Words: Giorgia Gremese / giorgiagremese

Born in a strict Persian family and grown up in LA, Gia Woods / giawoods started making music when she was only a little girl, teaching herself how to play guitar and writing songs in her bedroom. Music is a “drug of choice” she said. Determined, energetic and talented, she is working her way to the top of the music world thanks to her strong personality and the power of the message she wants to convey to the LGBT+ community: “Move at your own pace, but move and don’t stop or look back.”

Her debut single “Only Girl”, released in 2015, marked the beginning of her career becoming viral with over 10 million views on YouTube. Now Gia Woods is more confident and mature, in the new EP “Cut Season” she finally demonstrates how bad experiences and past toxic habits made her the chaotic, extravagant and eclectic person she’s now. A bright and accomplished woman.

Watch her new music video for “All I Know”:

Did your writing change during quarantine? If so, in what aspect and how did it influence you?

My writing didn’t necessarily change (subject wise) but I've definitely been writing more. I've been doing a lot of soul searching and focusing on myself which has led me to write more in general. I think this time has been a blessing in disguise for us all. To be able to finally detach from so much clutter around us and focus on ourselves as well as pressing matters globally. It’s just been incredibly refreshing.

Your new EP “Cut Season”, out on October 9th, is the result of a long way of self-acceptance and growth. Where did you get the strength to get through this dark period, do you think music is the best medicine?

Music is definitely a “a drug of choice” if I may say… It gives me ups, gives me downs - and here we are. Having a passion for music allowed me to write out all of my past traumatic experiences and deep seeded emotions (and yess I know I'm dramatic) Writing is a journey, and throughout I've just been able to mature and come to my senses. Just… realising things, you know? ;)

Which song from the new EP do you recognize as yours? Is there any reasons why you’re particularly tied to this song?

Hm… Chaos?? Do I need to say more? It’s just an umbrella for a lot of past experiences that led me to where I am now. Everything at that moment in life was just, you know, chaotic.

When did you start writing and where did your passion for music come from?

I started writing when I was around 7 years old, I taught myself how to play guitar and was writing songs in my bedroom. My dad had bought a guitar for my sister originally but she never played it and I was always so mesmerized by it… Naturally you want what you don’t have, soo I picked it up and immediately became obsessed. I felt it in my bones. I was (still am) a huge Greenday fan and would teach myself all of my fave songs by them.

What artists are you most inspired by?

I grew up listening to whatever my sister listened to, she had a major influence on me and I looked up to her. Luckily, her good taste worked in my favor - and I guess yours and all other listeners as well. I listened to all kinds of music growing up and that's where I pull and feel most inspired by. I’m all over the damn place BUT, Madonna is my number 1...So I would say her, radiohead, green day, bjork, MIA, & coldplay are who I hold closest to my heart. 

Do you have a dream collaborator?

If I had to pick a current artist I would say The Weeknd. I’ve loved everything he's put out since I first heard his album Trilogy. His voice is mesmerising and the production really puts me in my feels. I'm a sensi gal, aren’t most artists?

How much does social media influence your life and relationship with your fans? What are the messages you want to send to young people who admire you?

I wouldn't say it influences my life but definitely has an affect on me. I personally don't love being on the internet but it comes with the job honey! I am active on most platforms but honestly, mainly to make my fans I feel personally connected and heard. Their messages and reactions are what makes it all worthwhile. Hearing from listeners or fans that I've helped them grow into their true forms and helped them gain their confidence melts my heart. Growing up I didn't have many friends or people I could open up to, so if I could do that for someone and help them in any way, I will. The world is a lonely place sometimes, and we have to figure out how to fight for ourselves and those who feel they like they can’t (even though they will soon realise they can).

Do you like to play with outfits? How would you define your style?

I love to play with outfits, are you kidding? Who doesn’t love to play dressup. I’ve recently taken a new turn in my styling with the help of my friend Ace Aroff. Together we’ve put together a mood that just feels like an elevated GIA. I love looking at old runway shows by Raf Simons, Helmut Lang, Gucci by Tom Ford etc. Think 90s/y2k pop princess but make it runway honey. Especially with releasing an album like this, i want to look and feel like the bad bitch i’ve always been meant to be.

What was it like to be featured in Calvin Klein’s Pride collection campaign?

A fucking dream… can I say fucking? I mean I couldn't believe it when I got the email...I've always been such a huge fan of Calvin Klein as a brand. From stealing my ex’s CK briefs to admiring old runway shows, I mean it's Calvin Klein!!!? I also love love love what they have been standing for and representing lately. Their message is loud, clear and unapologetic - like me, especially the loud part.

How did Gia Woods change over the years? What would today’s pop star say to yesterday’s little girl?

That’s a loaded question… There’s so much I would teach little GiGi… But most importantly I would tell her to be your best self, and everyone around you will follow. You do you first, and people will understand at their own pace. Whether its parents, friends or flings - Be true and those who really love you, will always love you. And on that note - confidence is key. How is someone going to believe in something that you don’t even believe in?

Your music is very personal and emotional. How did you learn to be comfortable with vulnerability?

By just diving into the deep end. If you live in fear or embarrassment, you’ll never learn what works and doesn’t work for you. I'm always evolving and trying new things, and along the way continue to make mistakes - but only to then learn from them. Be vulnerable, be open, show the world and yourself what you want and you will receive. It’s not an easy way to learn, but gets easier and pays off. You always have yourself, be your own best friend.

You grew up in a strict Persian household, did the relationship with your family change after you coming-out?

Its actually pretty crazy...When I first showed them my music video for “only a girl” (which is how i came out to them LOL), they thought it was only to get attention in the music industry or an “act.” Over time I've brought home girls I was dating at the time which I thought would secure the fact of me me being gay… BUT, there’s still a feeling of disbelief from them. They would refer to my girlfriends as “friends,” which would and still pisses me off. BUT I learned to just not let it get to me because I understand that they come from an older culture and it's probably just going to take time till they fully get me.

What advice would you give to those who feel oppressed by their family and society and are afraid to come out?

It’s a valid fear - but be honest. Cheesy, BUT, honesty is the best policy… unless of course it’s a little cosmetic lie to get you through the day - i think we all have those, no? But ya, my mom is still in denial, but I continue to be me and even in the public eye. I can’t care anymore, I have to feel at peace with myself. Although… I love my mom, and I am still sensitive to her views, I have to love myself unconditionally. SO. Advice: Move at your own pace, but move and don’t stop or look back. You got this and deserve to be your happiest. PERIOD

Is it normal to you to be called “queer”? How do you feel about labels?

Queer to me is a very broad word to be labeled by. I don’t care much about labels. What I like is what I like and won’t be changed by anyone else but myself. I celebrate being “queer” by living out my life how I feel I should. If people prefer a label I of course I respect that, but for me personally, it doesn't do much. We’re all human in the end right? Or fairies, aliens, unicorns, furries … whatever floats your boat.

Today can you finally say that you love yourself unconditionally and that you have found inner peace?

As much as i can at the moment, but I feel there will always be more to love and learn. I feel content and confident, and that’s what matters. Life is for learning and loving - yourselves and others. BUT, I have reached a true form and i couldn't love her more.

So far do you feel like you've got rid of toxic habits and negative people definitively? What does it mean to you to be free?

Uhhh. no, hahah. I have removed those that I know for a fact are, but one thing i have learned thus far, is that some people don’t grow with you. They grow apart. Friends/lovers/acquaintances all serve different purposes in your life, and some are temporary, where others are the ones you’ll love and fight for until you die. Like I said, i learned a lot, but i'm still learning as we all are. Im happy and loving life and that feels “free.” But I know damn well, some toxic person will either step in or show themselves sooner or later, but I know ill be prepared to step away when I need to. A lot of bad habits have been broken, but a lot of new habits have been made. Only time will tell whether they're the right ones for me or not… trial and error?

Your biggest fear?

Losing the people I care about the most. I love so hard and when that love is at risk, I feel fear. I’ve lost loved ones physically and emotionally - the heartbreak is unbearable. Inspiring, yes, but just something I can't even fathom. 

Do you want to fall in love again?

I’m finally at a point in my life where I'm falling in love with myself. But ya, i mean, falling in love is fun! Even though you’re being vulnerable and putting yourself at risk, it's still worth it. I mean look, I got a major EP out of it lol. We should all feel love.

What's the future got for you? What are your dreams?

Oooo girl. My future has gotten a whole lot brighter, that's for sure. I have solidified so many personal goals that I know I will achieve as long as I really want them. A Euro tour is def one and a grammy wouldn’t hurt? Now that I have my first pretty much album out, I feel unstoppable. I'm on fire baby. This is only the beginning for Gia Woods, watch out because i’m ready to run this.