The powerhouse of talent Gen Maldonado has set the spirit high for her contemporary performers by releasing her latest album ‘You Belong’ which consists of eleven tracks, nine originals, and two covers. The album begins with a re-created version of ‘It’s Raining Men’. The spotlight shines on Gen as she spreads her charm with her energetic and victorious performances. The soul singer of New York keeps her audience excited and contented. We recently got a chance to chat a little with the immense talent herself and this is how it went –
DMR: Firstly, Ms. Gen Maldonado let me congratulate you for your massive success on your latest dropped music album ‘You Belong’. How are you enjoying being the current internet sensation?
Gen Maldonado: Since my debut album “You Belong” was released on August 25th, I have received such a generous amount of acknowledgment and positive feedback. The internet is a leading platform for artists and overall I feel absolutely thrilled that my name is circulating successfully. I am grateful for all of the love and support I continue to receive on a daily basis.
DMR: What inspired you to create this magnificent album?
Gen Maldonado: This album was inspired by a series of synchronizations that I encountered with songwriter and producer David Todd Singleton. Back in February, I was headlining one of my shows called “A Tribute to the Divas” onboard a luxury cruise line. David happened to be on that particular cruise and in the audience that evening. In the middle of my show, I asked the audience “Are there any songwriters in the crowd”? David raised his hand, stood up and made an unimaginable promise that he would write me a hit song. Well here we are, with not only a hit song, but a big time hit album!! The album is titled “You Belong” because we feel that there’s a place in this world for all musicians and artists out there trying to make it. I am lucky to have such a wonderful journey with David. He believed in me every step of the way. I think the inspiration for the album came from knowing that we were meant to do great things together and understanding and appreciating the feelings we were having for each other musically beyond our control.
DMR: Share some of your experiences from the time when you were working on the album.
Gen Maldonado: Working on the album was an incredible experience. I’d say it was a learning curve as well. Pure dedication, determination and professional drive kept me inspired during the creative hours. Recording was an opportunity for me to reach new heights and I believe I did. You really start to listen to things differently when you’re working in a studio setting. We laughed, we cried, we got chills…but most importantly, we succeeded! The outcome of this album is a victory and far better than I ever imagined.
DMR: How was your life before you became a sensational one? Enlighten us.
Gen Maldonado: I have been lucky enough to have a pretty amazing life so far. I’ve been traveling and singing professionally for most of my life and I’ve gotten so many opportunities along the way. But like most artists, we go through periods of struggle. I’ve learned to utilize that time to reinvent myself and be patient in knowing that success is just around the corner if you fight hard for it. Life is all about figuring out who you are and that takes time. I am very grateful for the rejections and failures I’ve overcome on my journey. They’ve certainly helped shape me as a woman and as an artist.
DMR: Are there any upcoming projects you are currently working on?
Gen Maldonado: I am always working on and learning new music. Currently I am in the process of writing a new headliner show that will be featured world-wide. I am creating new musical arrangements and expanding my wings a little. I am continuing my pursuit to become a Broadway star, a big time actress in Hollywood and most of all, a Grammy Award winning Artist. The goals are in place and I am more motivated than ever.
DMR: What is it about music that makes you feel so fascinated?
Gen Maldonado: Music is therapy for the soul and therefore it is the most fascinating gift we could ever receive or give. When I perform live, I am only successful if I’ve connected with the audience. There is something so powerful about music as a whole. When you peel back all the layers and really truly listen, you can appreciate it so much more.
DMR: Your fans are really curious about your creative process when you work on a new track.
Gen Maldonado: Each song that we recorded on this album was different and required unique characteristics, deep feelings and emotions. When singing into a microphone with no audience, you have to be creative and make sure that every word is believable. You have to deliver the best vocal performance you can. Once the delivery is made and captured, listeners can enjoy the truth in the songs and in each note sung with love and passion.
DMR: What is the best word of wisdom another musician passed on to you?
Gen Maldonado: “All you can do is your best”!! Pretty much. The music industry is truly the best life you can have, however there can and will be challenges along the way. Striving to be perfect all the time, looking your absolute best, comparing yourself to others, thinking your performances weren’t great, judging yourself…These are all things that could cripple you if you’re not careful. Like Whitney once sang “Learning to love yourself, it is the greatest love of all”. And so I have learned to love myself and trust myself. I will continue to do my best – because that’s all I can do!
DMR: How do you handle your success as well as failure?
Gen Maldonado: I’ve learned to manage success by taking some time for myself. Whether it be a bike ride, a nap or a movie, I just like to be with myself and clear my mind. Having that balance is extremely important to living a healthy and happy life. Managing failure is never fun, but always obtainable. Failures are lessons to be learned and if you listen closely, you’ll find the answers within you. Patience is key. Be kind to yourself and know that failure is also a wonderful opportunity to learn and grow.
DMR: Do you follow any rituals before performing to get rid of the nervousness?
Gen Maldonado: Before I perform a show, I usually take a few deep breaths and look myself straight in the eye and say “Girl, you got this…Put the crown on and go”! It took me years to get this place though. I would want to be perfect all the time and my nerves got the best of me. However, now I am excited to share my gift of music with audiences all over the world. I feel honored and proud to entertain. It’s exciting!
DMR: Are you planning on collaborating with another musician?
Gen Maldonado: I would love another collaboration. I have a few things on the horizon, and I am always open for new opportunities and learning curves. Should anything wonderful come my way, I will be ready and willing to work hard and commit to being the best I can be. I’m looking forward to what the future holds.
DMR: Would you like to share one piece of advice with all the artists who are struggling to make their names in the industry?
Gen Maldonado: If I could give someone struggling in the industry a piece of advice, it would be to stay true to yourself, love yourself and take care of yourself everyday. Our minds often drift away to places of doubt and fear. I’ve learned throughout my journey that if we love who we are – past, present and future – only then can we enjoy life. And if we enjoy life then that’s all that really matters. Music comes natural to all of human kind. And if you know you are one of a kind and believe in yourself, you’ll get to your destination.
Follow Gen Maldonado: Instagram//Facebook//Spotify
Album Link :
https://genmaldonado.bandcamp.com/album/you-belong
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