Interview Exclusive: John Lennon Songwriting Contest Winner Gaby Moreno

JS: What’s the story behind your rendition of the inspiring Guatemalan national anthem?

GM: I recorded that in 1996 as part the 100th anniversary of our anthem and signing of Guatemala’s peace accords. It meant a lot to me and the history of the anthem is big part in my life since my Grandfather, Jose Maria Bonilla Ruano made some important revisions to the lyrics back in 1934.

JS: If you could choose anyone, who are some of the musicians or bands that you would love to jam or collaborate with?

GM: I wish I had been alive in the ’60s or ’70s to jam with some of my favorites- any Motown artist or Sly Stone would have been a blast!

JS: How do you generally try to describe your style or sound to those who have not heard you before?

GM: It is a very hard thing for me to describe, but what I usually tell people is that it is a little reflection of my influences in Soul, Blues and Rock. But even then I’m still not convinced so I just tell them to hear for themselves and let me know what they think!

JS: What would you describe as some of the highlights of your music career so far?

GM: I would start with moving to this country by myself to pursue a musical career. It was pretty scary at first but soon I found out it was the best decision I made. Making my first record has been by far the highlight of this past year- and then of course winning the John Lennon Songwriting Contest.

JS: How did it feel to win the John Lennon Songwriting Contest?

GM: It was incredible when I found out I won the Latin category, but when I got that call to tell me I won the entire contest, and was being flown to New York to do the big awards show (opening for Fergie), I was in shock. It was definitely one of those moments were you think you’re dreaming and you’re gonna wake up soon.

JS: Have you been compared or described as similar to any other bands or musicians that surprised you or made you laugh?

GM: I always think it’s interesting when people mention artists I don’t know of. Mazzy Starr was one of them. But it’s good because I can discover some new and really good music.

JS: Can you share any thoughts or ideas you have been thinking about for new songs/material?

GM: I’m being a bit ambitious at the moment, as I’m thinking of having at least 2 records out by next year. I’ve started to think about my 2nd album and where I want to take it. I have something else I’m excited about that I’m not sure I should talk about too much yet- all I’m gonna say is that it involves me singing old traditional Latin American and Brazilian music arranged by a legendary man!

Bonus clip! Gaby Moreno’s Wrong Side of the Road, performed live:

httpvh://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d-16nXavVcE

Stay tuned to Gaby’s MySpace to hear more: www.MySpace.com/GabyMoreno

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