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.

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#PeepTheVisual: GNA Covers Brandy’s “I Wanna Be Down”

The post RESPECT. Interview: GNA appeared first on RESPECT. | The Photo Journal of Hip-Hop Culture.

Photo Credit: Instagram Post

We know you’ve heard of GNA’s latest cover/tribute to Brandy’s “I Wanna Be Down” and her latest single “Love Me.” She continues to deliver with her latest: a visual paying homage to Missy Elliott‘s classic hit “Sock it to Me.”  The visual has a ‘90s type vibe and swag. She reminds me of Brandy‘s Moesha period, when the R&B legend rocked her hat, braids and swag demeanor.

She has a background of theatre, and when she grew up she started to pursue her career in music — she’s since worked with Tory Lanez, Memphis Bleek and many more. We hope we get an album from the young star very soon; for now, peep the Toronto native GNA (or Gina) and her cover of Elliott’s “Sock it to Me.”

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#PeepTheVisual: GNA Covers Brandy’s “I Wanna Be Down”

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The post GNA Pays Tribute to Missy Elliott’s “Sock it to Me” Visual [WATCH] appeared first on RESPECT. | The Photo Journal of Hip-Hop Culture.

GNA hails out of Drake’s hometown of Toronto, CA. She’s one of the few female vocalists from her city, making a name for herself in the realms of R&B. Many respect her stylish fashion sense, that shows flavor versus her body shape, and her talent. She’s got a voice worth remembering and displays it on her brand new Brandy cover.

This is GNA having fun, creating dope vibes and putting her own spin on Brandy’s “I Wanna Be Down” remix. Not only does she tackle Brandy’s verse, she touches on Queen Latifah’s as well. Brandy has been one of GNA’s favorite voices in music, and feels it’s only right to pay homage. The remix was produced by Toronto’s T-NYCE and it’s inspired by the 90’s melody and the uniqueness behind Brandy’s smooth low tones.

GNA plans on releasing a host of new music in the upcoming months, so be on the look out.  Her resume consists of everything from acting to modeling. In 2013, she decided to propel her solo career alongside Toronto celebrity producer T-Nyce, who has worked with Tory Lanez, Kid Ink, YG, to name a few. GNA and T-Nyce have stolen the hearts of many enthusiasts who anxiously await her upcoming music. She is already causing an uproar of excitement from her fans. With GNA having a captivating and unique sound, the world continues to wait for her take over.

For now, peep out her new visual above and feel free to drop us your thoughts.

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The post #PeepTheVisual: GNA Covers Brandy’s “I Wanna Be Down” appeared first on RESPECT. | The Photo Journal of Hip-Hop Culture.