Utah singer, Cera Gibson, had a very busy 2024. She released numerous new songs, played an event, and continued releasing content. Check out what all Cera had to say when she sat down with BareBones Ent in late 2024.
BBE: I think you have a great voice. Is this always the style of music that you wanted to make or has it developed over time?
CG: Thank you! My style of music has changed quite a bit over time and is likely to evolve further. I actually started out making blues rock and grunge music, but after a less than positive recording contract, I decided to pivot to pop music, which is the vein I’ve lived in the last 7 years or so.
BBE: What is it about music that excites you and keeps your creativity flowing?
CG: Music is my favorite medium of art because you can say anything. You can embody anything. We live in an age where visual media is king, and though it has its place in elevating the music, or working as a promotional tool, I still feel the mental word you can create through music is elite. I love writing something that evokes strong mental imagery. That’s what continues to motivate me.
BBE: You released your 3rd single of 2024, “Eclipse”. How did that song come together for you?
CG: This song has a funny origin, as much of my recent work does. Early April 2023, I was scrolling through instagram during a solar eclipse and I saw a meme that said something like, “If I text my ex, I’m blaming it on the solar eclipse.” I thought this was a really fun premise, so I opened Chat GPT and asked it to write me a song about blaming the solar eclipse for hooking up with your ex. As you’d expect, a 5th grader has more creative prowess than ChatGPT, but I was just looking for a laugh. I had no intention of utilizing it to actually write a song. While I’m reading through, cringing at the generated lyrics, one line stood out to me, “It’s just the eclipse, I swear. Not ’cause I want you there. Lost in darkness, unaware. Craving your comfort, I can’t bear.” Absolutely awful, still, “It’s just the Eclipse” had a bit of a ring to it. From there I sat down at my keyboard and started noodling. Eventually “It’s just the eclipse I swear,” became “Don’t make it serious, it’s just the Eclipse,” and the song was born.
BBE: You premiered the song at the Mind The Gap Music Festival. What was that experience like for you?
CG: The experience was incredible. An absolute beast to organize and put on. It was the first performance where I incorporated not only back up dancers, but a full costume change halfway through the set. I have never worked so hard on anything in my life, but the result was clear. To headline my first festival, premiering my music, is something I’m deeply grateful for.
BBE: How did the crowd respond to the song?
CG: “Eclipse” has been a fan favorite for over a year, and this time was no different. The backup dancers, and custom dress really elevated the whole thing.
BBE: What is a Cera Gibson show like?
CG: Whether it’s just me at a queer club, drag or variety show, or the entire band, my goal is to seduce the audience. My music ranges from pretty low tempo, synth driven and introspective, to all out rock, but all of it feels like me. I try to do the same with my performances. Even in the biggest rooms, with the most flamboyant costumes, I am there for you. I am looking in your eyes. I am singing to you, and that never changes.
BBE: Along with the release you released a music video for the song. The video looked really cool. What was it like filming this video?
CG: The video was a fever dream. Me and the director Alex Vaughn spent about 4 months on pre-production before we ever even stepped foot in the studio. This was the biggest video I’ve produced, and you can see it. I actually sewed some of the costumes and set pieces. I’d like to say that the beauty of it was all thanks to my ideas and artistry, but the team on this was phenomenal. Alex and I have worked together once before on my music video for “Sad Bitch”, so I knew she was perfect. It’s rare to find someone who you’re completely creatively aligned with. Without Alex, Bentley Rawle the DP, Drew Tekulve the colorist, Jasmine Stack the choreographer, BreeKel who designed my gown, and many many more, this wouldn’t be what it is.
BBE: The video sees you wearing various outfits throughout it. Is there one in particular that you especially enjoyed? Why?
CG: My favorite piece is the custom, multi piece gown that BreeKel designed and crafted for me. It has two skirts and removable sleeves. You actually get to see it evolve throughout the video.
BBE: What is the best way for fans to chat with you, and keep up with your releases?
CG: I would discourage fans from reaching out to me via DM, as I have those highly filtered and rarely check them. Twitter is where I feel most comfortable engaging with people, and would love to chat with people there.
BBE: Anything else you would like to add?
CG: I would just like to thank everyone who has supported me over the last few years, but especially this one. That includes family, friends, my boyfriend, my team and all my followers. This road has been long and difficult, but it’s made all the more worth it because of the people on the ride with me.
