Hello Gabrielle, how are you?
Hello hello! I’m doing well, thank you.
Congratulations on the release of “Colourblind” , how does it feel?
It feels absolutely amazing to have finally released Colourblind. It’s my first single in 4 years so it feels great to be sharing new music.
What’s the story behind the song?
The song was initially a submission for a song game challenge that I took part in a couple of years back during Covid with a wonderful group of female musicians/producers. We would challenge ourselves to write a song a week, then would listen to everyone’s songs and give each other feedback.
Colourblind was written during this time. During this particular week I was having a turbulent time. My emotions were everywhere and I’d also left trying to submit a song down to the last minute. In desperation, I decided to hit record and improvise to see what would come out and this song came out.
For me the song is an honest monologue of my life at the time. I hope it allows others to accept their emotions and feelings without judgement.
You’re an artist originally from Ghana living in London. How did it all begin for you?
My heritage is from Ghana but I was born and raised in Croydon, South London. I spent my early years singing at church. I’ve always been fascinated with songwriting and performing from a young age which led me to performing arts school where I studied musical theatre. I then went on to study music at Uni. I would say that is where my musical sound birthed.
What did you listen to growing up?
I’m definitely what you would call a 00s radio baby. I would listen to a lot of Pop, Soul and R&B. I also grew up listening to a lot of Gospel and worship music.
I grew up with Ghana Hiplife and highlife being played in the house as well as 70s & 80s soul and disco. A lot of Barry White and Lionel Richie to name a few. As I grew my tastes changed and I developed I fell in love with Jeff Buckley, Nina Simone, John Mayer, Jon Bellion, Tune-Yards, Angelique Kidjo, Pearl Jam, Emily King, Janelle Monae, Moses Sumney, Laura Mvula. So there’s quite an eclectic range there.
You finally finished your UK tour with Tom Robinson, how was it?
The tour was incredible. I feel so blessed to join Tom and Adam Phillips on tour. They are amazing people and fantastic musicians.
Have you picked up any tips from him?
To keep your set list fresh and current. You can always keep working and developing your show, especially to make it meaningful to the audience that you are playing to that night. I’ve also loved how Tom has so many stories and is able to communicate it with his audiences. He always gives room to build a connection with those in the audience.
Tell us a funny story from the road?
Not a funny story but a cool moment. We stopped off at the first service station and as I’m walking into the toilet I saw Joan Armatrading walking out. I ran back to the van and told Tom because it was such a random siting of a great British legend. He laughed and said he’s friends with her which is awesome!
You have graced many impressive stages, what’s been a pinch me moment for you?
I would say this tour. Playing at Tedx Brighton and Soho.
You have a deep love for songwriting, do you have a routine?
I try to journal and try to do as much free writing as possible. It ‘s not very scheduled, I just make sure to invest a lot of time into it as this tends to be my foundation when writing songs. I also schedule writing sessions with bandmate and collaborator Rubén Vázquez Amos.
What are you listening to at the moment?
I’ve been exploring the 60s again. Been listening specifically to the album The Dock of the Bay by Otis Redding. My favourite song on the album is Open the Door. I also have been enjoying Madison Cunningham’s new album ACE and Moses Sumney’s Sophcore EP.
What are you looking forward to doing next?
I’m looking forward to putting out more music!
