Check Out Gabriel Gravagno’s Story

Today we’d like to introduce you to Gabriel Gravagno. 

Hi Gabriel, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself
I started out as a dishwasher at the Mercury Cafe, an iconic Denver cultural landmark, community art space, restaurant, and venue. I worked my way up washing dishes for three years there until I became a bartender, and began to do some booking. Marylin, the owner, and one of my biggest mentors knew me since I was 5 years old and graciously gave me many opportunities at the Merc. I washed dishes while paying my way through school studying jazz drum performance. Eventually, Marylin gave me a Friday night residency hosting a jam session, and I have continued to do so for over a year now with some of the best musicians in Denver. It’s a safe space to learn and appreciate jazz and get real playing experience. It happens every Friday 6-9. 

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It definitely hasn’t. My parents were both classical violinists, so we were usually very poor, but I was richly surrounded by music my whole life. My mom taught me violin when I was 6, and I began playing drums and composing on the piano in high school. I had to work my way up in everything I pursued, and I’m proud of the opportunities I’ve created for myself. My father also passed away this past year from cancer, and I took care of him while in full-time school, working, gigging, teaching, and running my band Messenger Music Collective. 

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I’m a sideman gigging around Denver, and I compose and record my own music. I run a band called Messenger Music Collective, we put out an album a few years ago entitled “Special Delivery” on all streaming platforms, and I’m in the process of putting out my first jazz EP this year. I also work with many local bands and artists such as RnB singer IZ Divine, experimental art group Tansy Wine, funk and hip-hop artist West Hues, and singer-songwriter Emma Rose. I’ve also recorded with local funk band Fresh Fruit on their album “Independently” and with jazz guitarist Enmanuel Alexander. I’m known for my experimentation, and willingness to venture into the avant-garde, and I also love mixing my music with other art forms. Two examples I’ve done in that realm that I’m most proud of were improving a live score to a silent film screening at the Golden Arts Center, and composing the music for a performance art dance piece called “The Ballet of Masculine and Feminine Divinities” that sold out in the Mercury Cafe Dancehall. 

What has been the most important lesson you’ve learned along your journey?
Nobody is going to give you a life-changing opportunity, you have to create them for yourself. It takes hard work, passion, and creativity. Be here now, and make sure love is always your message. 

Contact Info:

• Email: ggravagno@gmail.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/messengermusiccollective/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/messengermusiccollective/      https://www.facebook.com/gabe.gravangno
• Youtube: https://youtube.com/channel/UCWTRsT8b9jcuqI6_ZdJRYZQ

Image Credits:
Tori Enyart