“My hope is to give others what my songwriting heroes have given me over the years”
Now in its second year, the Gibson Artist Spotlight program showcases an evolving roster of musical talent across Gibson channels globally. Following recent additions, The Saint Cecilia, ARXX, and AfroDiziac, the latest artist to join the program is Charli Adams.
Hailing from Alabama, Adams relocated to Nashville at 17 years old and threw herself into the local scene, focusing on writing songs for herself and others. We caught up with Charli to find out more about her music, favorite gear, and upcoming projects.
How would you describe your music?
“The music I find myself inspired by is endless, so I think my music has taken different shapes sonically over the years, but the one thread has always been songwriting. I started making music to make sense of my life and the hard lessons it teaches you. At times, it’s been the only outlet I’ve had to turn very personal emotions or experiences into something less individual. I think it gives me a sense of belonging, and I feel a bit less alone. I guess my hope is to give others what my songwriting heroes have given me over the years.”
What is your favourite piece of Gibson gear that you own?
“The first guitar I fell in love with was my J-15 acoustic. It was the first guitar I bought myself in 2016. It has such a beautiful low-end resonance and matches my voice in a really special way. I’ve written almost every song I’ve released on that guitar.”
What has been the highlight of your musical career so far?
“I went on my first headline tour early this year after taking some time away to write a new record, and was a bit nervous about the turnout. Every night, I was stunned at how many kind and wonderful people showed up. The shows reminded me of why I do this. It’s one of the only things that makes this job feel real, especially in the digital age.”
What would be your dream artist or producer collaboration, and why?
“I’d love to write a record with Deb Talan from The Weepies; her lyricism has been such a guiding light over the years. She’s truly one of a kind, and that’s rare. I feel so aligned and inspired by the way she writes in such a deeply personal way while leaving room for the listener; it’s masterful. Her songs tend to find me right when I need them, and I’m forever trying to return that favor back to the world as a thank you.”
What does being part of the Gibson Artist Spotlight program mean to you?
“When I got the call, I couldn’t believe it. It’s a massive honor. I’ve taught myself guitar since day one and have always seen it as a means to write. As a young woman moving to Nashville from Alabama at 17, I was pretty intimidated to call myself a guitarist, and along the way, I forgot to check in with myself that I’ve been playing for over a decade now. It felt deeply validating to have the support from such a legacy. I’ve always played Gibson guitars, and since working together, I’ve only found more to love.”
What’s next on the horizon for you?
“I spent the last two years giving myself space to reconnect and write the record that I’ve always wanted to write. I’ve been doing this for a long time, and released an album during the pandemic. I found myself a bit disconnected from the purpose and my voice. I needed that space to write this record, and I’ve never been so proud of a project in my life. It’s sincere and authentic, which is something I’ve run from in the past. I’ve released two songs from the project and can’t wait to share the rest. I hope to tour for the rest of time. It’s my favorite thing in the world.”
Check out the full Gibson Artist Spotlight roster and visit Charli Adams’ profile page.
