REDEFINING WHAT IT MEANS TO BE AN INFLUENTIAL MUSIC ARTIST, OLLIE GABRIEL IS PERFORMING A NEW TURN.

PHOTO BY ANDREW MORALES, STYLED BY AL MALONGA

At a young age, Ollie Gabriel (@olliegabriel) knew he would be a musician. Growing up, the multi-genre singer, songwriter and producer Gabriel knew the power of music. From watching performers dance on stage, he was immersed in different genres, understanding the invisible spirit of music. Working on new musical sketches, Gabriel is showing the rest of the world the impact of his music. With the upcoming release of Wizard of OG, this musical genius is taking the industry by storm.

Where do you find your inspiration?

I find my inspiration from listening to life and people. The best songs are all around, waiting to be discovered. My job as an artist is to slow down long enough to capture the magic around me. Sometimes, I hear people talking about their lives, and the hook line will jump out in something they say. They won’t see it that way, but because I know what I’m listening for, I write something cool from that emotion. Other times, I am moved by a world event—but it’s always a feeling.

How would you describe your style?

My style is genre-fluid, authentic and soulful. I make it a point not to be confined to a genre box. Sometimes, the music comes out more R&B or hip-hop. Other times, it might be pop, soul or even country. The thing that ties it together is the truth in my music because I write from my experience and an honest place. My music always has the intention to impact my audience positively.

PHOTO BY ANDREW MORALES, STYLED BY AL MALONGA

What is your top favorite career memory at this moment?

I’ll never forget getting an Instagram message from a fan in Switzerland asking me if I could send a message to a girl he liked who was a big fan of my song “Running Man” and put in a good word for him. It worked! They went on a first date the next day, and fast forward to now, they are engaged and have a baby whom they made me a godfather of, and every birthday and holiday, I get cards and photos.

What is on your career bucket list?

I’m ready to show the world my acting chops and would like to become an EGOT someday.

PHOTO BY ANDREW MORALES, STYLED BY AL MALONGA

What future projects are you currently working on?

I’m excited to release a lot of new music from my Wizard of OG series; it’s a narrative music sketch show where I entertain as multiple artistic versions of myself. I’m also finishing a short musical film that I wrote, produced and directed entitled A Walk on the Earth that will be in film festivals next year. I am also working with youth development and helping make an impact within the intersection of education and media.

How did your pilgrimage across Spain influence your music?

My 635 walk across Spain inspired my latest philanthropic project. The pilgrimage, called the Camino de Santiago, was mostly about giving myself the time and space to unplug and detach from the noise of modern life. I spent 35 days walking through nature without a phone, just a backpack. It taught me how little I need for peace and happiness. I lost a few pounds, but more importantly, I could hear my voice again, and I learned how to just be.

What is one piece of advice you would give?

Remember that whether you can sing or play an instrument, everyone on the planet is creative. When we think of ourselves as creative, we naturally find more ways to have fun and enjoy what we are doing. So whatever you do in life, do it the way that lights you up, and constantly expect the magic to show up each day.