FELLOWS
Satellite Fellows 2023
Shelby Ballenger
SINGER/SONGWRITER, STORYTELLER, AND GIRL BOSS
Shelby manages her own small-town-girl empire while telling her story of lessons learned through lyrics onstage.
From middle school talent shows, to local Opry houses, to honky tonks, Shelby has pursued country music from a young age. At age 24, she dropped her first EP, featuring all original lyrics and arrangements. From that first experience in the studio, she’s been hungry for more. Shelby has opened for many known names such as Lee Ann Womack, Pat Green, and Wade Bowen. She also had the opportunity to sing in front of 10,000 people at the 2016 Monster Jam at Bridgestone Arena in Nashville, TN. All of these accomplishments are special to her because she manages herself. Social Media, Show Bookings, Photo Shoots, Studio Recordings, everything is done by one girl boss: Shelby Ballenger.
ON THE RISE
Where to find Shelby Ballenger NEXT
Shelby plays over 200 shows a year, so she is bound to be on a stage near you soon! Check out her Facebook page for upcoming performances. Shelby plays solo acoustic and also has a full band. She is working on original material and is headed to Nashville to record her newest single “One of A Kind” with her band this winter.
Shelby Ballenger Music and Mason’s Troop
MASON’S SONG
Every artist strives for a purpose in what they are creating. Shelby found that purpose when her first nephew was born. In 2016, Mason James Ballenger entered this world. Everyone was in the lobby anxiously awaiting their turn to hold him. Shelby peeked through the glass to see the nurse’s face in concern. When Shelby was given the news, she discovered Mason was born with Down Syndrome. From the moment she saw him, she knew she would be his biggest advocate. In September 2016, Mason’s Troop was formed. With the partnership of the Down Syndrome Guild of Dallas, Shelby was able to create a Buddy Walk Team to raise funds for the non-profit. Each year Shelby hosts a Benefit Concert with several local artists. Each year becomes more of a success. Shelby also wrote a song called “Life’s Got a Funny Way” (A Song for Mason) that she has now performed two years in a row for the Guild at their annual walk.