Timeka Shaunail Staples: A Multi-Talented Artist with Faith at Her Core

Photo Credit: Rachel Lynn

This month, we had the pleasure of interviewing the incredibly talented Timeka Shaunail Staples, a renowned gospel singer, drummer, and actress. With family ties to legends like Oprah Winfrey and Mavis Staples, Timeka has carved out her own unique space in the entertainment industry, guided by her faith and passion.

Mekka: For readers unfamiliar with your story, how did you first start in the entertainment industry?
Timeka: I started out acting, playing drums, and singing in stage plays when I was young. Every performance gave me a thrill and affirmed that I was living my dream. Later, I met Bradd Young, an amazing producer from St. Louis, who helped me with my first single, “In My Life.” It gained traction, got radio play, and led to tours and even a music video

Mekka: Were your famous cousins Oprah Winfrey and Mavis Staples inspirations for your career, or did your motivation come from elsewhere?
Timeka: While I deeply admire them, my true motivation has always been my faith in Jesus Christ.

Mekka: Your gospel music has touched so many lives. What inspires the powerful messages in your songs?
Timeka: My deep devotion to Jesus Christ is at the heart of everything I create.

Mekka: How has your faith influenced your artistic journey and creative process?
Timeka: I believe God has led me through every challenge, and that faith fuels my creativity.

Photo Credit: Rachel Lynn

Mekka: Can you recall a time when your music profoundly impacted someone’s life?
Timeka: Yes, someone once told me that my song “You Should Have Believed In Me” helped them through a tough time. It was such a humbling moment, reminding me that God gave me this gift to inspire others.

Mekka: You’ve collaborated with many incredible artists. Any particularly memorable experiences?
Timeka: Performing for Pastor Shirley Caesar in 2006 was unforgettable, as was working with rapper Big Rich on “You Should Have Believed In Me” in 2016. Every collaboration has its special meaning.

Mekka: Drumming is a powerful art form. What first drew you to it, and how has it shaped your identity as a musician?
Timeka: I started playing drums around the age of 7 or 8. Drumming is a part of who I am—it’s like my heartbeat. There’s nothing quite like the feeling of picking up the sticks and playing.

Mekka: As a female drummer in a male-dominated field, what challenges have you faced, and what advice would you give aspiring female musicians?
Timeka: I’ve faced plenty of challenges, especially from those who don’t believe women can excel on the drums. I even had someone push me down a flight of stairs after I outplayed them! My advice to aspiring female musicians is simple: keep going, don’t let anyone stop you.

Mekka: How do you approach drumming for gospel compared to other genres?
Timeka: Growing up in church, gospel rhythms became second nature to me. Gospel music is all about emotion and spirit, and that’s what I bring into my drumming.

Mekka: What inspired you to pursue acting, and how does it complement your music?
Timeka: I was inspired by watching movies and soap operas as a kid. Acting and music both allow me to express myself creatively, but in different ways that complement each other.

Mekka: Can you share a challenging role or performance, and how you overcame it?
Timeka: In 2017, I performed at an event in St. Louis for Tyrese Gibson’s late sister, Shonta Gibson. There were issues with my music, but I trusted God and stayed focused, and He carried me through.

Mekka: You wear many hats as an artist, musician, and actress. How do you balance all your creative pursuits?
Timeka: It can be a challenge, but I keep my focus on Jesus Christ and let Him guide me through it all.

Mekka: What projects are you currently working on, and where can fans follow your work?
Timeka: I’m working on my own cartoon series called TimekaShaunail In The Family. I’m also an ambassador for a magazine in Kolkata, India. Fans can follow me on Facebook under “Timeka Shaunail,” on Instagram as “TimekaShaunail,” and they can find me on Google too.