BY CARLEY SORRENT & MASON BURTON

Gina Brooklyn, a local musician, is working hard after her success in winning the Djooky Awards, an online international songwriting contest. This accomplishment has led Brooklyn even further down her career path, indicating a promising future.

Brooklyn has loved music since she can remember. Both of her parents are musicians, giving her an early start to the game.

“I’ve just been surrounded by music my whole life,” said Brooklyn.

Being immersed in the music of her family has affected her style. She has played around with different genres and techniques, using just about anything as inspiration.

“Sound is always defined by a producer…” she said, “I don’t think I’ve found a concrete sound [yet].”
Very recently, Brooklyn wrote “No More Hiding” along with co-writer Dan Epand. This song helped her win her award. The inspiration behind it was the idea of someone on the run. Brooklyn uses this imagery in her song to insert her message of self-acceptance and moving forward.

“As I was writing, I thought, ‘This needs to be about owning up to your mistakes and struggles, accepting it and moving forward,’” said Brooklyn. “I think it’s a very positive message because I feel like these days many people fall into self pity, and I would encourage people to own up to mistakes and push through.”

This is the song that won her the Djooky Awards on 29 August 2020. She got the opportunity to work with Brian Malouf. Malouf is a renowned producer who has worked with Michael Jackson, Queen, Madonna, Pearl Jam and more.

Brooklyn got to record a song with him: her newest single, “Be Kind” That has not been released yet. According to Brooklyn, taking that trip to California was incredibly impactful on her career.

“Coming here (Los Angeles) and being around people who get it… it’s wild and it’s hard to describe,” said Brooklyn. “Recently after winning this contest, I think it’s been a fairly big break.”

She appreciated gaining the benefits of her labor. The prizes from the award certainly helped her feel more accomplished.

“After working so hard, and doing so many different things to further my career, it felt nice to get the pay off,” said Brooklyn.

This is not to say that she prefers it to Wadsworth. After all, Brooklyn talks about how the bustle of the city makes you appreciate it all the more.

“My dad helps- he’s basically my manager,” said Brooklyn.
This family involvement impacted how she grew up. Brooklyn says it was one of the most affecting aspects of her career.

“When you leave and when you come back you will be able to appreciate it in a new light,” she said.
Brooklyn’s home remains with her family. In fact, her dad is very involved in her music.

“I can’t even imagine growing up in an unsupportive environment,” said Brooklyn.
Brooklyn was always advised to pursue a career in something she loves, not something that makes more money.

“You need to follow what you’re passionate about…” said Brooklyn. “I know too many people who are working at jobs that they absolutely hate… Life is too short not to.”