Check Out Sarah Gibson’s Story

Today we’d like to introduce you to Sarah Gibson

Hi Sarah , we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
My love for music all started when I was in elementary school and I watched “Phantom of the Opera” for the first time and became obsessed. The haunting vocals and intense instrumentals captivated me, sparking a deep love for music and art as forms of expression. I vividly remember singing “Angel of Music” to my first-grade teacher during recess, and when she cried, I realized for the first time how music could evoke emotions in others, not just in myself. From that moment on, I began to sing more often, feeling a sense of freedom and confidence, without judgment. I would spend hours singing along to my iPod Nano while swinging in the backyard of my childhood home.

In middle school, I joined the school band. After testing different instruments, I brought home a saxophone. One of my favorite memories is coming home after school, sitting next to my father at the piano, and improvising with him. Even as a beginner, I followed his chord changes by ear, learning to play intuitively. That moment has stuck with me as a defining experience in my musical journey.

As I grew older, I began posting snippets of original songs on social media, slowly building a following for my music. I later studied film scoring at Berklee and now play several instruments, although my voice remains my primary instrument. I love singing blues, jazz, and rock.

A few years ago, I started Saranade, a business where I offer original art, handmade items, and t-shirt designs. Our slogan is “artfully crafted, musically inspired,” and the support I’ve received has been incredible, allowing me to stay true to myself. Every day, I feel like I’m becoming more of the person I’m meant to be.

My significant other, Derek Thomas, and I moved to Nashville from Florida about a year and a half ago and we are blessed with the energy and admiration for music here. When we shot the music video for my song, “Long Way Down,” he did the guitar parts. Being with someone who has the same love for music as I do is inspiring every day.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
The road hasn’t always been smooth, but then again, is it for anyone? That’s the beauty of life’s journey—without the ups and downs, I wouldn’t have learned as much as I have. Pain has taught me to appreciate the happiness I now feel. Finding yourself as an artist is a complex process, requiring acceptance of who you are and an understanding that each of us brings a unique perspective. The choices we make today shape how we interact with the world tomorrow. While it hasn’t been perfect, I wouldn’t change a thing. I’m proud of who I am today, and I’m grateful for the challenging moments that have shaped me. I also owe so much to my family and the people who have supported me through it all.

From being approached by record labels in high school to making the decision to stay true to my sound, it’s been a tough but fulfilling journey. Navigating social media and building a broad audience has been another challenge—you never know if people will truly accept you. Thankfully, I’ve been lucky to have a supportive community, and I’m grateful to share my creativity with the world.

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I specialize in both music and painting. Through Saranade, my online store, I offer original art collections—all hand-painted by me—along with music-themed t-shirt designs. I also write and perform original music, primarily in rock, blues, and jazz. Earlier this year, I released my first song, *Long Way Down*, and the response has been overwhelming.

Over time, sharing my music on social media has helped me build a following as a multi-instrumentalist and versatile singer. The immediate feedback has pushed me to grow as an artist.

Music and art are deeply connected for me, serving as both an escape and a way to express myself. Whether I’m playing the piano for hours or getting lost in a painting, it’s all part of my creative process. When I paint, I listen to music that matches the vibe of the piece. For my Jessica Rabbit art collection, I listened to female jazz singers, and for a cello-inspired painting, I played Yo-Yo Ma. Blending sound and visuals allows me to create a deeper expression of emotion.

Can you talk to us about how you think about risk?
I believe that everything in life comes with a certain level of risk. My advice: follow your heart, and get comfortable with being uncomfortable—that’s where growth happens. The biggest risk I’ve taken is staying true to myself. I’ve faced rejection for it, and I’ve also been praised, but at the end of the day, what matters most is that I’m happy with who I am. Life is too short to worry about others’ opinions. If you truly want something, failure isn’t an option because you’ll find a way to make it work.

Rather than focus on what could go wrong, I always ask myself, “What if it goes right?” I’m a hopeful and optimistic person, but that doesn’t mean things always go according to plan. When they don’t, I reflect and learn from the experience. I wouldn’t say I’m a risk-taker; I’m more of an opportunity-seeker. And if things don’t work out perfectly, I see it as a chance to grow and move forward

Contact Info:

• Website: https://saranade.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sargibson
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@sargibson
• Other: https://open.spotify.com/artist/45LFjYu6eyHwDv4S1Ykx7F?si=e0zKs3mwTvGVv29R3d_TvQ