West Coast-based artist Giselle Grayson has opened tours for T.I., Young Jeezy, Lloyd, Sean Paul and Bobby V . Read what the performer has to say about her craft.
Do you most often actively seek inspiration or does it find you? Or is there a combination of the two?
Inspiration always finds me. I’m usually driving in the car, where my mind is free to wander, when a song hits me. And, most of my music comes to me all at once, as in a whole song … those are always the best tracks. When I sit down, an entire song pours out as if it already existed in the universe.
What led you to art in general and to your art form(s) in particular?
I was raised in and around the music industry. My father is a Blues musician; I grew up surrounded by great music. It is most certainly a part of my genes and my soul. There was never any other option.
Have you and your artistry ever been involved in traditional business? If so, how?
Absolutely. At the end of the day it is a business; I am a brand. At the end of the day the music I make, the albums, the singles, they are all products to be sold. And in order to do that, you have to be a business-minded person, and have strong business people around you. I have an amazing team of people behind me.
In addition to mastering their art, what other skill sets to you recommend that artists develop if they want to be successful?
Well, that goes strongly with the business side. Develop your business knowledge and develop your brand. I am obsessed with branding; it’s the thing that sets you apart so that people will be inclined to listen to your music. Learn the business inside and out. A hot track or talent doesn’t equal success. It’s a lot of hard work. Be ready to work for your dream.
How do you stay at the leading edge of your craft?
I try to stay in the loop of what’s commercial. I don’t want to sound like anyone else or create music that already exists. I think that balance helps me stay fresh and current. I’m also always reinventing myself. I like to try new looks – new producers, new sounds. It’s really all about challenging your self to grow. If you’re always growing, you’re always going to be relevant.
Do you think that there are widely held misconceptions about art and/or artists? If so, what are they and how do you work to dispel them?
Yes! Absolutely! I think a lot of people think its “easy” to do what a singer-songwriter does. Or that its not hard work. I work harder at this than I have at any other job I’ve ever held. Partly because I love it and mostly because it is required of me in order to succeed. My workday is endless and I love it. It’s a lot more than “standing on stage and singing;” there is a whole world of work that goes into creating those perfect moments on stage.
How do you map out your goals? How do you measure your success?
Once I set my mind to something, I just go and do it. I research it, learn it inside and out, and from there I’m better equipped to navigate my way to success. I think that if I’m able to reach people, no matter the number, on a level that touches them in some way through my music, then that is success.
Who do you consider to be your peers in your field? Who do you see/use as examples for you to emulate?
I’m not a fan of emulation. I think its great to aspire to be the best you can possibly be and for that reason I am often compared to some of the greatest singers of our time. And I am continually blessed and humbled when compared to Christina Aguilera, Adele, and Beyoncé. What a blessing to know that my talent speaks to people in a way that they reach for those names by comparison. I am truly grateful and blessed.
Name two of your top role models: one in the art world and one from outside of it.
I’m a huge fan of the work Christina Aguilera does. She is an artist first and foremost and to her it’s not about selling records, as much as it is about creating the music that is in her soul. To her credit, it’s the most authentic thing she can offer her fans; and I think that’s exceptional.
Secondly, although not a singer, I am like most people a huge admirer of Oprah. She is truly the very definition of conquering obstacles to live a truly full and meaningful life.
Also, my mother is my greatest role model. I am always proud to say I am my mother’s daughter. She has overcome some of the greatest hardships any one person could face, and she is still laughing, smiling, and creating joy all around her. The greatest lessons in life, I have learned from my mother.
Name three books, works, performances or exhibits that changed how you view life and/or yourself.
One of the best gifts I ever received was a book called The Wisdom of Florence Scovel Shinn, it’s a collection of teachings by the bestselling inspirational author. It was a gift from one of my closest friends and it truly changed my thought process on life and how we navigate through it. It’s a wonderful book that truly strengthened my spirituality, my choices, and my relationship with God.
When I was in high school, I saw a concert with Christina Aguilera and Destiny’s Child and man that was a phenomenal experience to have – powerhouse singers doing what they were born to do. That truly inspired me to pursue singing on a commercial level. At the time, I was performing in musical theater, and studying classical music and Opera.
Why do you consider continued learning important?
I am a student of life. I think the minute we stop learning we stop growing. Soak up as much information as you can. I went to college to study political science and now I’m getting my degree in music business. I am obsessed with knowledge and the power that it has to change and shape your life.
What affirmations do you repeat to yourself that contribute to your success?
I don’t believe in negative self-talk. I try to keep everything that’s going on in terms of conversation with myself positive. And I think that truly helps. I’m a cheerleader for my dreams, and myself and I think that’s a great thing. My favorite motto is “Live the life you imagined, all things are possible.” I believe it 100 percent.
What role does art have in the community? What role would you like to see art play in the community?
Art is a huge part of the community and it always should be. It breaks my heart to know that we’re cutting arts programs in schools. Many of the greatest leaders and thinkers to ever walk the earth were students of the arts, rather than traditional academia. I hope to see more parents investing in the arts for their children. It enriches your life, and creates an outlet that you wouldn’t otherwise have, and I think that is endlessly valuable.
What role does technology play in your day-to-day life? How do you utilize it?
Technology is huge. I own a graphic design company, another passion of mine, so I am always either on the phone or the computer, sometimes both. I have two laptops always open on my desk and I am just a technology junkie. With that being said, I believe in having a no-tech day to get back to the basics and be connected with the people around you. No phones at dinner or at the park, etc. As an entertainer, social media is a huge part of my career, so I’m involved in it whether I like it or not, and most of the time it’s a great way to connect with my fans and find out what they want to hear.
Please define your personal brand.
I am a singer-songwriter, entrepreneur, actress, and overall lover of the arts. My brand reflects the duality in women. I’m strong, but I’m sensitive, I’m edgy, but I’m also sweet. I think it’s important to know that we are not just one thing, but shades of many different things.
What is your favorite vacation destination and why?
It’s anywhere tropical where I can totally disconnect from technology and just be with the water. I’m a Pisces and we love our water and nature; I commune with God and the earth and all the things that we take for granted in the midst of our busy lives. Any time I can play in the ocean or in the sand, I’m a happy girl.
If you could change one thing about the world, what would it be?
Kindness. I think we are in need of great kindness. I see so many people who are mean to the people they love, and probably worse to strangers. As a society, we tend to walk past the needy, as if they don’t exist. Don’t get me wrong. There are so many people doing wonderful things. But, I think overall we are in need of kindness.
If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?
Balance. I am always searching for balance in every area of my life. I tend to be a workaholic, and I work really hard now to balance that out with friends and family time, and just really enjoying being young.
What does it take to be iconic? In your estimation, who has achieved that status?
I think an icon is someone who stands the test of not only time but the industry in general and remains themselves. I think there are several great icons, Marilyn Monroe, Bette Midler, Cher, Barbra Streisand, Christina Aguilera, and Adele. Fans, and people in general, want something real. And I think it’s hard to maintain your realness in this industry but if you can do that while creating great music, then you’re headed in the right direction.
