Interviews

Published on July 14th, 2020 | by MuzikScribe

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Gia Marie Love: Divine Intervention

Tell me your whole inception into music — When did you first become interested in it? And, how did it all begin for Gia Marie Love?

I was singing since I was a toddler; humming, singing children’s songs. It was just my happy place. I started creating my own songs around 7 years old. My mom bought me a Casio keyboard, and it was a wrap! The first genre of music that stole my heart was Doo-Wop and ol’ school. Listening to that upbeat, melodic sound with those flawless harmonies, I was hooked. My obsession over Doo-Wop transitioned into listening to artists like Mariah Carey, Whitney, Michael Jackson; they were the popular artists at the time. I loved the fact that Mariah wrote a lot of her own songs. I love Bill Wither’s music. His story demonstrates that it’s never too late to pursue your dreams. Once I started singing and writing as a child, I never stopped. I was also influenced by artists like Mary J, Blige, Stevie Wonder, Donny Hathaway, Roberta Flack, Marvin Gaye, Etta James…there are just too many amazing artists to name them all.

Now where exactly do you hail from? And growing up there, who all did / do you consider to be your strongest influences?

I was born in Chicago, Illinois. I lived there until I moved with my Mom to Fort Lee, New Jersey, then we relocated to the Bronx, New York.  I was about 6 or 7 years old when we moved to New Jersey, and 10 years old when we moved to the Bronx. I would spend my summers in Chicago every year to see my Dad, my Grandma and all my Chicago family. So, I have major love for New York and Chicago. I claim them both. My Mom and Dad influenced my love of music. My Mom and I were always singing, dancing, acting out skits. We would watch (Showtime at the) Apollo, then grab the microphone right after. That’s how we had fun. My Dad, he was always playing music. He introduced me to many styles of music, and showed me how to dance with a partner. After my Grandma went to sleep, we would all go to the basement to kick back with my Dad and listen to music. When I say we, I mean me and my Grandma’s dogs; Honey and Midnight. We had a blast! I have so many fond memories of Chicago summers, and growing up with my Mom in New York, that have influenced me musically.

At what point in time, specifically, did you even opt to pursue music on a professional basis?

I was always writing songs, and singing them for my Mom and my friends. I was about 15 years old when my Mom took me to record my first professional recording. It was this song I wrote called “Pretty Girl.” Then right after, I recorded a song I wrote called “My Angel.” Even at that age, I knew exactly how I wanted the tracks to go to accompany the lyrics and melody. I received a lot of interest from the record companies at that time.  It is just so important to stay consistent and persistent. Nevertheless, I was always writing and involved in music, performing with The City Kids Foundation in New York, and collaborating with friends on various projects.

 

Your new single is entitled  “Forever Love” — Tell me about this particular composition; how did it come to fruition?  

The concept and track were introduced to me by Jason and Jason – cousins from Boston – Jason Townes and Jason Anderson. Anderson produced a captivating track, Townes wrote the dope hook, and. I wrote the verses and bridge. We collaborated to create a beautiful and uplifting song. I believe this project was all about God’s timing. It was definitely Divine Intervention.

That said, how do you classify your overall sound and / or style?

I would just say my sound is youthful, and versatile. I can switch up my style. I don’t really want to classify myself into any specific genre. I’d prefer to let the listener classify me, and interpret my sound as they see fit. It’s interesting to hear how people classify me. My music would likely fall under Urban/R&B/Pop music. But I can just as easily create Gospel, Rock N Roll and Classical music.

In conjunction with the song’s release you, along with The Pac West Group, launched a “Fathers Tribute” contest — Tell me about this endeavor…

This contest is a way to highlight the importance of a father’s influence, presence and love. The goal is to share the song with the world, while hearing people’s tributes to their fathers. We need to hear more positive stories, because there are a lot of really amazing fathers who refuse to leave their children behind, who handle their responsibilities, and who do everything in their power to provide for their children. And I also believe this song can inspire both fathers and mothers to be better parents, to work to create those magic moments with their children. Sometimes, we as parents do the best we can, but it’s good to recognize how we can do better.

Switching gears here, what exactly do you want people to get from your music?     

My goal is to inspire people, uplift people and motivate people through music. Simply provide joy through song.  If you could collaborate with any one artist, living or dead, who would it be and why?       I would love to collaborate with Michael Jackson. His music is just versatile, timeless, generational and always lifts my spirit. Even his music with The Jackson Five is just awesome, and always a treat. The artists who were able to work with him before his passing are very blessed in my opinion.

If you could play any venue in the world, which one would you choose and why?   

Madison Square Garden, in New York, because that is where I saw my first concert; Janet Jackson ‘Velvet Rope Tour.’ It was an amazing experience, and she set the place on fire! I would love to perform there.

In terms of longevity, what do you feel it is that will continue to sustain you in this grueling industry? 

I truly believe my success relies solely on the effort I put into my career. It’s also important for me to stay humble, true to my authentic self and stay active; always practicing, and stay prayed up and focused on God. I’m learning that it’s important to be open minded, and listen to those more experienced than I am. I’m working on that part. I’m a stickler for things to be the way I want them to be, but this is so much bigger than me and my wants.

Do you have any other outside / additional future aspirations, maybe even completely away from music?  

Most definitely! First, I love being a mother to my children. They motivate me, and I learn so much from them. I want to be an inspiration to them. I am just naturally a creative person, and love baking, designing clothes, painting, writing comedy skits and children’s poems. I’d love to grow and develop all of my personal interests.

To date, what has been your biggest career moment(s), at least thus far anyway? 

To date, I would definitely say this song is a career highlight. This opportunity has been such a blessing, and I am very grateful to have participated in this lovely collaboration.

Looking ahead, say five or maybe even ten years from now, where do you see yourself?   

And as for the immediate, what’s next for you, Gia?  

5 to 10 years from now, I want to have multiple albums released, and be established as a highly successful singer and songwriter in the industry. I see myself having established some additional businesses, working my entrepreneurial chops. As for the near future, I’m excited to say we are working on the next single, another collaborative effort which I believe people will surely enjoy.

Lastly, when then can we, the masses, expect new material(s) from you? Like maybe perhaps your official solo debut…

New material is coming, soon, very soon. I can’t wait to share it with you.

Is there anything I left out or just plain forgot to mention?     

Not that I can think of…I enjoyed this interview very much. Thank you for even wanting to interview me, this has been a lovely experience.

Any “closing” thought(s) for our readers?

I just want to say to the readers, “You are beautiful, just as you are. Even if you don’t believe it, believe it. And don’t believe anybody that tells you different.”

 

 

Connect w/Gia Marie Love Online:

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SoundCloud

 


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