By: Lennard James
In a world where love, laughter, and music are more essential than ever, Shonda Elmore and Damon Warren are demonstrating that the right pairing has the potential to spark something powerful—something that can uplift, entertain, and inspire people from all walks of life.
Both originating from Greenwood, South Carolina, their journeys began in the same community but developed uniquely before fate brought them together. Shonda, affectionately known as Shonda E, is a vibrant woman of purpose, resilience, and joy. A mother of four sons and grandmother of five, she spent 25 years building a successful career in Health Science and Food & Drug Science. Her days were filled with corporate structure, responsibility, and leadership—until 2024, when she made a bold decision to follow faith over familiarity and took a leap toward a lifelong dream.
That dream? To travel the world, embrace new adventures, and use her natural comedic talents to create something larger than herself. Shonda’s comedy is not just about punchlines; it is about purpose. Her vision is to bring people together through laughter, create cultural connections, and use humor as a bridge toward understanding and healing. With God guiding her steps, doors began opening, and one of those doors led to Damon.
Damon Warren is a gifted musician and IT professional who has spent decades mastering two very different disciplines: technology and music. A father to one daughter and four sons, as well as a proud grandfather, Damon’s passion for music began early and has remained a constant throughout his life. With jazz at the top of his musical interests, he has been playing keyboards and saxophone for most of his years. While his professional career flourished in the world of Computer Science and Cybersecurity, his heart always beat to the rhythm of a jazz solo and the soulful hum of musical expression.
Together, Shonda and Damon are more than just a couple—they are a creative powerhouse. Their love story began not just with affection, but with a mutual admiration for one another’s talents and vision. The harmony between her humor and his music became the foundation for something meaningful and transformative.
A manifestation of their love, talent, and commitment to uplifting others, their partnership is simple yet profound: blending the soothing sounds of live jazz with the uplifting joy of stand-up comedy. The result is an unforgettable experience that resonates with audiences across generations and cultures. Whether it’s Shonda lighting up the room with her natural comedic timing or Damon serenading the crowd with smooth saxophone melodies, their full-circle artistic experience leaves people feeling better than when they arrived.
What makes their story even more compelling is how grounded it is in faith, purpose, and shared vision. Both Shonda and Damon are motivated by a deep desire to create spaces where people feel joy, unity, and love. They serve as examples that it’s never too late to pursue your dreams, that retirement can be a new beginning, and that when love and purpose intersect, something remarkable can unfold.
Their future appears full of promise, and their message is clear: joy is a calling, and love is the soundtrack. With Jazz & Jokes, Shonda and Damon are carving out a legacy rooted in creativity, connection, and cultural celebration. They are, undeniably, a force to be reckoned with—not only as artists but as partners, visionaries, and beacons of hope.
As they continue to tour, inspire, and entertain, one thing remains true: Shonda and Damon are not merely pursuing a dream—they are living it. And the world is certainly richer for it.
