Urban Vault Interviews – GIN - Sonfapitch News and Blog

Urban Vault caught up with Los Angeles-based recording artist GIN for a second time to ask her some questions about her latest album release, C’EST LA VIE, and more…

GIN fell in love with Hip Hop at a young age and grew up in South East Los Angeles, which exposed her to the various elements of Hip Hop. She started in the industry as a promoter, organizing events and booking talent, and has worked with the likes of KXNG Crooked, the late/great Chino XL, and ONYX.

We last caught up in 2018, after the release of your album, ‘Spiritual Bars’, which was well received and led to the start of your touring internationally.
Can you tell us about your latest album ‘C’est La Vie’, the background, and inspirations behind it?
Yes, my newest album C’est La Vie means “That’s life.” The concept of the album and my music in general is that we all share similar experiences, and the message is to look at it with a positive outlook.
What’s your favorite track from the album, and why?
As an Artist, I love every track! But right now, I really like the song called ‘Bath Salt’. I got the beat from Baykan Barlas from Istanbul, Turkey, almost two years ago. I was in Turkey shooting music videos for my previous album, ‘La Dolce Vita’. Anyhow, when he showed me the beat, I immediately fell in love with it. I sat on it for a while thinking of what I was going to write for the track. During that time, I ended up meeting some guy, and he wanted to be in a relationship, meet my family, etc. This song is about him and what I went through. It’s really deep. I had to dig really deep within myself to write the hook, etc.
Can you provide us with an insight into the production process of your tracks and explain why you have chosen to combine Hip Hop and world music throughout your recent releases?
In regards to the production process, I contact the producers that I have already worked with to send beats, or I look for beats online. Once I have the beat, I put it on repeat for a while and start thinking of the concept and song structure. I am thankful to say that I work with producers all over the world, which is pretty cool. And I, A&R my own projects.
Hip Hop will always be my first love! But I am open. I grew up listening to all kinds of music, and when I started touring in South Africa, the locals there motivated me to explore Amapiano, Afrobeats, and Afrotech. So I kept that same formula. On the A side of my albums from ‘Birds of a Feather’, ‘La Dolca Vita’, and ‘C’est La Vie’, you’re going to hear World Music, and on the B side of those albums, you will get that Hip Hop dose. I just like doing both because it keeps me happy and also different.
You have traveled to & toured many places around the world. What country and fans stood out to you the most, and why?
This is a little tough because I love all countries. I think the country that stands out the most would be South Africa. The vibe, the people, the music, I just have a great time.
What have you got planned for the rest of 2025? Are you releasing new music or going on tour?
I just want to tour. I am looking at touring Fall 2025. I might come out with a new single this year. But for now, I just want to focus on promoting my new album and doing some shows.
Is there anything else you would like to say to your fans & our readers?
This is an independent effort. Every video, artwork, music, and its production comes from me independently. I really appreciate your support on streaming my music, subscribing to my YouTube channel, or following me on Instagram.
Thank you for your time and may you continue making dope, fresh music…