The Hair Musician found her love for beauty at the age of 5, teaching herself to braid while her aunt attended Brio Cosmetology School. When Auntie practiced on her manikins, she grabbed her doll & joined in, unknowingly kickstarting her career. Her talent blossomed, earning her the title “The girl who does hair” in the neighborhood. Weekend gigs of beautifying friends for parties became her norm, as she mastered trends with creativity, while being challenged with different textures and lengths.

In 1999, she worked her first salon job under Rita of Rita’s Hair Design in East Hartford, CT. What began as a hobby grew into a full-fledged passion, fueling her pursuit of professional excellence. Her education spanned All Natural Beauty in Windsor, CT, and Legacy International in East Hartford, CT, before leveling up to the prestigious Paul Mitchell in North Haven, CT, where she graduated with honors, including a spot on the Dean’s List and completion of the Master’s Program.

Her journey included countless unpaid internships. Onto rigorous hair shows. Not to mention hefty investments in seminars & ongoing educational trainings; all driven by pure dedication. Fast-forward 20+ years, The Hair Musician is now the humble CEO of Hair Musiq Salon & Spa, Plainville, CT’s first Black-owned hair salon.

The Hair Musician now holds many titles: Licensed Cosmetologist, Esthetician, Desairologist, Master loctician, & Hair loss practitioner. She is also an active member of the CT Chamber of Commerce and ASCP. Not just a stylist—she’s a force. Her services go far beyond hair and skin, including bridal, mortuary, fashion shows, public speaking, hosting, mentorship, and teaching. Her specialties? Locs, braiding, creative up-dos, and silkening treatments.

Known as Shontai to some, Taye to most, and The Hair Musician to all, she is an artist with a passion for mental health, self-care, and growth. In her own words, “I aspire to inspire.”