Evolving roster of artists kicks off with LA-based producer, writer, multi-instrumentalist
Gibson today revealed its latest artist program, in line with the brand’s ongoing commitment to elevating new music from emerging musicians around the world. Beginning in January 2024 with Los Angeles-based multi-instrumentalist and producer Austin Sexton, the annual Artist Spotlight program will showcase an evolving roster of musicians who will be featured across Gibson global and international channels.
The Artist Spotlight program will provide fans with a new path to music discovery and expose the Gibson international audience to a vast array of innovative new music that reflects a diversity of genres around the world.
“Our global artist relations team has collectively spent decades at Gibson advocating for and supporting our artists and their music. At our core, we are music lovers, and we want to share that love of music with our fans,” says Beth Heidt, Chief Marketing Officer at Gibson Brands.
“Our goal with the Artist Spotlight program is to build connections through music. That’s what we do every day, and the Artist Spotlight Program is another way for us to build those connections and share our love of music.”
The first-ever Artist Spotlight Roster from Gibson features artists from North and South America and Europe, with artists from China and Japan coming onboard soon.
Throughout the year, Spotlight artists will be introduced across Gibson social and media channels, and their music will be highlighted through various collaborative moments in locations across the globe. Fans can learn more about Gibson Spotlight Artists by visiting their profiles on Gibson.com.
Who is Austin Sexton?
We sat down with Austin Sexton for a short interview to find out more about this talented emerging artist who has already collaborated with a diverse array of musicians, including Gibson signature artist Orianthi, who recently featured on Sexton’s single “Don’t Tell Your Friends.”
How would you describe your music?
“My music is a fresh take on alternative pop—80s undertones, Malibu evening guitar riffs, and Topanga Canyon bass grooves. I make music for you to have an experience to, and to feel deeply to. My personal goal is for you to either remember a time in your life by my lyrics, or look back and remember something that happened while listening.”
What is your favorite piece of Gibson gear?
“That’s hard—at first it was my Les Paul. Just picking it up, plugging it in and seeing where it took me always inspired a record. Now, I find myself writing on my J-45. For the price and sound it’s unmatched. I believe the J-200 is next for me though. But as far as the J-45 goes, as soon as you play a chord there’s a song to be written; it’s a very inspiring acoustic.”
What has been the highlight of your musical career so far?
“Probably production credits thus far, though I have performed with some very notable acts. I produced Charli D’Amelio’s single, “If You Ask Me To,” which was a big moment for me. However, I’ve played along side Ben Folds, JMSN, Snoh Aalegra, Travis Scott, Ty Dolla Sign, and several others. However, at this moment, it’s the record I just put out featuring Orianthi called “Don’t Tell Your Friends.”
What would be your dream artist or producer collaboration, and why?
“John Mayer. He’s inspired me since I was 12. Just the way he plays and is so free and open to ideas. I learned from him never to put too much pressure on a song, and understanding that if you’re fighting for the song, it’s probably not to be yours at the moment. Pharrell Williams is up there as well.”
What does being part of the Gibson Artist Spotlight program mean to you?
“It shows me that no matter how big your social numbers or social perception, good music gets to the people it needs to get to. The fact I get to work with this team almost feels life-changing and gives me, as a very hard-working indie artist, inspiration that anything is possible.”
What’s next on the horizon for you?
“The song I just released with Orianthi is moving very well. It’s an amazing song, you should check it out. On April 14th I’m dropping a new record that I’m very excited about, called “Loverboy.” Incorporating merch and shows more this year is also something I’m pumped about, so thank you for giving me a chance to put it out there into the world. Love you, Gibson!”
Follow Austin Sexton on Instagram to find out more.
