We recently connected with Gigi Rowe and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Gigi thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. The first dollar you earn is always exciting – it’s like the start of a new chapter and so we’d love to hear about the first time you sold or generated revenue from your creative work?

Well, just me and my guitar. I’m not even quite sure how I ended up singing that night. It was an open mic and I remember the owner approached me after singing and offering me money to return and do a full show. I was a teenager, playing my original songs at this Red Bank, NJ coffee shop around the corner from where I took guitar lessons. The room was hushed as I performed some of the first songs I had ever written, and I was pleasantly surprised not only how fans connected with my music, but also that I could be paid to be on stage. That was kind of the precursor to what happened later. It was on one of those perfect autumn nights on a Sunday in New York City when I got offered a few more dollars than what would afford me a hot chocolate. As a singer, it was the best feeling seeing LA Reid’s hands in the air during my performance, it was like there was electricity in the room. Having an industry visionary recognize my talent felt like I was finally destined to become a recording artist…and that early hot chocolate tasted even sweeter.

Gigi, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

It all started in the crib, with me singing at the top of my lungs. At the age of 5, I performed for 500 people in a black velvet dress with a white collar and red rose, wearing my Mom’s siren red lipstick. I picked up the guitar at 12, and quickly discovered my love for songwriting. I guess one could say, I thought the world was my stage.

I scoured Backstage magazine for open mics in New York City, and booked time at recording studios on the Jersey Shore. All I wanted was to make records that sounded like they belonged on the radio.

In a scene that felt like it was straight out of a movie, I was signed by LA Reid to Island Def Jam, getting the opportunity to perform for legends like Jay-Z and crossing paths with artists like Lionel Richie and Patti Smith. I toured the USA, played Lollapalooza and collaborated with award-winning producers in cities like Los Angeles, Nashville and Miami. I was honored to be the first-ever recipient of the Buddy Holly Prize from the Songwriters Hall of Fame, and got a publishing deal that took me to London, Stockholm and on storybook European adventures, from hot-air ballooning in Cappadocia to skiing in St. Moritz, to casting runway models in Milan.

Inspired by larger-than-life artists, I created the colorful Gigi Rowe persona, originally for my music career. Gigi Rowe would make her earthly entrance through multiple song placements on the Just Dance video games and a performance at Rock In Rio. Fashion has always been a love of mine, and the world of Gigi Rowe opened the door for me to experiment wearing colorful wigs and make bold fashion choices in everyday life.

Immediately, I found that Gigi Rowe was inspiring me, my collaborators, and even people on the street. I dreamed up a home for Gigi Rowe at the magical Stardust Motel, located high up in the pink cotton candy clouds, and I published a children’s book called Gigi Rowe Wishes to inspire us all to believe in the power of our dreams. An original song, “Wishes” that I wrote with Grammy-nominated producer ill Factor, was released with the book and is currently spinning on Sirius XM’s Kids Place Live Channel.

It’s such a joy for me when fans become completely immersed in Gigi Rowe’s world. I’m working on a content series as “real-life” Gigi Rowe, where my adventures will unfold, sparking imagination and offering meaningful life lessons. I envision this being a totally accessible play space with glittery stardust and rainbow-filled gumdrops. It’s an incredible journey for all. I can’t wait to bring this to life and connect with audiences ages three to three-hundred.

What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?

Magic. I think there is a unique magic that exists within all of us. The more we believe in it, the more it manifests in our every day lives. It helps us to see beyond, and to reach for something greater. It’s a spark that drives our imagination and curiosity, propelling us forward and giving us the courage to know that anything is possible and the spirit to fight for it. I created the technicolor world of Gigi Rowe to reconnect with the magic within me—my inner child and creativity. This is what I want to be able to give to the next generation through Gigi Rowe’s enchanting universe, and her whimsical personality.

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

The sparkle! The feeling of being truly inspired, and then giving that same excitement to others. As Twyla Tharp famously said, “Art is the only way to run away without leaving home”. With that in mind, I love creating entire worlds from just the spark of an idea. Creativity feels like pixie dust is floating in the air around me, and I can reach out and quickly grab a glimmering handful before it disappears. I’m constantly channeling something from what seems like another realm, opening up my eyes in the process. I’m rewarded by the smiles reflected back at me in the faces of those I connect with. Art has the ability to transcend every boundary. Experiencing that is something very special.

Contact Info:

• Website: hellogigirowe.com
• Instagram: Instagram.com/hellogigirowe
• Facebook: Facebook.com/hellogigirowe
• Youtube: YouTube.com/hellogigirowe
• Other: TikTok.com/@gigirowe

Image Credits
Evi Kosciow