We had the pleasure of chatting with Gia George of Divinely Gia about her music, inspirations, and the influence of yoga:
In 5 words, describe your music to listeners who have never heard your music?
Dark, sweet, beautiful, deep, uplifting
What were you thinking about when developing “Lessons and Blessings”? Explain your process.
The beautiful thing about “Lessons and Blessings” is that there was no original intent to make this album. All of the songs came about organically during the last 5 years of my music career. All of them served as therapy for me, as I wrote them to help me process the big ups and downs of my life journey (hence the name “Lessons and Blessings”). I never felt inspired to make an album until the 7th and final song on this EP was written, and suddenly the entire project flowed effortlessly. I met the right producer, photographer, mixer, graphic designer, and had the funds to make it happen. When the time was right, it was magic! I started recording it in July of 2016 and released it on my birthday in January 2017.
Who are your influences in the music world and in your personal life?
I grew up listening to hip hop and rap, so a couple of my favorite artists are Tupac and Atmosphere. I love the raw passion they convey in their music. I was also very influenced as a writer and singer by artists like Alanis Morisette, Enya, Sarah McLaughlin, and Lady Gaga. These ladies are true to their hearts and that really inspired me as an artist. In my personal life, I’m super close with my mom. She’s definitely a mentor and best friend of mine.
How has yoga integrated with your music?
Ooooh wow. Well, yoga really helped me develop myself spiritually so that I could get to a place of creativity and inspiration with my music. My yoga path led me to meditation and energy work which have helped me as a performer and songwriter. I really can’t imagine where I’d be right now without yoga! It made me who I am today. And in my career, I have played music for yoga classes (including singing during my own!), as well as used my music for sound healing, guided meditations, kirtan chants, and yoga workshops. So these days, yoga and music are pretty integrated in my career. It’s fun!
What’s your favorite yoga pose and why?
I have two favorites! Pigeon pose because it feels amazing to have open, relaxed hips. And child’s pose because I love to treat myself with tender loving care, and it’s such a sweet, gentle pose to go within and become calm and centered.
What do you think your listeners get out of your music?
I’ve had numerous people tell me that my songs have made them cry. Haha! I think the pure, raw emotion I convey in my songs taps into the unfelt emotions in my listeners. Releasing these stored feelings is very cathartic and freeing, and I always try to leave a message of hope in my sad songs. So I say that my music is dark and yet uplifting in this beautiful, paradoxical way. I’d like to think that I help people heal with my music.
What made you want to become an artist?
I was born this way, to quote my favorite, Lady Gaga. lol! But seriously, I think I’ve always just been such a free spirit and always felt inspired to express myself. I’ve always known what I wanted and had clear visions of the things I wanted to create. I’ve never been one to follow the pack, so I’ve carved my own through my artistry (in music and life in general). It’s a true blessing, yet a cross to bear, to have this wild muse within… to feel so free, and yet so uncertain what the future holds. But I love it!
Who would you want to work with in the future?
Good question… I’d love to sing on some EDM music like Kaskade or ATB or Deadmau5 (another favorite genre of mine). Then I’d love to get real soulful with Hozier, Ed Sheeran, and Adele. Haha!
If you could perform anywhere in the world, where would it be? Why?
I love a couple beautiful, natural venues in Colorado where I’m from. Red Rocks Amphitheater and the Lake Dillon Amphitheater are close to my heart and so, SO beautiful. I’d also love to travel to other countries and play at coffee shops around town- I love that vibe.
What’s the best advice you’ve been given?
You don’t have to figure it all out. It can be so daunting to live this life of creativity, artistry, and uncertainty. Sometimes I think I need to have a plan and a solution. But I’ve learned to trust and have faith that everything is working out for my highest good, beyond my control. So it feels amazing to remember that I don’t have to figure everything out!
What do you hope to do with your music?
I’d like to help people heal, and feel free, and feel at home in their souls.
If you’d like to hear Divinely Gia in person, catch her playing at Yoga to Farm on Saturday, February 18th!