I’m in awe. That was my reaction when I first heard Delaney Gibson’s voice and watched her viral for Stars. Talented isn’t the word. In fact, there aren’t any capable of describing the richness of Delaney’s voice. Her music and words are just as powerful, and every time I listen to one she leaves me wanting more. I feel honored that Delaney has taken the time to do an interview with EY. Even through her answers you can feel her passion and creative sense. Check out Stars music video below and continue for the interview:
Where are you from and what inspired you to become a singer?
I was raised in a small seaside town of Ventura, California. I started singing at age 5 when I was cast as Noah’s conscience in the kindergarten musical. I haven’t stopped singing since!
Who are some of your biggest influences?
I’m influenced by life itself and the way people interact. Musically, my biggest influences are movie soundtracks, anything by Michael Giaccino, Freddie Mercury, and current acts like Manchester Orchestra and Regina Spektor.
Your music is described as theatrical pop. Give us your interpretation of what that means to you?
I started studying classical voice at age nine and I spent most of my early years doing musical theater. Try as I might, I just can’t get away that theatrical sound. I’m prone to grand ideas in music and I love the cabaret interaction with an audience. I guess, that’s what makes my music all me.
Tell us about your latest album, Tall Like the Tree. What’s the story behind the title?
The title comes from the first track, “Be”. The lyric is “I want to be tall like the tree. I want to bend, I break easily.” I think that really tells a lot about the entire album. Empowerment, defining yourself, loving deeply, and growing are all themes of the album. I dedicated this to my 1 year old son, Copeland. I want him to grow Tall the the tree and fulfill his absolute potential in life.
How does your third album differ from your previous two releases, in regards to the musical direction and what each record signifies?
With Tall Like the Tree, I was able to fully express myself without worrying about what genre or style I was trying to fit into. The last two albums were more singer/songwriter. While, I like them they just didn’t have the theatrical flare that I crave. I was trying to hide that part of me. My producer, Joshua Bartholomew really gave me the freedom to be exactly who I am on this album.
I really love the new single, Stars. There’s something very empowering about the music and lyrics. What would you like for listeners to take from the song?
Thank you! That’s great to hear! I hope this song makes people feel that they can be more vulnerable in life and that appearances are deceiving. We spend so much time on social media these days. It’s hard to not judge our own lives based on how we view others. I want everyone that hears this song to know that they are exactly where they need to be.
What was the concept behind the music video?
My director and I wanted to show a little bit of the struggle of making a go at your passion. The street scenes are very similar to how I wrote the song. I would walk around NYC for hours and hours writing music. At the piano amongst the stars is that universe we are all looking to create. That place where we are living our passions and they have become a reality.
If you had to pick your absolute favorite song on Tall Like the Tree, what would it be and why?
That’s a tough one, but I would say “Lions” that song is the most raw and real piece I think I’ve written. It’s very close to my heart and the music video leaves me speechless.
I read that you’ve provided backing vocals to many big names in music. How has the experience impacted you as an artist, and how have you evolved since you’ve started your solo career until now?
I’ve been fortunate to work in the music business for most of my career. That has really shaped my professionalism and drive. You find out really quickly just how hard these big stars work. It either makes you quit or jump in head first. I chose the latter.
Any regrets? Anything you wish you would have done differently having to do with your music?
I wish I hadn’t spent so much time trying to please everyone else musically.
What’s next for you?
I’m working on getting publishing and more licensing for my music. I also have an insane new band with two female lead singers/pianists called SIGNY. I’m really excited about our music! I’m working on booking a few tours in the new year as well.
Delaney, thank you for taking the time. Please leave a message to aspiring singers and songwriters.
Practice, work your craft to an art, and make true friends. That last bit is more important than you can imagine.
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Find out more about Delaney Gibson by visiting the following links:
facebook.com/DelaneyGibsonMusic
