Interview with Grace Garland from United States

I have never wanted to do anything else! When people in my childhood would inquire "what I want to be when I grew up" I'd ALWAYS say: Singer or Actress!

JAZZMATCHMAKER is a niche indie label – in other words, it's mine to produce, me, just the way I believe I should be seen!

Don't OVERTHINK and remember to have fun. Find the humor in a what may be a stressful situation.

They establish a connection with the audience, focusing solely on that aspect—similar to how PINK does.

I leave my mind and spirit open to receive!

Best performance? Wow, I don't know if there is ONE! You hit the stage, play your heart out, and suddenly the audience vibes with you in a way you never saw coming. It's like you've stepped into musical heaven, and it's not just one performance but a bunch of them, all folded into your memories.

It makes good press, people pay attention and that makes my heart smile!

So far receiving recognition from the LIT Awards really impressed many people. I hope this will lead to new opportunities and performances. I now have a tangible recognition to show to people and it truly speaks volumes. I am very grateful to LIT Awards!

BUT YOU DO GOTTA was inspired by a true event! I was dead tired, almost ditched my regular gig, but that feeling of obligation pushed me to show up. The lyrics and melody were stuck in my head, wouldn't let go, until I connected with my songwriting buddy, Robin Radus. He totally got it, and that's how it all came to life!

Stay strong, focused and give yourself grace (no pun intended). The hardest task is to NOT give in to giving up! Don't fear taking a break if you need it. Most of all, everyone will NOT understand your vision for YOU, that's fine. Always stay true to yourself!

One artist who did, was the song-stylist Nancy Wilson, I had the pleasure of meeting her, and she gave me the extra boost of confidence. Although, I NEVER met him, it was quite an experience attending Prince's concert, it affirmed me to be authentically myself!

Miss Reba! Bruno Mars! Dolly Parton! Masa Takumi! (I know I'm forgetting some)

Don't allow anyone to convince you that you should not do what you LOVE, simply because they don't have the same dream!

All kinds of genres!

Diversity and inclusion!

A heartfelt thank you to: the incredible musicians I've had the pleasure of working with; my true friends who've been there through it all; the jazz-authors Debbie Burke and Sammy Stein; my awesome audiences everywhere; the unforgettable Anyway Cafe on 2nd Ave in NYC (though it's now closed); and a special shout-out to Anyway Cafe on Neck Rd in Brooklyn, where the booking manager and the staff are absolutely fantastic!