Bit a Canadian icon worth following closely.
