Successful Sistas is an interview series featuring successful women pursuing their dream careers.
Job Title: I have three answers in a way; my life is composed of 3-M’s- Marriage, Motherhood and Music. So, in short, I guess my job (in life) is to be the best wife I can be, a great Mother and an example to my children all while making music that mirrors my life and my commitment to my faith, family and community. But the job that pays the bills and helps to keep the lights on is my profession as a professional vocalist. [gabbiemcgee.com]
Job Description: I am an independent Soul-Jazz artist. I have been told that I’m a “self-contained” artist because I write, produce and compose my own music. As an independent artist, I am responsible for a lot of my “own” stuff. Together with my husband, I manage my career, put together my own marketing material and book my own performances.
Why did you decide to pursue this field? Well according to my mother, I’ve been singing since I was three. I have a very close relationship with my grandfather, who is also a singer, and he always tells me to do what comes naturally. He said to me once “if your chosen profession is something that comes to you without thinking too hard, then that is what you should be doing.” Singing is the one thing in my life I have always been able to do; it’s like breathing…I have to do it! So, why not do what I have to do for a living? That’s how I see it.
What do you love most about your job? I love to see people’s responses to the songs that God puts on my heart. Because music is the universal language, your words and feelings are not just your words; they belong to so many people who have either witnessed you experience or have shared in the same experience. I love the connection that music brings to so many people.
What is the most stressful aspect of your job? Sometimes the balancing act of it all can be tough, but I’m incredibly blessed to have one of the most supportive husbands in the world. He’s a recording engineer so he understands the intricacies of the music business. We work together as a team in our careers as well as in our family life. I’m often faced with deadlines, due dates and other challenges, but I’m thankful for the solid support system God has given me. Our family, church family and friends play huge roles in helping me keep it all together.
What is the most rewarding aspect of your job? I find gratification in knowing I’m contributing something good to the world. I pride myself in creating music that is positive and inspirational; so to know that something God put on my heart to sing and share has the ability to brighten someone’s day is very encouraging to me.
Describe a typical day at work for you. Well, as an independent artist a lot of my “work” depends on people knowing that I’m “here”. I spend a great deal of my day networking and communicating with people all over the world who share my love for music. Yes, I’m a Tweeter, a Facebook Head, a Myspace Junkie, and I’m always updating and adding things to my website. You’ve got to stay connected to the people who support you…that’s very important .
What advice or tips would you give someone who wants to do what you do? Nurture your gift; study and learn the business; watch and observe other artists who are similar to you, but be sure of your music identity. Practice really does make perfect. Vocal coaching, healthy vocal habits and proper breathing techniques are all key components to having longevity as a vocalist.
Finish this sentence: This career is for you if___ You want to present the “you” you are to the world. Independent artistry is often a long, hard road, but it’s worth it to be able to be your own boss. I sing the songs exactly the way God gives them to me. I don’t have to re-write them because someone doesn’t share my view or perspective, and on stage I dress in a way that is befitting a young, married mother of two. People come to my shows to hear me sing and to share my experiences through the music; they didn’t come to see the things that should be reserved for my husband. As an independent artist, I have complete control and the freedom to be all I was born to be. My career is truly “ mine”.
[...] For more info about Gabbie, visit her website, gabbiemcgee.com, and check out her feature on FCG. [...]