Gianfranco GFN: “We're living through a major turning point in the music world, but above all, in how we make music”
Switzerland-based songwriter and guitarist Gianfranco GFN is an artist I've kept tabs on for a while now. Tunes like When You Have Gone and My Sunday Morning have been constants on my playlists, and now Gianfranco has delivered the goods once again in the form of Boulevard de l'amour "Fall in Love". Jazzy, groovy, and soulful, it's just an absolute gem!
Thinking it was probably time to have a little chat with Gianfranco, I was thrilled when he agreed to an interview! Taking us through his over 40 years in the music business, why he believes we're living through a major turning point in the music world, and when we can expect to hear from him again, please welcome the hugely gifted Gianfranco GFN!
Thanks a ton for joining us, Gianfranco! We're super excited to dive in and hear your story. Now, for those unfortunate souls who have yet to discover your sound, what would you say they’re missing out on? How would you describe your music?
Hi everyone, I'm a musician who's been in the music business for over 40 years. I've known almost everyone! My music still breathes very organically, all made with instruments! My musical world is very '70s and '80s with good groove.
I've fallen extremely hard for your funky and jazzy new single Boulevard de l'amour "Fall in Love". It's just so fresh and lively. What do you want our readers to know about your latest release?
Those who listen to it will discover an incredible keyboard vibe from 1:14 onwards! This track was created with love in mind, and I added a great groove to the incredible melodies.
Now, I’m sorry to pose such a tough question, especially given the size of your discography, but if you could choose one song of yours to skyrocket to the top of the charts and achieve massive success, which would it be and why?
It's not easy, but if I had to pick, I'd say Bonnie & Clyde. Or, you can also hear a version done by a DJ! Apart from the lyrics, I wanted this track to be danceable, a special moment, and above all to let yourself go without a care in the world, to forget everyday problems.
Who would you put down as some of your biggest musical influences, and who would you ultimately credit for helping shape and mould your overall sound?
At first, it was classical and jazz, not forgetting the blues. Then musicians like Wes Montgomery and all the '70s music shaped my style.
If you were allowed to “steal” one song in the world and claim it as your own, what would it be and why?
If I'm an artist/composer, and therefore a creator, and I like to do this, I wouldn't like to “steal” one because I wouldn't feel ownership and, above all, the pleasure of having created it.
What are your thoughts regarding the music industry of today? And, if you could, what changes would you make to it?
Today, we're living through a major turning point in the music world, but above all in how we make music. For a musician like me who still knows vinyl and doesn't do digital or computer, what I would change is to select more music that has a heart, something alive! This side is missing more and more.
What, to you, is music’s role in society?
You can't live without music! It plays a very important role in our lives! It brings dreams, joy, and moments of happiness, even if the musical world has changed a lot. But the most important thing is to hear music again and again.
Thanks again for taking the time to talk with us Gianfranco! It’s been great getting to know you better! I have no doubt that there are many more songs up your sleeve, and I truly can’t wait to hear what else you have in store! In a broader sense, though, what do you hope for in your musical future?
First and foremost, I'd like to thank all the fans who follow me and believe in my music and who support me. I hope to be able to bring you pieces of my musical world for a long time to come, and don't hesitate to follow me on my website and social networks. I can also say that my album will be released on June 10. Stay tuned. Thank you.
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