Spotlight – D.O. Gibson

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Spotlight - D.O. Gibson: Inspiring Through Music and Motivation

In this edition of Spotlight – D.O. Gibson, we delve into the world of one of Canada’s most inspiring hip-hop artists and motivational speakers. Known for his record-setting rap freestyle and his ability to blend storytelling with impactful messages, D.O. Gibson is a true trailblazer in the music industry. Beyond the beats, he’s a passionate advocate for youth empowerment, using his platform to encourage resilience, diversity, and self-expression. In this exclusive interview, D.O. shares his journey, the lessons he’s learned along the way, and how he continues to innovate in music and beyond. Join us as we explore the dynamic artistry and unshakable spirit of Spotlight – D.O. Gibson.

How has this year been treating you?

Ah this year has been amazing! I’ve had the opportunity to travel and perform in South Africa, Europe and South America. I always feel like travel influences my music and outlook on life because you realize how global your music can be even as an independent artist.

Last time we chatted you were working on your school tour. How did all that turn out?

The school tour was amazing! But it feels like it never stops, just takes a pause over the summer. I’m excited to be back in schools as I’m heading out to a tour in BC and then will be performing in Ontario for Anti-Bullying week.

What’s one lesson from your community work that unexpectedly influenced your music?

I’m always surprised by how many youth can relate to my message. It doesn’t matter where you are from in the country – you could be from a small rural community in BC or an inner city school in Toronto, and yet the message resonates with youth. I think the main reason is because everyone can relate to feeling different when they are growing up and I think that encouraging kids to have an outlet – whether music, art or sports – is something that all youth can apply to their lives.

You have been involved with the community for a long time working with schools and children. How do you transition into writing for children and telling stories they will vibe with?

I actually found the process easy because of how long that I’ve been doing it. The story in the book is essentially the same story that I have been telling to youth for over twenty years. It was fun to make the album to go along with it since I was able to expand on the concepts and themes in the book.

How did your new project The Story of How Young Duane Gibson Stayed Driven come together?

I’ve had a lot of kindergarten teachers and librarians encourage me to think about making a children’s book. I’m a big advocate for literacy so I wanted a resource where young children would be encouraged to read more and also for parents to be able to read them the book when going to bed.

How was learning the author and book making process?

As a rapper, you’re always thinking of coming up with a witty punchline, but as a children’s author, you realize it’s about simplifying the message and not overthinking it. So that was a challenge at first, but as soon as I was able to get the first few pages, they just started flowing.

How do you think children will react to the new work?

I think they are going to like it! I think my experience of performing my songs for kids for so longs helps me understand a little more about what resonates with kids. I wanted to make the music catchy, and the lyrics simple enough for a young child to understand. I also wanted to tell fun stories, so songs like “Fred the Purple Unicorn” are fun light hearted tracks that I think will connect with you.

How do you see hip-hop evolving as a tool for social change over the next decade?

I think the young generation craves more substance in music. I grew up in an era of Snoop and Biggie and when you listen back to their music you realize that there wasn’t a lot of substance. It was great music. But not as much substance. But I think things are swaying towards people wanting to hear more of a message in music.

What is a lesser-known Canadian artist or moment in Black Canadian history that has deeply influenced you?

I think it would have to be the story of Josiah Henson. The museum is located roughly twenty minutes from my hometown and my Dad plays Josiah at the museum. It’s an important story because he took the underground railroad several times. I stress to youth how significant that is because he really only had to go once – to save himself. But he wanted to help more people so he went back again and again. I think that’s a great thing.

If you could collaborate on a motivational project with any artist, who would it be and why?

I would love to work with Raffi. He is one of the legends in children’s music so I think it would be cool to collaborate with him. Also Sharon and Bram, maybe do a rap remake of Skinnamarink!

How do you manage creative burnout while balancing multiple passions?

I think mental health is really important. I like to take time in the morning to meditate, journal, workout and read and when I do that, I find that I’m less likely to get burned out throughout the day.

Do you have any sage advice for the youth?

My advice is similar to the first song my album – Dream Big! But I don’t just say dream big, I encourage kids to work hard at their goals. I’m a big believer in transferrable skills. On that song, I talk about how I wanted to be a basketball player. That dream didn’t happen. But I used those same skills of hard work and discipline to become a rapper.

What are some of your new benchmarks or milestones in your career your looking at next?

I remember as a teenager hearing KRS ONE rap “Rocking the microphone til I’m 60!” I never thought that would actually be possible as when I was growing up, most rappers had careers that only lasted a couple of albums and a few years. I’m grateful that I’ve had a twenty plus year career and I’m excited to be rapping when I’m sixty!

Spotlight – D.O. Gibson has come to an end. Big thanks for our friend Duane for taking the time to chat again

Check out all the stuff D.O. has been working on here

Keep up with D.O. Gibson right here

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