Guitar Girl Magazine’s Diversity Editor, Gabriella “Guitar Gabby” Logan, sat down with some of her industry sisters to celebrate the cultural influence of Black history in music. This series highlights the amazing womxn that continue carrying the torch while using their platforms and music to spread positivity in a changing world.
What’s your name and pronouns, where are you from, and what instrument do you play?
My name is Tiye Ada Cochran. Respectfully, I am She, Her, They. I play guitar!
How long have you been playing, and when did you know you wanted to be a musician?
I officially started playing guitar in the double ’00s. I grew up watching MTV when the “M” really meant music. I‘ve always been attracted to the glitz and glamor of being a Rockstar, and I have been pursuing my passion for music ever since.
Anthony “Truth” Gary
What is the best part about being a musician?
The best part about being a musician is the creativity. The ability to create your own world no matter what is life-changing and inspirational in and of itself.
What do you think of when you hear “Black History Month”?
I honestly despise the month of February for the fact that it’s the shortest month. I would rather have BHM in October.
Is there a specific Black creative that inspires you? Why?
I am inspired by the condition of Black and Native people all around the globe and the universe. We always make nothing into something, and I think it should be an inspiration to the world.
Why do you think it is important to pay homage to the Black creatives that came before us? Why do you think the world needs to learn about our Black History?
I believe it is important to recognize those who came before us for numerous reasons. As we move forward into the unknown, the past teaches us what lessons to take with us and how to build upon the foundation left for us by our predecessors. We are standing on the shoulders of the giants that blazed the trails we walk on. I think the world needs to learn how to empathize with the plight of Black people in order to truly accept and respect the conditions that created the culture.
What is your current studio and (when we get back to live shows) live performance set up? Is it any different? (Feel free to address one or both of your rig setups).
I have a project studio in the crib (my house) that I’ve worked in for many years. The pandemic hasn’t impacted me much socially. I use my Protools and Vox set-ups to achieve my desired sound.
What does it mean to be a Black womxn to you?
To be a Black womxn means to do it big. Never compromise my integrity and always imagine. Imagination is the key to success.
What’s one piece of advice you would give to your eight-year-old self looking up to the adult version of you?
Wow. The biggest piece of advice I would give eight-year-old me is to 1) cherish, adore, and listen to your elders; and 2) love yourself enough to ignore any outside noise that may come to trip you up.
Follow Tiye on IG @tiyecochran
