Today we’d like to introduce you to Shariee Jones.
Hi Shariee, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I started writing song lyrics at the age of 16. I wrote mostly rap lyrics since I was influenced by local Memphis rappers like Skinny Pimp, Three 6 Mafia, and 8 Ball & MJG. At some point, I decided to write R&B music and that first song was What Goes Around.
It was picked up by Hollywood Records, but they wanted it selected for country music for Dolly Parton. I decided not to allow them to use it because I wanted it song for R&B music. Dolly Parton is a great artist and very likable. I was young with no music industry guidance at 16, so it was a greatly missed opportunity not working with her.
At 18 years old, I decided to move away from music and start modeling for Xtra Modeling Agency which was based in Atlanta, GA. I did a few shows and some print work under that modeling agency.
After starting my modeling career, I joined an R&B girls’ music group and performed in local clothing commercials, and a few other media outlets. A year passed by and the girls’ music group that I was in split up. So, I decided to become a solo artist during my freshman year of college.
Some circumstances came up in my personal life that made me change my outlook on my career goals. I truly believe that some things in life happen to you in order to help others who are struggling with their life journey. I believe that the only true success is when you let go and let God guide you to your destiny.
I’ve learned how to channel a lot of negative energy into something positive. Turning negative life experiences into positive feedback is what music, art, fashion, and helping others do for me.
During my college years, I became the Associate Editor of StreetMaster’s Magazine based in Memphis, TN following my internship with The University of Memphis’ newspaper, The Daily Helmsman. I also covered the Dub’s Magazine Car Concert and Tour southern events annually as an invited journalist.
Working as a journalist, I met a few film producers who asked me to appear in the movies such as “Hustle and Flow” directed by Craig Brewer/John Singleton, and an independent film “What Goes Around” under Pitts Productions. Later, I started working for MTVU and kanyeuniversecity.com as a promoter.
Starting as my college grad project, I later created HyPhaze, a fashion and entertainment online magazine that was geared toward teens and young adults in hopes of becoming a positive voice in society. These opportunities with Kanye West and MTVU led me to work with Universal Records and Interscope Records’ new talent.
I truly consider myself a visionary, artist, and activist for Human Rights. In 2009, I decided to let go of my company HyPhaze and I created Model Definition Interfaith Ministry in Memphis, TN. After I created my ministry, God led me to create my company Divine Army.
I chose the name Divine Army because I was working at the time for The U.S. Army and Veteran Affairs at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center in Bethesda, MD. During my time spent working under civilian orders, I was attending theology school in Haviland, KS remotely. Working and attending school at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center gave me a chance to also experience church life there among the military chaplains.
In 2017, under my company Divine Army, I recorded my EP album Revelations produced by Digital Beatz and Mr. Roubaix. My album reflects on the end of pain in everyday life by embracing new beginnings through reformation and self-reflection.
I wanted to educate on public safety awareness and promote community healing for mental and physical health. I counsel through my fashion, music, and artwork. I am grateful to be in a position to use all of my God-given talents.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle-free, but so far would you say the journey has been a fairly smooth road?
I don’t believe that any path in life is smooth. My life has had its share of setbacks, but I keep moving forward with grace.
Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about Divine Army LLC?
My company, Divine Army LLC, is a private wellness coaching practice.
I am a Wellness Coach, a theologian, and a journalist. I have several certifications with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention as well as certifications from the U.S. Veteran Affairs.
My goals are to promote public safety and to promote alternative, natural healing methods as an option for good mental and physical health. I also use writings, music, fashion, artwork, and jewelry to educating the public with retail and art therapy.
Who else deserves credit in your story?
Growing up, I have had many mentors who have helped me along my journey through life. My fraternal elders, family, professors, and my soulmate have been a big influence on my success and career so far.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.divinearmy.com
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/divinearmyllc
- Facebook: https://facebook.com/divinearmyllc
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/divinearmyllc
- Other: https://www.doctorshariee.com
