Over the past year, the name G-Eazy has become a well known name is the Salt Lake area. The Oakland born rapper, who went to college in New Orleans, seems to make it a point to stop in Salt Lake City every tour. He was here on March 11, 2014 for his ‘These Things Happen’ tour, and on September 11, 2014 when he opened for Drake and Lil Wayne. Well collegiettes™, G is coming back! He will be rocking the stage at The Complex on November 22nd for his ‘Bay to the Universe’ tour.
G-Eazy, whose real name is Gerald Gillum, graduated from Loyola University in New Orleans, LA three years ago with a BS in Music Industry Studies. He is most known for his rendition of the 1960’s hit “Runaround Sue”. He is now known for other popular songs like: “Marilyn”, “I Mean It”, “Far Alone”, and “Tumblr Girls”. In honor of G making another very exciting return to Salt Lake City, Her Campus Utah got the chance to talk with G-Eazy about his music, life, and tour. Check out what G had to say!
(Editor’s Note: You won’t want to miss the end of the interview when we get personal!)
Her Campus (HC): How did you get the name G-Eazy?
G-Eazy (G): Well it was about 10 years ago. My real name is Gerald, so it started because of the initials GE. I wish I had a better story for it.
HC: When did you realize that music was what you wanted to do?
G: I was 14 years old when I started rapping and I was terrible. I fell in love with it though and when that happens with me I become super passionate and go all the way with it.
HC: What was it like growing up in Oakland?
G: It was unique. You know, the Bay Area is like an island —isolated in a way. There was E-40, Mac Dre, and The Pack that really made me get into rapping.
HC: Did going to school in New Orleans have any impact on your music?
G: Moving from the Bay Area to Nola was a culture shock, but I soaked up all the culture. So, it definitely has an impact.
HC: Who has been your biggest supporter?
G: My best friend Marty. He’s always with me on tour. He works the merch table. He’s my right hand.
HC: If you could work with any artist, who would it be?
G: Kanye and Drake. I’d love to be in the studio with them and see what their process is like and the vibe.
HC: What was going through your mind when ‘These Things Happen’ topped the charts at #3 in the U.S.?
G: Thankful. I was so thankful that people were out there buying it. You know, social media is one thing, but it was just validation that people are listening. People out there are listening and following and supporting what I do. I was thankful.
HC: “Tumblr Girls” is one of our favorite songs on your album. Is there anyone who inspired that song?
G: (laughs) Ugh, no. No there’s not.
HC: What song off of ‘These Things Happen’ was your favorite to make?
G: Probably “Downtown Love” and “Just Believe”. With “Just Believe”, we trashed it so many times. It was fun seeing how the song evolved from the original to the final.
HC: You performed on “Late Night With Seth Myers”. We want to know everything. What was it like?
G: You know it’s all muscle memory. I wasn’t nervous until about a second before I performed it hit me, but it all went away as soon as the music started. It’s all muscle memory, so I just did what I know.
HC: So, how is tour going so far?
G: Amazing. It’s the best one yet. Every tour it just keeps getting bigger and bigger.
HC: Any crazy stories to tell yet?
G: This girl told me it was her 18th show. She’s been to the 3 shows so far this tour. It’s that validation.
HC: What cities are your favorite to perform in?
G: Salt Lake City, anything west of Denver is great. It’s like long lost family, you know. Of course New York City and Boston are fun too.
HC: You’ve mentioned at past concerts that you love SLC. What is it about here that stands out to you and makes you love it?
G: For some reason, it’s always one of the biggest shows on tour. The fans here are great. And the after parties. They’re always crazy here! (Editor’s Note: He parties on his tour bus after shows.)
HC: It’s time to get personal. Describe yourself in 3 words.
G: Passionate. Driven. Whiskey.
HC: What are 3 things you can’t live without?
G: Music, whiskey, and coffee.
HC: Favorite food?
G: Mac and cheese.
HC: Favorite TV show?
G: I don’t really watch TV, but I’d say Fresh Prince of Bel Air.
HC: Who are your celebrity crushes?
G: Rihanna, Jhene Aiko, and Rosario Dawson.
HC: What’s your biggest turn on in a girl?
G: Girls who drink whiskey.
HC: Biggest turn off?
G: Obnoxious. Girls who are crazy and loud.
HC: What would be your ideal date?
G: Back of the tour bus. I’m just kidding. A nice dinner, you know with a white table cloth.
HC: What is a girl trend you hate/ don’t understand?
G: How it takes them forever to get dressed!
Be sure to get tickets to G-Eazy’s show here in Salt Lake City on November 22nd at The Complex! You won’t want to miss it!