Fresh off her latest release, Gabi Sklar is laying her soul bare for all to witness. The New York-based sensation is making waves with her new single, “Thank God.” It’s a track laden with raw emotion, a personal testament to freeing oneself from the clutches of a toxic relationship and finding fresh air on the other side.
As the musician explains, “‘Thank God’ is that first breath of fresh air after coming out of a toxic relationship. It’s not only about coming to terms with that destructive period in your life ending, but it’s also about beginning the process of healing your relationship with yourself.”
At only 23, Gabi has managed to captivate millions with her dynamic songwriting and powerful vocals. Her journey has been nothing short of mesmerizing, building a community of 3.5 million TikTok followers eagerly awaiting each release. The artist maintains a close creative synergy with the reputed Grammy Award-winning producer Tommy Brown, working tirelessly to evolve into a pop icon.
“Thank God” showcases Gabi’s vocal prowess, finely tuned under the guidance of renowned vocal coach Don Lawrence. The song features not just her vocal strength but a melody that speaks to the soul, reaching out with understanding and camaraderie to others who have shared similar experiences.
Below, we spoke with Gabi Sklar about making the transition into becoming a musician, building a social media following, and what to expect in the future. Check it out below.
How did you find your love for music? Having taken social media by storm, what led to you eventually wanting to pursue music as a career?
I started writing songs when I was seven years old. I loved the idea of pairing poetic words with dreamy melodies. I spent my teenage years in and out of studio sessions trying to craft my sound and identity. When it comes to social media, I started posting with no expectations. I just wanted to share my love for singing. I was honestly shocked when more than a hundred people saw my videos, let alone a few million!
Do you have key musical inspirations, but also people who have inspired you in your personal life?
I’ve had some incredible mentors in the industry teach me so much, like my vocal coach Don Lawrence, and my performance coach KJ Rose. I try to do my own thing and source inspiration from within, but I definitely admire plenty of artists. I’ve always loved Dolly Parton’s charisma and authenticity. I also love Lana Del Rey’s storytelling and morphing of hip-hop and old Hollywood glamour.
Your track “Thank God” is another incredible addition to your growing catalog. What is the message behind it? What do you want people to feel when they listen to it?
“Thank God” is a breath of fresh air after forgetting what it felt like to breathe. I want people to find healing in the record and know that your past or even your current situation doesn’t have to define your future.
Also, you dropped three singles — “Good Kisser,” “Monster Truck,” and “Pardon My French” — earlier this year. Where would you say this particular single fits into the fold, and how do you feel about your work so far?
I have a love for all of those singles because they’re all part of my story, which is ever-changing and evolving. “Thank God” marks the first of many songs that’ll have more intimacy and depth, and will also draw more from my personal story.
Having millions of followers online is no easy feat, and pop stars are often held to this higher standard of perfection. What impact does that have on you, if any?
I feel really incredibly lucky! For many years, I was continuously told the reason I’d never make it in the music industry was because I didn’t have an audience. Now I do, and It’s one I built from the ground up. I love everyone who’s been so supportive throughout the different stages of my career, and I just want to give to them everything they’ve given me, just by being there and streaming the records.
What do you do on those days when you aren’t feeling so confident? How do you empower yourself?
Sometimes, all you need is a change of scenery. Whenever I’m feeling down or out of character, I get in the car, put on some badass music, and go on an adventure. Usually, that entails a walk in Brooklyn, some coffee, or a trip to local record and thrift shops.
Let’s talk about your hairstyle — what’s your secret to keeping your hair soft and lustrous?
Bad advice, probably, but the secret is just a really great blow dryer. I naturally have thick and wavy hair that has a mind of its own!
What is the rest of 2023 looking like for you? What are your next big moves?
I have so much new music on the way and hopefully, fans will be able to hear it on a stage near them soon!
