Following on from a string of vibrant offerings since her much-loved debut EP 'An Inner Monologue' last year, South African artist Gabriela Diamond is back on the grind once again as she delivers her immersive new outing 'Timeless'.
Adopting more of that electrifying alt-pop aesthetic she has been building for herself, 'Timeless' makes for a wonderfully rich and shimmering listen. With its bright and dynamic production perfectly set to her impactful voice throughout, she is definitely one to keep a firm eye on for the months ahead as well.
So with the new single available to stream now, we sat down with her to find out more about her origins and what has been inspiring her most over the years.
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What was the first instrument you fell in love with?
The first instrument I fell in love with was the piano - although I have been singing for the majority of my life, I never became acquainted with any instruments until my 16th birthday. I was gifted a keyboard and shortly afterwards the pandemic hit I spent the next year teaching myself how to play. I learned so much about myself as an artist and it was such an empowering experience to be able to channel my artistry and feelings into more than one avenue. Piano is definitely one of my first loves in music.
What kind of music did you love when you were younger?
When I was younger I was really into Justin Bieber. I was (and still am) a die-hard Bieber fan. One Direction, Selena Gomez, Taylor Swift, Miley Cyrus were on constant rotation. I also discovered Amy Winehouse at about 12 years old. Amy changed my entire perception of music and she has been on constant rotation ever since.
What was the first album you remember owning?
Justin Bieber - My Worlds.
What is the one song you wished you could have written yourself?
Vienna - Billy Joel.
Do you have any habits or rituals you go through when trying to write new music?
My habits or rituals when I am writing new music always vary, I love putting on Jazz instrumentals because it really helps me get my creative juices flowing, I love looping a motif on piano or guitar until I am able to streamline an idea or if I am in a session with other people, I love having endless conversation until inspiration strikes.
Who are your favourite artists you have found yourself listening to at the moment?
Yebba, Amy Winehouse, Shallow Alcove, Remi Wolf and Holly Humberstone are on repeat.
If you could open a show for anyone in the world, who would it be?
I could die happy if I got to open a show for Jorja Smith.
What do you find is the most rewarding part about being a musician?
The most rewarding part about being a musician is being able to channel feelings and experiences into art. It is my greatest form of therapy and I am grateful I get to express myself in this way.
And what is the most frustrating part?
Comparison and self doubt for sure.
And what is the best piece of advice you have received as a musician?
The best advice I have received as a musician is to never stop experimenting, to continue listening to as much music as possible, to experience as many things as I can and lastly, to just focus on making great music.
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Gabriela Diamond's new single 'Timeless' is available to stream now. Check it out in the player below.