Welcome my friends! I’m LANEshia, a Dallas-based, indie recording artist.

LANEshia Fentress is a powerhouse of creativity and leadership—a respected author, acclaimed vocalist, and dynamic entrepreneur based in the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex. Known for her authentic voice both on the stage and the page, LANEshia is a sought-after speaker, performer, and thought leader whose work bridges the worlds of music, leadership development, and community impact.

As a performer, she has collaborated across genres with a range of artists, including GRAMMY-winning hip hop/R&B producer Madukwu Chinwah (Erykah Badu, Common), jazz saxophonist Paul Rogers, and Texas country artist Ray Johnston (formerly of the Dallas Mavericks). Her songwriting credits include co-writing “Need My Time With You” with gospel legend Fred Hammond for his Life in the Word album.

In October 2021, she released her debut solo album, The Journey, serving as both primary artist and composer. The album features performances by Mark Lettieri (Snarky Puppy), Bobby Sparks (Kirk Franklin, Marcus Miller), Allen Cato (Meshell Ndegeocello), Keith Anderson (Prince), and her father, bassist Chuck Smith (Joe McBride, Kirk Whalum).

In 2023, she partnered with Manny Cruz to release Hey You! and their full album The Manny X LANE Show, Vol. 1, expanding her artistic reach and blending genres in new, creative ways.

LANEshia is also the CEO and co-producer of The Fentress Music Group, a full-service music production company she out of the state of Texas.

Outside of music, LANEshia is a highly respected author and leadership development specialist. Her books—including Stage Fright to Spotlight and Interview Tips: Transforming the Workforce One Interview at a Time—offer actionable insights for professionals and organizations looking to strengthen leadership, build confidence, and grow careers. Her experience in HR, corporate training, and executive coaching shapes her work and her impact.

A dedicated mentor, LANEshia has helped countless young musicians in DFW connect for gigs, studio sessions, and tours. She is a voting member of The Recording Academy and hosts podcasts through The Mesh Collective and Talk and Tunes, where she amplifies indie creatives across disciplines.

Whether writing, teaching, mentoring, or performing, LANEshia leads with heart, excellence, and vision.

Click here to read LANEshia’s Canvas Rebel Interview