Hear what a well-loved diva has to say about working with the renowned producer NOSTROMO!
Bio: Gilda was born and raised in Lynn, Massachusetts, and is of Dominican descent. She is the first of her generation in the family to get involved in music. She began writing her own songs at a young age and her calling to sing was solidified when she joined the church choir. She then auditioned for a band called Motion and was hired on the spot launching her career. Gilda paid her dues in smokey clubs and when she stepped foot into the recording studio, she never looked back.
She’s collaborated with musicians that toured with Britney Spears and Justin Timberlake. Gilda is influenced by major artists like Mariah Carey, Brian McKnight, Anita Baker, and Chaka Khan. Gilda had the opportunity to showcase her original music in Music festivals, Winter Music Conference, Nemo Music Festival and Conference, and clubs like the Blue Note and Soul Cafe in NY, including private functions around the United States. Her singing has also taken her to Europe, St. Thomas, Hawaii, and Copenhagen. She also sang in the concert choir for Michael Bolton, Reba McEntire, and Celine Dion. She’s recorded with The Basement Boys (Crystal Waters), and Cutfather and Joe (“Return of the Mack”).
Gilda is currently promoting her songwriting catalog, which includes songs off of her Pop/Alternative, R&B, and Latin CD. Gilda also performs on jingles and has collaborated with other artists, writing and singing hooks for R&B, Pop, Latin, Alternative, and Portuguese songs. Other credits and accomplishments include winning The USA Songwriting Contest and placing the song “Natural Thing” in the movie American Desi and American Violet.
Gilda’s music is a mix of Pop, Alternative, Adult Contemporary, and Dance. Her smooth, sounding vocals are angelic and sincere. Gilda is considered one of the most well-known and talented female vocalists in the General Business venues in New England.
First off, tell us about your musical past, would you tell us about your early years?
I went into the music business initially singing in bands. I auditioned for a local band and got the job, so I was singing in clubs and bars back when smoking was allowed in clubs. I was writing and recording before that and mostly showcases here and there in Boston. Meeting people and getting into good and bad situations. Years later, I met a circle of musicians that inspired and helped me get into the wedding scene where I would make some actual money. It got better over the years. It wasn’t my goal to become a wedding singer but somehow, I ended up being one for many, many years, LOL. Luckily, that’s done.
How would you describe your sound?
I would say it’s pop, dance, and adult contemporary. Throw some Latin in there too, LOL. My voice is soft and strong depending on what I’m trying to express. I try not to be too critical of myself now; it’s more about, okay, did I get my idea across? And then whatever happens happens.
Which artists have the biggest influence on your sound?
Through my journey, Mariah Carey, Anita baker, Erika Badu and of course, Janet Jackson, and in the past few years, Alicia keys, Amiel Larrieux, and many more. I learned a little something from all of their singing styles. I would say that I didn’t find my voice until maybe ten years ago, like my true comfortable place where I felt confident with my delivery.
What’s the last song you listened to?
Doja Cat, LOL.
What’s your source for hearing new music?
The radio and sometimes through recommended songs for me on my playlist, Youtube, iheart ect.
If you could collaborate with anyone, who would it be?
Musique or Miguel or Ed Sheeran. Aaah and Cardi B, and maybe Bad Bunny and of course many more, LOL.
What led you to music, and what motivates you to keep making it?
I knew I liked singing as a child; it was an escape since I was painfully shy and introverted. When I realized I had the ability, I kept it to myself, LOL. And then the church choir came along and let me sing a few melodies here and there, LOL. I eventually found my way through the confusing path. Knowing I can create something beautiful on my own is what keeps me going. Finally finding a like-minded creative person also motivates me. Much patience and faith also keeps me making music.
Tell us about the songwriting process. How does it all come together?
One day it could be through a story or a conversation you’re having in your mind and another day it could be playing around on the keyboard with different chords.
How do you connect with your audience? What is the easiest way for them to connect with you?
When I’m my true self and not trying to be something I’m not, I find that we connect with each other more. Also definitely having fun really helps!
Connect with Gilda via her Twitter, her SoundCloud, and her ReverbNation.
You’ve worked with the producer NOSTROMO. What was that like? Did he provide you with direction?
It was a lot of fun. He’s very easy going and didn’t put any pressure on me. It’s basically my first music video tailored and catered to me and he guided me through it, encouraging me to just express myself and not worry.
How did NOSTROMO shape your song and bring it to life?
Once I heard the track, I was inspired to write. It was such a mysterious and alluring sound to me so I just tried to match what he poured into it.
You’ve also worked with NOSTROMO in filming a music video. Who came up with the video idea? Did NOSTROMO give you direction in what to do?
He had a vision for me, being that he’s done this before, and he helped manifest my vision of myself as well. I knew I just wanted to be natural and comfortable in the video and express myself freely and he guided me in the process.
Connect with NOSTROMO via his SoundCloud and YouTube channel.
What was it like collaborating with musicians who’ve worked with some of the biggest names in the industry?
I got to record with a lot of my friends before they went on to tour with major artists. It was a good time of my life in which I learned how to work in studios, developing my writing and my vocal recording skills. They still check on me every now and then to make sure I’m okay.
You’ve showcased your music at huge music festivals and conferences. Please, describe what that was like. How did it feel? Did any of the showcases open any opportunities for you?
It was always a learning experience. More like learning what to and what not to do. It wasn’t much of a stepping stone. It was exciting in the moment until you realize you’re not really being taken care of as an artist. Looking back It’s really important to have a team or a label to be placed in the right situations.
You won The USA Songwriting Contest. How did that feel winning such a prestigious award?
I was honored. It was definitely a boost and something to be proud of.
Your song “Natural Thing” was placed in American Desi and American Violet. What was it like hearing your song in movies? Any advice for songwriters trying to get their songs in movies?
I was excited! Kind of in disbelief, LOL. That opportunity was through a friend that I met. You never really know when and how it’ll happen. I’m still tackling that goal. Making connections and developing relationships with people with the same goals is super important. Nowadays, you have the ability to be very independent. But networking is probably the main way and protecting your work first and foremost.
What’s next for you?
This is a whole new phase in my life right now, so I can’t wait to write and record my next song! The song is actually trying to get out of my head at this moment, saying, Hello!
Anything else you’d like to add or let us know about?
I’m also excited about launching my new clothing line in the near future! Still working on some details though. A hot diva style is coming soon! I’ll post updates on my social media when I’m getting close!
