RESPECT. Interview: GNA

Photo Credit: @just_gna Screenshot Instagram page

We know you’ve heard of GNA — or “Gina” — by way of her previous cover of Brandy’s classic single “I Wanna Be Down.” A native from Toronto, Canada, GNA was inspired by music from her entire life. We recently caught up with the rising star, who spoke about her EP, The Score, that is in the works, what her name means and her latest single, “Finga.”

RESPECT.: What does your name mean?

Well my name is Gina. I just took the “i” out of it and spell it Gna. So unfortunately there’s no “special” meaning (laughs), but I do love the conversation that it starts.

RESPECT.: With the first cover you did of Brandy’s “I Wanna Be Down,” did you think you would blow up from that?

As an independent artist, you always release music hoping it reaches optimal success. When I released The “I Wanna Be Down” cover, it was no different. Although it was simply just content, I released it to gear my fans up for the release of my new music that was coming.

RESPECT.: Who inspired you to do music? What artists have you listened to while growing up?

I think growing up I’ve just always been around music; so essentially, I just fell in love with the art of it. From watching music videos from artists like Michael [Jackson], Missy [Elliott], Busta Rhymes, and the list goes on by seeing how cinematic and creative they really got me. Growing up, I was listening to a wide range of artists and music. From Reggae to Hip-Hop and R&B and many more. My most inspirational artists were people like Missy, Michael, TLC, Beyoncé, and Mary J. Blige.

RESPECT.: Will there be an EP coming out or in the works?

Of course. I actually just wrapped up my EP, The Score, which is set to release late this Summer. I’m extremely excited about the release, and with my catalog being so big, I already have plenty of songs that I plan on using towards my album.

RESPECT.: I love your remix of Missy’s “Sock It To Me.” Are we going to have something similar to that on a future release?

Missy is one of my inspirations; so I’d like to think I’ll definitely have that similar vibe on the EP.

RESPECT.: What is your definition of RESPECT.?

I see it as a form of admiration. By knowing the worth of someone or something and never trying to give them less than what they deserve. It’s love and trust. Respect is earned.

RESPECT.: What is next for you?

Well I’m fresh off the release of my new single “Finga,” so I’ll definitely be working on that, shooting videos, and performing and releasing even more music this Summer.

I definitely have more music on the EP with similar vibes and also have dope features on them. So, I am super excited about that. As for the visual, it is definitely on the way.