We had the good fortune of connecting with Mark Shiiba and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Mark, why did you pursue a creative career?
I discovered my passion for songwriting during my high school years, but growing up, I never considered it a viable career path. It wasn’t until I found myself immersed in the structured environment of the Naval Academy and later serving as a Nuclear Surface Warfare Officer that I truly understood the depth of my commitment to music.
Despite the demands and responsibilities of my military service, I found solace and purpose in songwriting. It became a constant companion, a source of reflection and creativity amidst the rigors of military life. Through this experience, I realized that music isn’t just a fleeting interest—it’s an intrinsic part of who I am and how I navigate the world.
My decision to transition from the Navy to a career in music was not taken lightly. It was a culmination of years of self-discovery and the acknowledgment that suppressing my artistic passion was no longer sustainable. The journey of embracing my calling as a singer-songwriter represents not only a professional pursuit but also a deeply personal one—a commitment to honoring my truest self and sharing my voice with the world.
Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I’m very excited for the release of my first full length record, “Bones” which drops on March 24th, 2024. This musical project is a reflection of my personal journey in the Navy, the loss of my mother, and the serendipitous encounter with Colorado based singer-songwriter and producer, Daniel Rodriguez.
Daniel was touring with Gregory Alan Isokov and The Lumineers during their 2022 West Coast Brightside Tour when our paths crossed at a backyard concert in San Diego. Daniel heard me perform a song I had completed writing just a couple week prior called, “Bones” and felt so moved that it sparked a friendship which eventually led to Daniel to producing my debut full length record.
Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Definitely grabbing breakfast at Oscar’s & ordering the chorizo breakfast burrito and then stopping by my favorite coffee spot, Coffee Cycle. For lunch, we’re probably grabbing another burrito somewhere and then for dinner we’re going to my favorite Japanese restaurant in San Diego, Mr. Sushi in Pacific Beach.
Of course, we would have to go surfing but also a good hike is essential to get a well rounded San Diego experience.
Other things that would be on the itinerary would be drinks & music at Panama66 in Balboa Park, a ferry ride over to Coronado, and probably catching a Padres game. The main thing is to spend time outside. You can’t go wrong if that’s the main ingredient.
The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I owe a deep debt of gratitude to my friends & family, who have shaped me into the person and artist I am today. Especially my mother and father who raised family with deep love and that has made all the difference in my life.
Website: https://markshiiba.com
Instagram: @markshiibamusic
Youtube: https://youtube.com/@markshiibamusic?si=GTo0b76-hxxM5LAU
Other: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/4GwrlLHprqqy29GK9JnmY9?si=ffIu4E0NQhyMDsxp4hsMgw
Image Credits
Grace Galligan – all photos