Gina Thompson: The Journey Continues

Now where exactly have you been? And what all had / have you been up to, both personally and professionally speaking, during your lengthy hiatus from music?

During my lengthy hiatus from the industry, I focused on family life, spirituality, mental health and enhancing my education- all of which continues to be priorities. I’ve earned my master’s degree in nursing, which has enabled me to continue to support and help others.

That said, how has not only you yourself – but also the entire industry in general – either changed and / or evolved since you first debuted onto the scene?

Over the last couple of decades, a lot has changed in the music industry. As we know, technology has made it to where musicians can promote their artistry in various ways, make money and do much more without the stamping and / approval from a record company. Digital download is the new norm, and there are no more purchasing of CD’s or cassettes. In speaking with several artists, the newer era of the music world enables artists to be far more in control of their craft and destinations.

Reflecting, tell me your whole inception into music — When did you become interested in it? And, how did it all begin for you?

I was born into a musically inclined family with both parents and siblings as singers. I began singing at an early age in my community, church and school – winning 1st place in various local talent shows. It was my brother, Chris Thompson, who felt my voice should be heard more and decided to take me to a local studio to do some recordings. Shortly after, a couple family members introduced me to producer and songwriter Rodney Jerkins. Rodney heard me sing and wanted to sign me to his production company, Darkchild Entertainment. I signed in December of 1994. After signing, Rodney and I recorded several songs at his home which later were shopped around to several record companies. Early 1995, I signed to Mercury Records.

Now you’re a native of Vineland, New Jersey, correct? So growing up in the ‘Egg Capital of the World,’ who all did / do you consider to be your strongest musical influences?

Yes, I’m a Vineland, NJ, native! My strongest musical influences were my mother [late Eugenia Thompson], sister, Selina Thompson, maternal grandmother [late Anniebell Scarborough], Vanessa Bell Armstrong, Kim Burrell, Patti LaBelle, (The) Clark Sisters, CeCe Winans and Whitney Houston.

In having said that, how do you classify your overall sound and / or style?

I feel my overall sound can be classified as soulful jazz.

What particular string of events actually led to your initial inking with Mercury Records?

Several record companies were interested in signing me, however, Mercury Records’ turn around time, contractual terms, roster of artists and the A&R department, all were absolutely impressive. After careful review of the offers, Rodney, my manager and I, felt Mercury Records was the best fit.

You later went on to sign with Missy Elliott’s now defunct imprint The Goldmind, Inc. through Elektra, and despite recording a follow-up, If You Only Knew, to your debut, unfortunately, nothing ever materialized from that union — Why do you think / feel that is?

To this day, I am not sure of the real reason the album was not released. At that time, there were a number of rumors, including me and several artists’ albums weren’t being released due to internal changes.

It is my understanding though that you’re finally back in the lab again crafting all new materials — What was it about now, in 20-22, that made you feel that the timing was just right for your return to true form?

Healing and growth is a process. Life is full of blessings and lessons. I am a firm believer that all things happen for a reason and in God’s timing. During my hiatus, development and learning in several areas had to occur; now that those pivotal aspects are in a better place, I am able to move forward to what God has destined for me.

How then does the new music either differ and / or compare to previous Gina Thompson efforts?

My unreleased album, If You Only Knew, still has a personal connection to my soul. The title of the album alone, speaks volumes about my life. I had a lot of control over this album unlike my 1st album. I was able to showcase more of my writing skills and collaborate with other artists / musicians. As I move forward with my musical endeavors, my goals are to continue to allow God to guide me, as well as write, collaborate and enjoy the journey; in other words, let go and let God!

Switching gears here…

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

Although I faced challenges with both albums, having the opportunities to make the albums, travel the world, meet other musicians/artists and give my fans music they love – all have been great career moments. I had obtained my master’s degree in nursing with a specialty is mental health and a nurse educator. I would love to continue this academic journey until I obtain my doctorate’s degree as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner – we will see. This nursing path is also one of my greatest career moments, as it has provided me great opportunities to continue to be a blessing to others and better understand not only my mental health, but mental health overall. I have learned that music and mental health is imperative!

What’s an average day like for you?

Work, work, work, work, work, work!! Family life; my daughter is in sports and in a private school, so SHE’s a full-time job in itself Lol! I have placed my schooling on hold for now, and am giving much more time towards creating new music and improving my physical health.

Please discuss how you interact with and respond to fans…

For so long I was not on social media, but that has recently changed, many thanks to my appearance on Pass The Mic with DJ Cassidy back in 3/2021. I have created a Facebook and Instagram (IG) account; however, I primarily communicate with my fans via IG and am diligently working on increasing the communication. I have also been doing interviews with various interviewers, and these interviews can be found or listened to on my IG page: therealginathompson. There is a link on my profile, click on it, it will take you to my digital business card, and you will be able to access the interviews along with my other previous works. I encourage my fans to message me on IG or view my digital business card; there is a number there where fans can directly text me.

What is your favorite part about this line of work? Your least favorite? And, why?

My favorite part about music being an artist is being able to express what I love to do and give back to fans. My least favorite is, at times, the industry’s demands can get so hectic and sometimes creates challenges with balancing music and life / family.

What advice would you have for someone wanting to follow in your footsteps?

Keep God in the driver’s seat! You must be careful who you trust, learn all that you can about the music industry, keep in mind the industry is a business – so conduct yourself as such, including making sure taxes are paid from any money you incur, surround yourself with folks that care for your well-being and love you for you, keep a sane mental and good physical health…and last but not least, have an effective work-life balance.

“The Things That You Do (Bad Boy Remix)” is a bona-fide R&B classic — How did this particular composition come about? Who came up with its concept? And, please describe for me the overall studio vibes on that fateful day?

“The Things That You Do (Bad Boy Remix)” was such a great collaboration and experience. After the original version was done, my A&R, Bruce Carbone, suggested to have Diddy do the remix, as Diddy was making a lot of hits at this time. Rodney, my manager, and I agreed on this idea. Diddy was contacted and agreed to do the remix. 112 and myself collaborated in Diddy’s studio, and once Diddy and Rodney heard the collaboration, they instantly approved. 112 did backgrounds on the bridge. Diddy felt the need for a rapper, so he asked if Missy could be on the track. She recorded her rap and everyone fell in love with the finished product. Mercury eagerly packaged the single and released it and the video in summer of ’96.

Lastly, what’s next for you, Gina?

I am working towards creating new music, growing and promoting my business, working with my oldest son with his music career, touring, mentoring and more.

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

You’ve covered a great amount.

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

Thank you soooo much for your support, and stay tuned for what’s to come!