Shelly Quest is a multi-talented artist originally from the Bronx, New York, now based in Cologne, Germany. She is a rapper, producer, and activist with a deep focus on empowering marginalized communities. Drawing inspiration from artists like Mos Def and Wu-Tang Clan, her music often blends hip-hop, soul, reggae, and socially conscious themes.
She began her music career in the early 2000s, performing with various groups before embarking on solo projects. Her work includes both music and acting, having appeared in the off-Broadway play Life is Short. Beyond music, Shelly is also involved in community engagement, mentoring youth through workshops and artistic programs. She participated as an Artist-in-Residence with the Academy of the Arts of the World (ADKDW) in Cologne, where she collaborated with local organizations to empower young people through creative initiatives. Additionally, Shelly designs fashion and incorporates activism into her artistic and personal endeavors.