We were lucky to catch up with Georgia Barge recently and have shared our conversation below.
Georgia, we’re so excited for our community to get to know you and learn from your journey and the wisdom you’ve acquired over time. Let’s kick things off with a discussion on self-confidence and self-esteem. How did you develop yours?
My confidence and self-esteem have certainly grown over time, especially after every instance I’ve stood in front of an audience. I used to be the most shy kid, barely able to get through my Student Council speech in front of the fifteen students of my fourth grade class. When I became involved in the performing arts, however, something changed. I firmly believe that one of the most life changing things my mother ever did for me was put me on stage. Something about being able to make other people laugh, cry, sing, dance, and feel the emotions that I related to myself gave me a sense of purpose and importance. On top of this, I have the privilege of having a family that has supported me through and through, never doubting my capabilities and constantly encouraging me to continue doing what brings me joy. I can positively say that the confidence I have in myself now is built upon the strong foundation of faith that my family built for me a long time ago. As my confidence has developed, I’ve been able to accomplish things that I never would have thought to be possible, such as representing the Blue Star Awards at the 2022 Jimmy Awards in New York City and holding the title of Miss Kansas City, finishing as fourth runner up in the 2023 Miss Missouri Pageant. Through my experience playing at the Corbin Theatre and Mercury Chophouse in Arlington, I have developed skills of honing my craft. This year I am in the University of North Texas Jazz Singers and I am the featured vocalist of the Four O’Clock Lab Band as well as the Commercial Music Lab Band.
Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?
I am a musician, songwriter, and current student at the University of North Texas. What I find most exciting about my musicianship is being able to perform my original music for live audiences. I have been writing songs for ten years and I’ve always found it to be the most intimate, exposed way for an artist to share their own life experiences. Not only do I enjoy the thrill of writing down my thoughts and emotions and weaving them into the lyrics of a catchy melody, but I find the most joy in getting to hear how the audience interprets my work. I have found it so extremely special when someone approaches me with memories, people, or emotions that my songs have made them remember. Sharing your music can be terrifying, no doubt. Unleashing your own secrets is not an easy feat but putting yourself on the table, open to criticism and judgment, is what allows others to relate and feel understood as they, too, share those secrets. It is for this reason that I especially love live performance. There is something so endearing about seeing your music touch hearts right in front of your eyes.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
Three qualities that have impacted me the most have been determination, honesty, and compassion. Determination has allowed me to continue pushing through the deepest potholes that every artist, teenager, and person in general has experienced. Self doubt, ego, and insecurity can easily knock you off of your path, and they have certainly done so to me before. Determination is what brought me back to my purpose, keeping my goals in mind and not letting the voice in my head change the way I work towards each finish line. My advice would be to be your own biggest cheerleader. Not to say you should ignore all of the things that need work, but progress cannot be made unless we believe that we have the capability to improve. Take the first step by telling yourself that it is possible.
Secondly, honesty has been one of the biggest factors into who I have become as a human and especially a performing artist. Since starting my career, I have been told that those who move others are those who aren’t afraid to show their true colors. Similarly, somebody cannot delve into the deeper meanings of the role they play or the song they perform if they aren’t open and honest with themselves first. If I had known the true benefits of this honesty years ago, I’m sure I would have dealt with certain feelings and emotions differently. Reach out to those around you who care about you because they want to see you succeed.
Lastly, compassion has shown to be the most important quality that anybody can possess in the performance industry and life in general. Allowing yourself to look past your own biases and pre existing opinions, and understand the perspective of the person sitting across from you is a quality that can go so far. Not only will it positively impact you, but making another person feel heard and respected is one of the most influential things that you can do for the world around you. Spread love in every sense, not just while on stage.
How can folks who want to work with you connect?
I am always looking for people to collaborate with. Personally, I think collaboration is one of the most beautiful parts of musical performance and creation. As a singer, songwriting, guitarist, and pianist, I am always looking for other musicians who share my passion and are eager to throw their own perspectives and ideas into the pot. I find myself constantly inspired by other artists who either think like me, or are on totally different paths. Both of these types of people are who I am always looking to collaborate with. I would love to work with other songwriters, producers, and recording artists, as I currently have three original songs released on all streaming platforms. If your interested in working together, contact me at [email protected] and visit my website georgiabarge.com
Contact Info:
- Website: georgiabarge.com
- Instagram: georgia.barge
- Facebook: Georgia Barge
- Youtube: Georgia Barge
- Other: Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music, Pandora, Youtube Music: Georgia Barge
Image Credits
Macy McClish, Nicco Salazar, Cathy Shelton, JC Productions
