1.) First, would you mind introducing yourself?

Hello dear KB! First of all, let me say how honored I am to be a part of this interview. Thank you so much for this opportunity—it’s a true privilege. I’m Gigio Teixeira, a Brazilian country singer proudly based in Brasília, the capital of Brazil. And I’m also a big fan of yours! Your work as a photographer is not only inspiring but deeply moving—you capture the soul of music with such grace and talent. It’s a joy to be connected with you, especially in such a creative and meaningful way

2.) Would you mind sharing some of the culture around country music from the US in the country of Brazil?

Absolutely, I’d love to! Country music has a fascinating and beautiful presence in Brazil. We have our own traditional style called sertanejo, which shares many roots with American country music—especially in its storytelling, its connection to rural life, and its strong emotional core. The two genres are kindred spirits, both born from the heart of the people and their lived experiences.

Over the years, many iconic American country artists have gained great admiration here in Brazil—names like Johnny Cash, Alan Jackson, George Strait, Shania Twain, and more recently, Luke Combs and Chris Stapleton are loved by Brazilian fans. There’s a special respect for their authenticity and heartfelt lyrics.

One of the biggest cultural events that blends this love for country and sertanejo is the “Barretos Rodeo Festival”—it’s one of the largest in Latin America, drawing over a million people every year. It’s a massive celebration of music, cowboy culture, and rodeo competitions. Brazil even has world-class rodeo champions who’ve gone head-to-head with American cowboys, creating a friendly but fierce rivalry. So yes, country culture is alive and thriving in Brazil, with a unique flavor all its own.

3.) Do you enjoy being a solo artist or creating with others?

Even though I perform as a solo artist, I absolutely love creating with other people. Music, for me, is all about connection—and I wouldn’t be here without the incredible souls who walk this path with me.

My band is a blessing: Pedro, Gabriel, Caco, Henrique, and Hugo are more than musicians—they’re brothers. My vocal coach Keit, my speech therapist Dianete, and my artistic director Luciana Martuchelli have all poured their wisdom and heart into my journey.

I’m especially grateful to my family—my mom, dad, grandma, brother, uncles and cousins—for their endless support and love. And above all, I owe everything to God. He’s my compass, my strength, and the ultimate source of all inspiration. Without His grace, none of this would be possible.

4.) How was your first trip to Nashville?

It was absolutely amazing! Visiting Nashville had always been a dream of mine, but believe it or not, it wasn’t even in the original plans. Initially, I was supposed to go to Orlando to see a show by Alan Jackson—who I deeply admire—and enjoy some time at the theme parks. But then life threw me a bit of a curveball.

During a routine checkup, doctors found an early-stage kidney tumor. Thankfully, it was removed in time and the surgery was a complete success. However, my doctor gently (and quite humorously) advised me to stay away from roller coasters for a while—so I figured, well, maybe it’s time to change the plan! 

That’s when Nashville came into the picture—and what a blessing that decision turned out to be. On a more serious note, when you go through something like cancer, it really shifts your perspective. You realize that waiting for the “perfect moment” might mean missing out on something truly special. So I decided, why not live the dream now?

At the very last minute, I added Nashville to my itinerary. And not only did I visit the Music City—I put together an incredible team of American musicians and recorded a collection of country music covers in a real studio. The result? It’s just beautiful. It felt like a dream that came true years ahead of schedule—and I’m still smiling about it!

5.) Tell me about how you start out writing a song or select a song to cover, from the lyrics to working with other musicians to the sound, the story, the feel, the audience, the goals.

This is a very emotional question for me. My journey with music, especially country music, truly began through my younger brother, Maurício. He passed away in 2021, and he was not only a huge country music fan, but also a fantastic singer—honestly, way better than me. 

He used to dream about having a band and would always invite me to be a part of it. At the time, I was caught up in my studies and other professional projects. And while I always loved country music, I was more into romantic ballads—artists like Bryan Adams, Richard Marx, Rod Stewart, Scorpions, Lionel Richie… those were the voices that shaped my heart.

After Maurício passed, I was overwhelmed with grief and a deep sense of regret for not embracing his dream with him. I would listen to his playlists over and over, crying through every track, feeling both the weight of his absence and the power of the music he loved.

One day, I felt something shift. It was as if his dream had found a home in my heart. I began to sing the songs he loved, just for him—and little by little, it became something bigger. It became a tribute, a healing process, a new beginning. Every song I choose to sing or cover now comes from that place: a place of love, of memory, of honoring someone who believed in me before I believed in myself.

And in every note, I carry my brother’s voice with me. He’s still here, somehow. In every chord. In every lyric. In every stage I step on.

6.) What are some non-musical influences you find within your work?

 Well… I love dancing! And I have to say—KB, I’m still a little heartbroken that you didn’t dance with me in Nashville (laughs). I know, I know… I’m sorry! I didn’t mean to bring up a trauma—I promise I’ll make it up to you one day!

But seriously, I’ve always wanted to learn line dancing. I think there’s something magical about how movement and music come together. And I would love to find a way to incorporate that into my work someday.

And hey, I’m Latin—we were born to move, right? From salsa to zouk, tango to bachata… and of course, in Brazil, we have samba and forró, which is full of rhythm, connection, and joy. Dance is such a powerful form of expression, and I think it speaks the same emotional language as country music. One day I hope to bring that fusion to life on stage.

7.) Ford or Chevy?

Ford, no doubt! I had the time of my life driving a Mustang in the U.S.—what a car! That feeling of freedom on the open road… unforgettable. 

And I have to say—I was seriously impressed by KB’s pickup truck. Stylish, tough, and full of personality—just like her!

8.) How do you take your coffee?

Every single day, the same way. I’m a creature of habit when it comes to breakfast: a handful of nuts, some almonds, cashews, and a little natural yogurt with banana. That’s my go-to.

And I really enjoy eating without checking my phone. Those quiet morning moments are sacred to me—a little time to be present, breathe, and start the day with peace and gratitude.

9.) Tell me about what motivates you.

What motivates me is the desire to become a better person—every single day. For God, for myself, for my family, and for everyone around me. I believe we were put on this Earth not just to exist, but to evolve. To love more, give more, forgive more. That’s the fire that keeps my heart beating and my soul singing.

10.) Tell me about the things that are on your mind when you first wake up and the things that keep you from falling asleep at night.

 When I wake up, I try to treat it like a little miracle. It’s another chance to live, to love, to make music, to move my body, to read something beautiful, to practice karate, to go to the gym, to play with my dog Jiban, to call someone I love, or just smile at a stranger. I think about how I can fill the day with things that matter—things that make me feel alive.

And at night… well, sometimes my mind keeps spinning. Not out of worry, but out of wonder. I lie in bed thinking about new ideas for songs, memories that warm my heart, dreams I haven’t chased yet. Sometimes I think about the people I’ve loved and lost. And sometimes I just stare at the ceiling and smile, because even in the chaos, life is beautiful.

11.) Any friends or fellow artists you wanna shout out?

Absolutely. My brother Maurício.

I’ve mentioned him before, and I’ll never stop honoring him. He was not just my brother—he was my best friend, my musical compass, and a truly gifted soul. Every time I step on stage, I feel his presence. I imagine him watching from the heavens, smiling, singing along, cheering me on.

His dream became my mission. And everything I do now, I do with him in my heart.

12.) Do you see a lot of live music or concerts?

A few, here and there. These days, I find myself preferring more intimate shows, smaller venues where you can really feel the music up close. And if it’s a big stadium show—please give me a seat! (laughs) I think I might be getting a little too old to stand up for hours on end waiting for the encore. My knees agree.

13.) Tell me something significant, however “simple” it may be. 

KB is the best! I mean it. I admire her so much—her kindness, her energy, her artistry. Her work is truly fantastic, and everyone who’s had the chance to work with her should be incredibly proud.

By the way, that’s the real meaning of life, if you ask me: the people we share it with. The ones who come into our lives to make us better than we were before.

14.) Future goals or plans for your work? This could be 10 years out or 10 days out.

One dream? To go back to the U.S. again—maybe this time for a tour, or a special guest appearance in a concert. Who knows? The road is full of surprises, and I’m always ready to walk it with a guitar on my back and a smile on my face.

15.) Any future plans you’d like to share- liveshows, travel, releases, albums, covers? Where can folks follow your music, whether it be an email list or social media or website.

My biggest plan is to live every day doing my best. As Jesus once said, “Do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself.” That line, along with the teachings of Stoicism, has helped me deal with anxiety and stay grounded in the present.

Thank you so much for this opportunity. KB, I hope we meet again soon! And everyone’s invited to come visit me in Brazil—we’ll hit the beach and have an unforgettable time. Music, sun, laughter… life at its best!

You can find me on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube: @gigio.teixeira