Over the years, Giselle has quietly built the foundations of a career defined by versatility, determination and a lifelong passion for music. From writing songs as a child to performing at some of Los Angeles' most respected venues, the Boston-born singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist has continued to evolve while refusing to be confined by any single genre.
Her latest album 'Just Say Sorry' is the strongest reflection of that journey so far. Blending contemporary pop, R&B, electronic influences and emotionally honest songwriting, the record explores themes of self-worth, accountability and personal growth, with its infectious title track setting the tone for an album that is as confident as it is heartfelt.
So with the new album out 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?
Piano
What kind of music did you love when you were younger?
All types of music! R&B, Soul, Funk, Pop, Pop-Rock, Jazz, Classical, Screamo, Metal, Pop-Punk… AND MORE!
What was the first album you remember owning?
I remember the two very distinctly. I had a cassette tape that had “classics” on it and I asked my mom to buy it for me because I was obsessed with the song, “Fever” by Peggy Lee. I also got an Earth Wind and Fire CD that I would play non-stop!
What is the one song you wished you could have written yourself?
Out of Time by The Weeknd.
Do you have any habits or rituals you go through when trying to write new music?
When songs don’t pop into my brain during everyday life or tasks, I find myself locked in my music room/office playing piano or guitar and just allowing emotions to flow. Seeing what comes up and going from there! Sometimes a specific incident can occur that inspires me to get in the room and write everything down then figure out the melody after!
Who are your favourite artists you have found yourself listening to at the moment?
The Weeknd, Spiritbox, Mariah Carey & Evanescence.
If you could open a show for anyone in the world, who would it be?
Ah this is such a hard question! I have a top 3: Mariah Carey, Stevie Wonder or The Weeknd.
What do you find is the most rewarding part about being a musician?
Being able to connect with others through music and tell a story that can bring people together and heal others.
And what is the most frustrating part?
Younger me would have said, “how the industry can be” or “hearing no” but older me thinks there’s nothing frustrating about doing the thing you love and you are called to do. Don’t get me wrong, I have hobbies and other things I love and enjoy. But being a musician, being an artist, it’s WHO I am. It’s who I have always been. It’s ingrained in me. So to me, there’s nothing anymore that can frustrate me about pursuing something that is such a strong part of me. Getting a “no” is a redirection. There are always more doors to be opened.
And what is the best piece of advice you have received as a musician?
Critic yourself but not to the point where you talk badly about yourself. Speak to yourself with love. Learn from each moment, each performance, each song and push yourself to always grow and improve while also celebrating all the steps you have made and continue to make. You can always grow as an artist.
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Giselle's new album 'Just Say Sorry' is out now. Check it out in the player below.