It’s hard to imagine the stunningly gorgeous Bebel Gilberto doing anything but grace the stage with her mesmerizing vocals. Daughter to singer-musicians João Gilberto and Miucha, this Grammy-nominated bossa nova princess from Brazil is now on her way to Singapore to steal hearts with her captivating brand of music. We find out what it’s like to be born into royalty.
What does it feel like coming from a family of musical legends?
Besides my parents, my uncle [Chico Buarque] is also a
singer/composer. It’s a real privilege. Growing up, I was exposed to music all
the time. My father is a genius. Unfortunately I am just a normal artiste,
though this is probably all I will ever do.
Oh, you’re just being modest. You’ve been in the industry a long
time. What are some of the important lessons you’ve learnt?
The
industry is very complex because all people can think about is how to sell your
work. In fact, when we create music, the last thing we musicians think about is
the money. But at the end of the day, you’ve gotta just grit your teeth to
survive, and keep working.
Who are some of your musical influences?
Sade has been a
major influence on me; sultry and soothing. Others would be Annie Lennox,
Prince, Joao Donato, Gilberto Gil, Donna Summers, Michael Jackson and Carlinhos
Brown.
You must know the best way to preserve your voice. Can you give us
some tips?
I try to sleep as much as I can. I’m married now and I
get to have the best company at home so I don’t go out. That helps. I drink lots
of water, exercise a few times a week and warm up my voice like other singers
do. It’s pretty common stuff. I also try to be happy because if you are happy,
things work out well for you onstage.
Tell us more about your latest album, All in
One.
It is an album that was made with good friends and has
romantic vibes. I was lucky to have been able to work with great producers like
Didi Gutman from Brazilian Girls, Mark Ronson, Carlinhos Brown, Daniel Jobim,
John King and Mario Caldato. They made my All in One.—Hidayah
Salamat