July 17th: Today's Feature

July

Gabrielle, born as Louisa Gabriella Bobb on July 19, 1969, is a renowned British singer and songwriter hailing from Hackney, London. Her musical journey began in 1993 with the release of her debut single "Dreams", which quickly soared to the top of the UK Singles Chart. This marked the beginning of a successful career that would see her release hit singles like "Going Nowhere", "Give Me a Little More Time", "Walk On By", and the popular duet "If You Ever" with East 17.

Despite a brief hiatus, Gabrielle made a triumphant return with the release of "Rise" in 2000, which not only became her second UK number one single but also led to her album of the same name claiming the top spot on the UK Albums Chart for three consecutive weeks. Her talent was further showcased with the song "Out of Reach" from the Bridget Jones's Diary soundtrack, which peaked at number four on the UK Singles Chart. In 2001, she treated fans to a compilation album titled Dreams Can Come True, Greatest Hits Vol. 1, solidifying her status as a music icon.

Born to parents from Dominica, Gabrielle was raised by her mother, Patricia, alongside her three brothers in London. She attributes her passion for soul and reggae music to her mother's influence. Despite facing challenges like ptosis, a condition causing the drooping of one eyelid since childhood, Gabrielle has persevered and carved out a successful career in the music industry. Her resilience in overcoming personal struggles like depression during her school years and choosing to pursue her passion for music after completing her A-levels is a testament to her strength and determination.

RISE to Fame

Gabrielle's debut in the music industry was nothing short of extraordinary. In 1993, she burst onto the scene with her self-written single "Dreams," a powerful anthem that seamlessly blended pop and soul. The song made an immediate impact, skyrocketing to the No. 2 spot on the UK charts within its first week of release. This incredible achievement broke the record for the highest-ever chart position attained by a debut single in the UK. Just a week later, "Dreams" claimed the top spot, where it remained for an impressive three weeks. The success didn't stop there, as the song also made its mark on the American music scene, breaking into the Top 30.

Following the massive success of "Dreams," Gabrielle continued to prove her talent and staying power with her second album, released in 1996. This self-titled sophomore album showcased her growth as an artist and solidified her status as more than just a one-hit wonder. The album's success was further recognised when Gabrielle was honoured with her second BRIT award, this time for Best British Female Vocalist. With her previous achievements setting the bar high, anticipation was understandably high for her third album, titled "Rise."

With the release of "Rise," Gabrielle once again demonstrated her ability to captivate audiences and deliver exceptional music. The album lived up to the expectations, receiving critical acclaim and commercial success. Gabrielle's unique blend of soulful vocals and catchy melodies resonated with listeners, solidifying her place as one of the most talented and beloved British artists of her time. Her remarkable journey from a young artist finding her identity to a seasoned musician with multiple accolades is a testament to her undeniable talent and dedication to her craft.

While Gabrielle has released several albums following Rise, it is undeniable that this 1999 masterpiece holds a special place in her discography. It not only solidified her position as a prominent figure in the music industry but also expanded her mainstream appeal. Rise served as a defining moment in her career, propelling her into the spotlight and making her a household name. The album's impact was far-reaching, as it not only showcased Gabrielle's unique and stylish singing style but also introduced a collection of signature songs that have become synonymous with her musical identity.

The collaboration with both familiar and new talents brought a fresh perspective to her sound, resulting in a collection of songs that are both captivating and emotionally resonant. Even though Gabrielle has continued to release music beyond Rise, this album remains a standout moment in her career, forever etching her name in the annals of music history.

A Dark Turn

Gabrielle, a devoted mother, welcomed her son into the world in 1995, followed by her daughter in 2003. Her journey as a mother began in 1992 when she was in a relationship with Tony Antoniou, the father of her son. Unfortunately, their relationship took a dark turn when Antoniou was arrested and later convicted for a heinous crime. Despite the turmoil, Gabrielle remained a pillar of strength for her children, shielding them from the harsh realities of the situation.

In 1996, Gabrielle faced a life-altering situation when her son's father, who had left her from right after their child's birth, was convicted of killing his stepfather. This shocking news not only affected her personally but also brought unwanted attention to her as a public figure. Despite having no recent contact with her ex-partner, Gabrielle found herself entangled in the media frenzy surrounding the tragic event.

The aftermath of the incident led Gabrielle to make a tough decision to step away from her music career temporarily. Taking a hiatus allowed her to process the emotional turmoil and navigate through the challenging circumstances she found herself in. It was a period of introspection and healing for the singer, as she grappled with the repercussions of her former partner's actions and the impact it had on her life.

To Rise Again

However, Gabrielle's resilience shone through as she made a triumphant comeback with her album "Rise" in 1999. The title of the album seemed fitting, symbolising her ability to overcome adversity and emerge stronger than before. "Rise" not only marked a successful return to the music scene for Gabrielle but also became her most successful album to date, showcasing her talent and unwavering spirit in the face of adversity.

Gabrielle's story is not just about her extraordinary rise to success, but also a powerful reminder of a mother's unconditional love and unwavering commitment to her family during dark and troubled times.