"My mom bought me this really cheap nylon string guitar when I was
14, and somehow I started figuring out Jimi Hendrix songs with it."
Unabashed yet humble, her answer to a common question reveals Gaby
Moreno in a nutshell. Immensely talented with a guitar and gifted
with a soulful voice beyond her years, Gaby hails from Guatemala,
but has called Los Angeles home since touching down in 2001. Since
her arrival Gaby's been constantly immersed in music and the
industry with a single minded goal: To become a successful
singer/songwriter mixing Spanish and English vocals while retaining
total artistic and creative control. Looking back on the past
decade, it's apparent Hendrix isn't the only thing she can figure
out.
Winner of the 2006 John
Lennon Songwriting Contest, "Maxell Song of the Year" via
"Escondidos" helped garner exposure and was a huge step in the
right direction. Her pace has quickened since, with songs like the
irresistibly funky "Greenhorne Man" being featured by television
shows such as ABC's "Lincoln Heights" and "Ghost Whisperer" and
MTV's "The Hills." She was then given the task to write the theme
song for NBC's "Parks and Recreation" which is now a staple in
scores of households across the nation.
It's only a matter of time before bigger things are set in motion.
KCRW's Nic Harcourt, the former host of "Morning Becomes Eclectic",
featured Gaby in an October 2008 podcast and bestowed the "top
tune" status for a day as well. He said he was "Caught by surprise
with its organic and understated feel. She sings beautifully both
in English and Spanish." This from a man who, in their own words,
helped musicians like Coldplay, Dido, and Norah Jones get on the
map and achieve stardom.
Pop culture aside, what truly matters to Gaby is whether her fans
and fellow artists respect and honor her work. The answer: Yes. In
August of 2009 Gaby toured along with established singer/songwriter
Tracy Chapman. Later in November of 2009, Gaby was thrilled to open
for the fiercely independent and adventurous soul, Ani DiFranco, on
an east coast tour. Such an impression was made that once again,
Gaby was invited back for another leg in late January of 2010. And
taking a cue from the most successful independent artist previously
mentioned, all of Gaby's tours have been without the aid of a
booking agent nor label, something she's animatedly proud of.
Whether she's belting an old Spanish romantic song or ripping up
funky blues inspired riffs, Gaby Moreno is on the rise. She's
excited for a new decade, new changes, and new challenges. She
can't wait to see you out there.