Today we’d like to introduce you to Ataia Gabriel.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
My story begins in New York, I grew up to a rough environment. My father was an alcoholic and my mother was working full-time to keep a roof over our heads. My brother and I helped each other during this time – in fact, he was one of the reasons I began to pursue music. It was my escape from the toxic environment we were surrounded by. He would actually make me hold concerts for our friends in the neighborhood and push me into rap battles, haha. That’s actually how I started writing music. It was an escape from the Chaos in my home life, every time there was a fight, I would sing or write and that was how I created my own little world. It’s what kept me going, so I knew that it was what I was meant to do in this life.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey have been a fairly smooth road?
No, like I mentioned my early years were a bit atrocious. I dealt with sexual and physical abuse from an early age, as well as a lot of loss. Thankfully though, all that pain led me into the path of music. I knew I didn’t want to end up like most of those who surrounded me so it built a resilience in me for this type of career, honestly. I definitely deal with rejection/ judgment on the daily but when you get that “yes” it really makes everything worth it.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I am a singer/ songwriter who writes for tv, film, commercials, other artists…etc. I’m most proud of some of the songs I’ve gotten to be a part of, it’s crazy when you use to listen to certain people growing up, then suddenly you’re in the same room with them. Definitely a surreal moment.
I would say what sets me apart from others is my story and the fact I also bring Palo Santo to sessions. Haha. No, in all seriousness, I would say it’s my story and my intentions behind everything I create. I just want to help and be a light for those who have a similar story and don’t see a way out.
Where we are in life is often partly because of others. Who/what else deserves credit for how your story turned out?
Yes, definitely. My dad from a young age always instilled in me that I could make my art into a career. He taught me most of what I know, then after he passed my brother and my mother, both pushed me to continue when I was thinking of taking an opposite route. I owe everything to them really, I don’t know where I’d be if they didn’t believe in me the way they did. I also wouldn’t be here without my amazing team who has pushed me throughout the years- they have believed in me endlessly. I am very lucky to have the people that I do in my corner.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ataiaofficial/?hl=en
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ataiamusic
- SoundCloud: https://soundcloud.com/ataia
Image Credits
Sara Kiesling
