New Artist Spotlight: Shawn King
By Gary Voorhies
© 2005 CMA Close Up News Service / Country Music Association, Inc.
Shawn King grew up in show business as the daughter of Karl Engemann, a record company executive, and a top Hollywood studio singer Jerri Engemann, who recorded with Elvis and Bob Dylan.
A native of southern California, King began performing at age 3 as a child studio vocalist, and later sang back-up vocals for motion pictures, television and albums.
In the 1980s, King frequently guest starred on prime-time television shows and co-hosted "The Spectacular World of Guinness Records" with David Frost. From 1990-1996, King hosted USA Network's weekly entertainment news show, "Hollywood Insider."
After marrying CNN's Larry King in 1997, she took a career hiatus to start a family. Now that her children are older, King has returned to entertainment and is focused on singing.
In a return to her musical roots, King has completed In My Own Backyard produced by Keith Follese, Steve Tyrell and Carl Jackson.
The album was released on Lofton Creek Records in September and features the title-track debut single written by Harry Stinson and Chapin Hartford.
IN HER OWN WORDS:
Who is your musical hero?
"I don't have just one. I love Wynonna, Dolly Parton, Bonnie Raitt, Linda Ronstadt, Trisha Yearwood and so many others."
What CD is on your stereo right now?
"Keith Urban's Golden Road."
What book is on your nightstand right now?
"My scriptures."
What do you sing in the shower?
"I honestly don't sing in the shower unless I'm getting ready to perform - then I sing whatever songs I'll be performing."
What is your pet peeve?
"Someone with 11 items in a not more than 10 item lane at the market."
What moment in your life would you relive if you could?
"The very first time standing in the circle on stage to perform at the Grand Ole Opry!"
What song do you wish you had written?
"'The Dance,' written by Tony Arata."
What word or phrase do you find yourself saying over and over again?
"Oh, my gosh!"
Which mode of transportation do you prefer - planes, trains or automobiles?
"Plane. A Gulfstream preferably!"
Who is your dream duet partner?
"It's way too tough to name just one, but my husband wishes it could be Frank Sinatra!"
If you wrote an autobiography, what would the title be?
"Larry King Wife - For Dummies!"
When they look back on your life in 50 years, what do you hope people say about you?
"She was a good mother and wife, helped others in need and not a bad singer."
On the Web: www.loftoncreekrecords.com
December 20, 2005
© Randee St. Nicholas
