We were lucky to catch up with Gabe M recently and have shared our conversation below.
Gabe, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. We’d love to hear about a project that you’ve worked on that’s meant a lot to you.
The project that holds the utmost significance in my journey as Holy Colors is undoubtedly my debut full-length album, ‘Far Away Places.’ It stands as a testament to my personal growth and artistic capabilities, surpassing any expectations I had for myself. Composing a collection of 12 songs was a monumental achievement, one that filled me with immense pride.
What made this project even more extraordinary was the organic and spontaneous manner in which the songs came to life. As I immersed myself in the process of tracking the demo for one song, I would unexpectedly stumble upon a new chord progression that became the foundation for the next. It felt as if each song held a hidden clue, leading me seamlessly to the creation of the next masterpiece. The creative energy was like capturing lightning in a bottle, an exhilarating experience that I cherish deeply.
When it came to the lyrical aspect, much of it unfolded within the confines of my mind. During the writing process for ‘Far Away Places,’ I held an overnight shift at a job that required minimal attention, allowing me to delve into the depths of my thoughts throughout the night. With a notepad always by my side, I pieced together lyrics, capturing the essence of my emotions and experiences. One particular song, ‘Faces of Death,’ holds a special place in my heart, as almost all of its lyrics were crafted mentally during my work hours. As soon as my shift ended in the early morning, I would race home to record and immortalize the words I had composed. These musical memories are etched within me forever, serving as a testament to the passion and dedication poured into this project.
In summary, my debut album ‘Far Away Places’ has been the most meaningful project of my career as Holy Colors. Its creation not only pushed the boundaries of my creative abilities but also led me on a journey of self-discovery. The spontaneous and organic nature of the songwriting process, coupled with the deeply imaginative lyrical compositions, has left an indelible mark on me. The memories and emotions woven into this album are an integral part of my artistic identity, forever cherished and celebrated.
Gabe, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?
In the wake of significant and transformative events that shaped my life in 2018, music became my sanctuary, my source of solace. Channeling the turbulence and negativity into something positive, I embarked on a deeply introspective journey, culminating in the creation of my first EP, ‘This Is Not An Exit.’ During those transformative three months, I became a recluse, immersing myself in the process of writing music, finding refuge within the melodies and lyrics I crafted. It marked the beginning of an unwavering commitment to my musical path, a path I have wholeheartedly embraced ever since.
As an artist, I firmly believe that each individual possesses a unique essence that sets them apart. For me, that distinction lies in my steadfast refusal to confine myself to a singular sound or genre. I am constantly driven by a desire to explore uncharted territories, experiment with diverse musical elements, and push the boundaries of convention. Infused with a deep admiration for vintage aesthetics, I weave a tapestry of influences that resonates with my artistic vision. Ultimately, I aspire for Holy Colors to carve out a signature sound that is instantly recognizable, a sonic fingerprint that defines my identity.
What fills me with the greatest sense of pride as Holy Colors is witnessing the positive impact my music has on others. Whether it’s the heartening feedback I receive or the elation that permeates the atmosphere during live performances, the connection forged with listeners is a profound source of fulfillment. To know that my music has touched someone’s soul, to have people approach me after a show to express their enjoyment, is a testament to the power of art. I am humbled and deeply grateful for the opportunity to share my creations with the world, and it brings me immense joy to know that my music resonates with others on a meaningful level.
Do you think there is something that non-creatives might struggle to understand about your journey as a creative? Maybe you can shed some light?
The realm of creativity often harbors a certain enigma that can be challenging for non-creatives to comprehend fully. The ability to dream, to wander deep within the realms of thought, and to embrace a more abstract way of thinking are inherent qualities of creative individuals. These aspects of our creative nature can be difficult to put into words, as they reside in a realm beyond traditional explanations. It is often easier to showcase our artistic expressions rather than articulate the intricate processes behind them.
Furthermore, there exists a certain reluctance among creatives when it comes to sharing their projects or ideas prematurely. This stems from a deep-seated desire to present their work in its most refined and authentic form. It is not about perfectionism, but rather a genuine commitment to offering a complete and immersive experience to the audience. This inclination towards careful curation and attention to detail can be a perplexing concept for non-creatives, who may struggle to comprehend the importance of such considerations.
These aspects, the tendency to delve into contemplative thought and the discerning nature of creative individuals, are what often create a divide in understanding between creatives and non-creatives. However, it is through the act of creation itself that we can bridge this gap, as the results of our artistic endeavors have the power to speak for themselves and invoke emotions that transcend the confines of mere explanation.
Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?
In the dynamic world of music, resilience becomes an indispensable virtue. It is an essential quality for any artist navigating the often unpredictable and challenging landscape of the industry. Countless hours of dedicated work, late nights spent crafting content, writing and recording music, and embodying the essence of a musician can sometimes seem to go unnoticed or fail to generate the recognition an artist desires. This reality can be disheartening, as the fruits of one’s labor may not translate into the desired level of engagement, such as views, streams, followers, or widespread attention.
However, it is precisely in these moments that resilience emerges as a vital force. As a self-releasing, independent musician driven by a profound love for the craft, the foundation of your journey lies in your unwavering dedication to the music itself. Despite the potential setbacks or lack of immediate recognition, your passion and commitment propel you forward. Resilience becomes the guiding force that encourages you to persevere, to continue pushing boundaries, and to navigate the highs and lows with unwavering determination.
When your motivation springs from an authentic connection to the music, external validation becomes secondary. It is the pursuit of artistic fulfillment that sustains you, even in the face of adversity. This resilience enables you to remain focused on your creative vision, undeterred by temporary setbacks or the whims of the industry. It is an unwavering belief in your craft and an unyielding commitment to sharing your unique voice that fuels your persistence.
In essence, resilience is the lifeblood of a self-releasing, independent musician. It allows you to weather the storms, stay true to your artistic path, and continue to create and share your music with the world. It is through this resilience that you not only overcome obstacles but also evolve and grow as an artist, forging a lasting impact that transcends the fleeting nature of external metrics.
Contact Info:
- Website: holycolorsmusic.com
- Instagram: instagram.com/holycolorsmusic
- Facebook: facebook.com/holycolorsmusic
- Twitter: twitter.com/holycolorsmusic
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@holycolors