Castella by Dr. Gail Jhonson
Dr. Gail Jhonson
I discovered Castella through her music. On my radio show, The Pink Room, on Solar Radio/London, I play music from great artists, especially from my musical friends. Sandy Shore at Smooth Jazz Global sent me Castella’s music, requesting spins. Track after track, I was impressed with what I heard. Her voice is powerful and warm, and the melodies and choruses are catchy. I knew I had to collaborate with her! This is my interview with Castella about our collaboration.
What is the collaborative project between you and Dr. Gail Jhonson? Gail and I collaborated on a composition, On the Road to Your Heart, composed by Sheryl Aronson. Gail and Britt Prentice rearranged and produced the song. She called me to ask if I wanted to do a duet. It was an automatic YES! Gail challenged me to show a different side of my voice, making it a wonderful experience and an excellent recording. What was the process? Gail and Britt Prentice sent me a demo of them singing the song. I learned it and executed it in two sessions. We completed the song in one session but tightened up the music in a second session because I am such a perfectionist. Ultimately, it was a straightforward process, and my assignment was to execute Gail and Britt’s vision with my performance.
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Was it a different experience sharing musical ideas with a woman? Absolutely not! Gail is a well-respected musician. She is very collaborative. She listened to my ideas for the tune. My mentor and producer, Darryl Swann, thought it was cool that a woman had arranged and engineered the song. I did, too! Have you ever collaborated with women in critical positions in your business? Yes, indeed, I have! On my music journey, my daughter Cailyn Thompson is my manager, photographer, stage manager, and overall assistant. As a result, she has learned the music business. She speaks for me, when I am preparing for a show to assure that I have everything I needed, during photo shoots and performances. It has been beautiful growing my business with Cailyn on my team. Are you an entrepreneur? Yes. Five years ago, I launched Castella Music, my record label and production company. I manage all aspects of recording, distribution, radio promotion, and shows. Collaboration is the key to success. I work closely with my producer, radio promoter, and venue owners. I discovered that I am driven. I played it safe in my career, until music came. I have grown in ways I never thought I could because music is my passion! Would you recommend women collaborate more or less? Women should collaborate more! Ultimately, it’s about positive energy and relationships, regardless of gender. A mutual friend introduced me to Gail, and we connected, instantly. The positive energy was there, and we have a great friendship, now! I respect her gift, and I am in awe of her talent. The opportunity to be with her onstage is amazing. It’s a gift! I met many women in the music industry and am elated every time I get a call to work. I am always thinking of ways to collaborate with my sisters.
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