Exposed Vocals Interviews Gwalla

Exposed Vocals: So us tell your story. Where did you grow up? What made you decide to become an artist?

 

Gwalla: I grew up in New Orleans, La.. A city that has good, bad, and entertaining historical legend behind it. I decided to become an artist at a young age. I had a family member that was a DJ, and I attended block parties listening to “Run DMC” that made fall in love with music. At that moment I decided to become an artist.

 

Exposed Vocals: How did you come up with that name? What is your inspiration behind it?

 

Gwalla: I came up with the name of my 2nd mixtape titled “GwallaVille.” Many people from state to stage didn’t know my stage name was ’32 Shots,” but the movement for “GwallaVille” was so consistent they started asking my associates, “Who is Gwalla?” So, due to the fans calling me Gwalla, I went with that name. Plus it was much more marketable than 32 Shots.

 

Exposed Vocals: What do you think about online music sharing? Do you ever give your music away for free? Why?

 

Gwalla: I think online music sharing is critical to the music industry in today’s world. Artist can quickly reach the fans in masses. People rather download music directly than to go to the stores to buy it. I have given my music away for free before simply to gain a buzz. Also to keep my fans entertained while waiting for the next project if singles are not being released. You must entertain people to stay relevant in this business.

 

Exposed Vocals: Since everyone was a start-up once, can you give any smaller or local bands or artists looking to get gigs and airplay some tips?

 

Gwalla: Yes, one of the most important aspects is to build a team with a manager with the intent is to make the artist/band’s success being one of the manager’s top priorities. Also attend every venue that has opportunities to network with all music business moguls.

 

Exposed Vocals: Where do you usually gather songwriting inspiration? What is your usual songwriting process?

 

Gwalla: I usually gather my inspiration from my life due to trials, tribulations, joy, pain, and experience to touch people that are enduring or enjoying the same feelings. My songwriting process?  I don’t write music. I take my time and freestyle slowly bar for bar until the song is finished. I don’t rush. I make sure the content is real, raw, and authentically different from others.

 

Exposed Vocals: Do you have a band website? What online platforms do you used to share your music?

 

Gwalla:  No, but I and getting one together now. As of now, I’m using Facebook “Gwalla Onit” page, YouTube, Instagram, and Twitter @Gwallazone page to share my music and visuals.

 

Exposed Vocals: If you were given half a million dollars and a year off, what would you do? How would you spend it?

 

Gwalla: I would not lose focus. I would look into ways that I can use that money and time to continue to build my brand and image larger. With this business I see no time to be considered as time off.

 

Exposed Vocals: How do you find ways to promote your music? What works best for you?

 

Gwalla: The Internet is the best way. I also find ways to fill the streets with a promotional street team. Facebook has been working well for me and my movement with “GwallaVille.”

 

Exposed Vocals: So, what’s next? Any new upcoming projects that you want to talk about? 

 

Gwalla: Yes, I have a project that will follow my mixtape “GwallaVille” titled “Truth.” The music on “Truth” will show my fans how I can gravitate to new platforms. “GwallaVille” is based off of hardships that I dealt with to gain access, but “Truth” will reveal how I felt once I’ve conquered the process.

 

Exposed Vocals: If you weren’t making music, what would you be doing? 

 

Gwalla: I would be looking back at the “what ifs” or hating myself for not continuing to following my dreams, knowing that hard work always pays off.

 

Exposed Vocals: How do you juggle the rest of your responsibilities while trying to stay ahead in your music life?

 

Gwalla: I don’t juggle. It may sound strange, but I have been going through hell and hurricane Katrina’s high water to reach the top. Many people, places, and things tried to detour me, but I let issues take care of themselves while I push forward. As far as basic responsibilities, I pay for what I have to and keep my focus on the career I’ve worked decades on to become successful.

 

Exposed Vocals: What should fans look forward to in 2016?

For 2016, the fans can look forward to more visuals, interviews, more information, new shows, and music. The momentum for “GwallaVille” will grow larger, and become more highly anticipated before it is released.