Y1 E8- Gail Baker - Messages, Notes and Rhythms

 Gail Baker

All images are courtesy of the artist.

The musician, Gail Baker

My name is Gail Baker. I create and perform music. I am a singer, songwriter, guitarist, recording engineer and producer. I have been a professional musician for over 60 years. I have recorded six CD’s/albums and appeared on various other recordings during my career. I have toured with pop, rock, jazz, gospel, reggae and world music groups. Currently, I am working on a new recording project. Most of my writing is in the genre of world music. I love the movement in the rhythms of the Caribbean, South America, and Africa. I try to include positive thoughts and feelings into the pieces I write but I do include social commentary. 

I am from suburban Chicago and received a degree in Journalism from the University of Missouri. My ability to write kept me fed during the ups and downs of my musical career. 

Hi Gail - I am absolutely thrilled to have you here today. I've been following your work for a long time and am such a fan. Let's jump in--

What do you love about making art/music?

I love bringing ideas to life through music and sharing them not only with other musicians but also with listeners. Some of my most trusted critics do not play an instrument or sing, but they hear and understand music on a very deep level. I love the challenge of creating for those who really listen. 

How do you evaluate your work?

I am my worst critic so I field test my work with other musicians and even casual acquaintances to watch for reactions and levels of engagement. I strive for a meaningful contribution to art/life. 

Where is your studio, and what is your primary work area?

My studio is in my home. I have built an acoustically designed area with a full complement of instruments and recording gear. 

What clues or questions do you use to select an idea to invest time and resources?

I garner ideas from how I react to (and how others interact with) society, relationships, personal dreams and fantasies.

"Success is so elusive.
Continuing to create is my only measure."

About your work: what do you hope people notice the most?

I hope people notice the message carried within the notes and rhythms. I also hope they notice a good, positive feeling in their listening experience. 

What is your favorite guilty pleasure?

My most guilty pleasure is discovering an exciting new song, musician, or band and bingeing on their music for days. 

How do you define success as a creative? How do you hold yourself accountable?

Success is so elusive. Continuing to create is my only measure. I submit my music to various grant organizations on a regular basis in an effort to participate in the artistic community and to challenge myself. 

What advice do you have about throwing away work?

I never throw away work. Some ideas just don’t bear sweet fruit. I archive them.

How can people follow you and your work?

 My work with Zebula Avenue is on Apple Music, Spotify, and YouTube.
Earlier videos on SweetMayamusic.com. 

What are you working on?

I am currently pre-recording my original material in my home studio - preparing for my next release. I hope to have ten songs ready for a professional studio by next spring. 

Working in the studio

What would you like people to know that I haven't asked?

I survived working in a Detroit studio when Detroit’s own Parliament-Funkadelic was in residence. George Clinton, Bootsy Collins, and occasional visits from Sly Stone. Crazy, talented, and hard-working musicians.

I can't thank you enough for taking time out of your schedule to talk with me/us, Gail. This brings back such good memories. Please come back whenever you have something to share with the ChC audience!

Full disclosure: I was one of a few backup singers fortunate to sing and record with Gail over the years. What a joy!