Today we’d like to introduce you to Gaby Cotter.
Hi Gaby, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
Hello, I’m Gaby Cotter, and my life is a melody that began in Panamá, surrounded by a family deeply rooted in music. Picture this: starting with me singing out my mom’s cherished tunes and losing myself in my dad’s massive collection of LPs.
Thanks to my grandpa’s stories, I started writing at the age of 5, I went from short tales to poetry and, finally, songs on my guitar at 14. Fast forward to 2007, I was, diving headfirst into formal music education at the University of Panama, exploring everything! From choral music and opera to jazz, salsa, musical theater. To teaching, songwriting, and recording.
In 2016, Berklee College of Music came knocking, so me & my husband turned Boston into our new musical playground. I took my tunes to Spain, Rome, and the lively streets of Boston. Also, let’s not forget my two more recent singles, “Sé Que Te Voy a Ver” and “Miento,” both well-received by audiences worldwide.
This year has been a rollercoaster for my career. Now based in Cambridge, MA with my husband, I run a Singing and Art studio. Beyond all the live shows, I remain a recording coach and session singer, contributing my voice to movie soundtracks, commercials, and backing vocals.
In addition, I had the honor of performing at prestigious festivals such as Wake up the Earth, the Cambridge Jazz Fest, Jazz in the Park, and The Tito Puente Latin Series. Joining the Boston Children’s Choir as the lead singer for the Big Sing event was a highlight, as was my live performance at WGBH Boston Public Radio. And the cherry on top? Artist residencies with Departure Arts and at the legendary Wally’s Cafe Jazz Club.
Moreover, serving as Voice Faculty at Berklee College of Music and taking on the role of Visiting Artist and Voice Instructor at MIT have been truly rewarding experiences!
Now, the grand finale. I’ve been preparing something really special – my upcoming album, “Cantora.” A beautiful blend of voice, flute, and piano, all set to drop in March 2024 to add extra sparkle to this already fantastic year.
We all face challenges, but looking back, would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Yes and No. Having my husband by my side has been an absolute blessing, smoothing out the bumps in the road with his unwavering support.
Our journey led us to Boston, primarily for my pursuit at Berklee, and he became my anchor, keeping our home a haven while assisting with my studies, and mental health, and whipping up meals not just for me but for anyone dropping by during lunchtime. Leaving our warm homeland meant bidding farewell to family, friends, and a thriving music career, taking a leap of faith into the unknowns of a vast and cold new city. Despite a tight budget (thankfully offset by a full scholarship), every penny was meticulously spent.
Throughout my Berklee years, I knocked on countless doors, and gradually, they began to swing open as my voice resonated and my performances captivated. More gigs, opportunities, travels, concerts, and collaborations followed after.
However, let’s not sugarcoat it – navigating mental health has been a persistent challenge. Yet again, my husband has been my rock. After spending several years in this city, I can proudly say that I’ve cultivated a beautiful support system – friends who have transformed into family.
So, dear reader, let this serve as a gentle reminder that it’s okay to seek help. You are cherished, you have a place on this planet, and you deserve all the goodness life has to offer. Your existence is valuable, and if you ever need a fresh start, know that you’re worth it. Speak up, as your mental health challenges are a part of who you are, not your entirety.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
In the heart of Boston and the surrounding New England area, you’ll find me pursuing my passion as a professional singer and songwriter. I often find myself humbled by the opportunity to share my music with diverse audiences, showcasing a range that spans Bolero, Bossa, Jazz, pop, R&B, salsa, and folk, and singing in languages such as Spanish, English, Portuguese, and Italian.
With my guitar or piano in hand, I weave stories into melodies, hoping to strike a chord that resonates with those who listen. While I’ve had the privilege of performing at renowned events like the Cambridge Jazz Festival and intimate settings like Sofar Sound shows, I approach each stage with a sense of gratitude and respect for the craft.
People seem to recognize me for a voice that’s both gentle and strong, and I can’t help but feel a sense of pride when I’m told that my performances carry an energy that transcends the ordinary. What sets me apart, if anything, is my deep connection to the lyrics I choose to sing. I’m somewhat particular about the music I embrace; for me, it’s not just about the tune, but the story it tells. The lyrics must have a soul, a narrative that makes you ponder — something that inspires me so that I, in turn, can inspire others.
Have you learned any interesting or important lessons due to the COVID-19 crisis?
The Covid-19 situation taught me some important lessons. It made me realize that the most important thing in life is connecting with others, whether through music, art, dancing, or just being together. I learned to say “I love you” more often because life is short, and we shouldn’t take time for granted. We humans are fragile, but when we connect with others, we become stronger.
In terms of my music career, Covid taught me to be strong and wise. I now spend my money carefully and invest in things that will help my career grow. The pandemic showed me the importance of being resilient and making smart choices in both my personal life and my musical journey.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.gabycotter.com
- Instagram: @gabycotter
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GabyCotterOfficial
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/gabycotter
- Youtube: @GabyCotter
Image Credits
Valeria Lam, Cesar Ziegler, Grace by Nia, and Evan Maricle
