Why Gloc-9 Was Afraid of Releasing One of his Biggest Hits "Sirena" | Toni Talks

Summary

In this insightful interview, Filipino rapper Gloc-9 reflects on his 26-year career, from his start as a music researcher to becoming a renowned artist. He discusses the importance of perseverance, the influence of his idol Francis M, and the challenges of balancing his music with a day job as a nurse. Gloc-9 also shares his songwriting process, the significance of his hit 'Sirena,' and the emotional connection he feels performing for overseas Filipino workers, drawing from his own father's experience as an OFW.

Takeaways

• 🎤 Gloc-9, also known as Aries, has been in the music industry for 26 years, starting his journey in 1997.
• 🏥 Before his music career took off, Gloc-9 worked as a music researcher for Star Records, finding songs for movies and TV shows.
• 🎵 He began writing songs for films, including the theme for 'Jologs', which marked the start of his songwriting career.
• 💼 Gloc-9 emphasizes the importance of having a day job while pursuing one's passion, as financial stability can support one's dreams.
• 🎓 He studied Nursing in 2006, finishing his studies in 2010, and even took the board exam, although he didn't pass.
• 👨‍⚕️ His experiences in the medical field, including his time in a mental hospital, greatly influenced his songwriting, adding depth to his music.
• 🏆 Despite his fame, Gloc-9 values the impact of his music on people's lives over awards and recognition.
• 🌐 During the pandemic, he adapted to performing via Zoom, showing his resilience and adaptability as an artist.
• 🎧 The song 'Sirena' was inspired by a neighbor and the challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community, reflecting Gloc-9's commitment to telling diverse stories.
• 👨‍👧‍👦 For Gloc-9, the most rewarding part of being a rapper is providing for his children and giving them the life they deserve.

Q & A

How did Gloc-9 start his career in the music industry?

Gloc-9 began his career as a music researcher finding songs for movies and TV shows. He transitioned to writing songs when he was asked to create music for a Judy Ann Santos movie, which became an additional income source for him.

What was Gloc-9's first solo record?

Gloc-9's first solo record was with Star Records, which he joined in 2005.

How did Gloc-9's involvement with writing songs for movies begin?

Gloc-9 started writing songs for movies when he was tasked to find suitable music for films and TV shows. After realizing the cost and limitations of the available options, he decided to write a song himself, which was approved and marked the beginning of his songwriting journey.

What advice does Gloc-9 give to artists about having a day job while pursuing their passion?

Gloc-9 advises artists not to quit their day jobs while chasing their dreams because it provides financial support during the uncertain times of pursuing a passion.

Why did Gloc-9 decide to study Nursing?

Gloc-9 decided to study Nursing because he thought his rapping career had ended after his second album with Star Records. He went back to school in 2006 to have a fallback plan.

How did Gloc-9 balance his studies and music career?

Gloc-9 pursued his studies in Nursing and music simultaneously. He would switch from being a rapper at night to a nurse by day, even changing his attire in hospital hallways.

What was the inspiration behind Gloc-9's song 'Sirena'?

The song 'Sirena' was inspired by Gloc-9's neighbor Bridgette, who was gay and faced bullying. The song was written to provide a perspective of someone who, despite societal challenges, is a provider for their family.

How did Gloc-9 develop his fast rapping technique?

Gloc-9 developed his fast rapping technique by listening to artists like Bone Thugs-N-Harmony and practicing a specific breathing technique where he would breathe between syllables to maintain pace without breaking the flow.

What was the most rewarding part of being a rapper for Gloc-9?

For Gloc-9, the most rewarding part of being a rapper is being able to provide for his children and give them the life they deserve.

How did Gloc-9 feel about performing for Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs)?

Gloc-9 feels a deep connection when performing for OFWs, as his father was an OFW. He enjoys bringing a sense of home to them through his performances.

What was Gloc-9's experience like during his first performance after the pandemic?

Gloc-9's first performance after the pandemic was at the Dubai Expo. He was initially anxious and had to cram his set, but once he heard the crowd, his performance instincts returned, and he was able to deliver a successful show.