We spoke with Duane “D.O” Gibson about “Songs of Freedom” and more!

Hi! Could you share what inspired you to create the “Songs of Freedom” EP, and how do you feel this project differs from your previous works?

A: I was inspired by the lyrics from Bob Marley’s “Redemption Song” which is a song that really kicked off this project. Bob says “these songs of freedom are all I ever have” and I thought about how conscious Hip-Hop songs have really shaped me as a person and as a rapper so I thought it was a perfect fit.

Every year I usually do a song or two that incorporates themes about Black history, and this year I realized I already had several completed so I thought it would be a perfect time to release it as a project.

Your EP delves into the Cape Breton connection that inspired Bob Marley’s “Redemption Song”. Can you elaborate on this connection and how it influenced your rendition of the track?

A: I chose to do a remake of the song because the line “Emancipate yourself from mental slavery” traces back to a line from a speech that civil rights leader Marcus Garvey said in Sydney, Nova Scotia. My Dad is from Sydney, and the church beside where Garvey said this line was co-founded by my Great Grandfather so I thought it was a cool connection.

Working with a talented artist like Ammoye must have been an enriching experience. How did this collaboration come about, and what was the creative process like for the track “Redemption Song”?

A: I’ve known Ammoye for several years and it’s cool to have built a friendship with her.

When I had the idea for the song I thought she was a perfect choice. Obviously it can be intimidating covering Bob Marley, but I knew she was up for the task.

We recorded the song with my musical partner Beatchild and it was fun having three of us in the studio catching the vibe.

Oftentimes musicians email tracks – and while that is efficient, there is nothing like being in the studio together.

The song “Black Music 365” pays homage to Black musicians. What message do you hope to convey with this song, and why was it important for you to include it in this EP?

A: I’ve been shaped by Black Music since I was a kid. So that’s why my opening lyric I say “My father played the records for me as a kid, now I do the same thing he did.”

Music can be cyclical. I like how I get to teach my kids history through music and then in a larger sense, I get a chance to teach kids across the country by introducing them to music.

I write my songs as songs first of all – to be enjoyed as music, but I also like how a teacher or parent can sit with their child and be able to educate them on Black music through the lyrics.

Bob Marley’s music has been a source of inspiration for many. How has his music specifically influenced your career and your approach to music?

A: One thing I love about Bob Marley is that his music appeals to everyone. There aren’t too many artists you can say that about. It doesn’t matter how young or old you are, your race, man, woman etc… Everyone loves Bob Marley!

And he sung about such powerful topics… like “One Love” about unity and of course “Redemption Song” which talks about escaping from slavery. I just love his overall catalogue and it inspired me to have more of a message in my music.

As you embark on the 2024 Black Canadian School Tour, what are the key messages or experiences you wish to impart to the students?

A: Each year I find myself going back to schools that I’ve visited before and I don’t want to repeat the same stories, not just because it would be the same show but because there is more to the stories that I think kids should learn about.

For instance, many young Canadians know that Viola Desmond sat at a movie theatre to stand up against segregation, but they may not know that she was an entrepreneur and sold her own beauty products while also creating a school to help more black beauticians. I think that’s a powerful and important part of her story that needs to be heard.

Creating an EP and organizing a tour and conference are no small feats. What have been some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced in these projects, and what have been the most rewarding moments?

A: Canadian winters! It’s so unpredictable. The first two weeks of the year I was in British Columbia and hit with a big snow storm. I had to drive around mountains and the roads weren’t ploughed. There was a snow storm that led to me having to postpone a few performances. It’s ironic because now that I’m in Toronto this warm weather resembles Spring.

I love snow, but it can be a challenge when I have to reschedule performances – but it also gives me an opportunity to get back to recording or filming content for social media.

Looking beyond the “Songs of Freedom” EP and the 2024 tour and conference, do you have any future projects in the pipeline that you can share with us?

A: I’ve been working on a lot of music the last several months. It didn’t feel right to put it on the upcoming EP because of the theme, so I’m going to be coming out with more music and content in the Spring and Summer. I can’t wait!