We had the good fortune of connecting with Gelisasangels and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Gelisasangels, what role has risk played in your life or career?
When I started out, my identity was closely linked to a collective I belonged to. I picked up a lot about business and professionalism, but I lost touch with my creative side. I stopped releasing my own music, and after the group split up, I worried that my past with them would make it harder for me to get solo opportunities.

It felt risky to trust myself, but it changed everything. I quickly met people who believed in me and offered support I never expected. One of the biggest risks I took was putting out a song called “Business.” I originally made it just for a party and didn’t stress about it. I just knew I needed to show who I was on my own.

That choice really paid off. The song became the lead single for my project and one of my most-streamed tracks. Now, when I play it at parties, people actually know the words. More than that, it was the true start of my solo career. In 2024, that momentum brought steady bookings, and I ended up performing nearly every week all summer.

Looking back, I learned that taking risks isn’t just about hoping for a good result; it’s about believing in yourself. Once I did that, new opportunities started to appear.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My art is rooted in honesty, contrast, and a sense of freedom. I’m an alternative artist from Baltimore who mixes metal, Phonk rap, hip hop, and rock. I’ve always loved music that makes you feel a range of emotions at the same time, chaos, vulnerability, anger, or release. That blend, along with my drive to avoid being pigeonholed, is what makes me different.

Getting to this point in my career wasn’t easy. For a long time, I felt like music wasn’t a realistic path for me or that I wouldn’t be good at it. Even when people around me noticed my potential and told me I was talented, I didn’t believe them. I wasn’t a fan of myself yet. It took time to build confidence, trust my voice, and see my own potential. I also learned that when others see your potential before you do, it can leave you open to people who might try to take advantage, dim your light, or use your insecurities against you.

I’m most proud that I pushed through that phase and chose myself. I kept creating, learning, and showing up, even when I doubted myself. Over time, I grew more confident and comfortable with who I am as an artist and what I offer. One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is how important self-belief and boundaries are. Protecting your vision, your energy, and your growth is essential.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I’d take them to Little Italy downtown Baltimore. It’s really pretty at night, with lots of great places to eat, and it’s close to the movie theater. My favorite restaurant is Dukem because the atmosphere is great and the Ethiopian food is delicious. For drinks, I like Avenue Kitchen & Bar. They play the best ’90s music, and the servers are always top tier.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
My shoutout goes to one of my closest friends, FTP Karma. I always wanted to make music, but he was the first person who got me on a track and encouraged me to go after what I knew I could do, even when I was too nervous to try. He’s been making music since we were in middle school, and seeing how confident he is helped me find my own voice. He believed in me before anyone else did. He created a space where I could be open, vulnerable, and honest about a previous toxic relationship on an unreleased song. His support and belief in me played a huge role in helping me grow not just as an artist, but as a person.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gelisasangels?igsh=YXp6anpoNXo1NmRs&utm_source=qr

Soundcloud: https://on.soundcloud.com/X7CWEvV9RpsMpJ3ukj

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61550756737008

Youtube: https://youtube.com/@gelisasangels?si=Pdv9Ll3PFVXVRsiH

Image Credits
Kbsnapped

Y.U.B.S Photography

Whoisaiden

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