Shira Small: The Resurgence of a Musical Talent
In the movie "The Drama," Emma and Charlie are a happy couple preparing for their upcoming wedding. They are seen practicing their first dance, filled with laughter and joy. The background song, "I Want to Lay With You," adds to the romantic atmosphere. The singer of this beautiful love song is Shira Small, who recorded it in 1974 at the age of 17. Despite not recording any more albums, her music is now gaining recognition, with her songs being featured in various movies and TV shows.
Shira Small, now almost 70, was surprised to learn about her music being used in "The Drama." She has had similar experiences in the past, where her songs were featured without her prior knowledge. The music supervisor for the movie, Jemma Burns, chose "I Want to Lay With You" for its nostalgic and charming vibe, fitting the tone of the scene before the couple's relationship takes a dark turn.
Growing up in Harlem, Small was always drawn to music and singing. Her album, "The Line of Time and the Plane of Now," was recorded during her time at a Quaker boarding school. The songs on the album reflect her idealism and experiences, including dealing with the loss of her mother. Despite her talent and passion for music, Small eventually shifted her focus to a career in the medical field, leaving music behind due to stage fright and the demands of her studies.
Small's album gained renewed attention when the Numero Group reissued it digitally and on vinyl. Her songs, especially "Eternal Life," found a new audience years after their initial release. Small's unexpected resurgence in the music scene has inspired her to start creating music again. In 2024, she released a new song, "Why," after a 50-year hiatus, showcasing her evolved voice and perspective.
Reflecting on her past and present self, Small acknowledges the continuity of her core beliefs and emotions. Despite the passage of time and life experiences, she still resonates with the themes and sentiments of her teenage songs. Small's journey from a young singer-songwriter to a seasoned artist rediscovering her passion for music is a testament to the enduring power of creativity and self-expression.