Blog: Hi!

Hey everyone! Looove the comments about “Already Gone” and appreciate the candor. I actually agree about the high chorus’s. In fact, my sister Michele used to say that about “Who Loves Ya Baby?”. She used to say “why do you have to sing so hiiiigh?”. It’s a weird thing because songs like to live in certain keys. They just sound best in certain keys. Then, I aim to meet the challenge. Yes – my voice thins out a bit on top and the newer tunes I just completed for the next album are indeed a bit lower – or, if they are high, the vocal is meatier. There are personal changes happening within me left and right and, lemme tell ya – I think I just did one of my raw-est vocals. I sang with total abandon and I’m so proud. Can’t wait for you to hear…… So, I’m learning and growing and appreciate the comments because when lots of people concur usually there is something to it!

I also was thinking about the next “pop” album being under the “pop” brand name of “Debbie”. I think it confuses overseas fans to say “Deborah” and may confuse everyone if I go back to “Debbie” but, my position on that would be “Deborah” serves me for artsier records and theater and this gal wants hits and the hitmaker is “Debbie”. I was even thinking about writing a toungue in cheek song about it, like “What’s in a Name?” Or, “Deborah, Debbie, Whatever!!!!”. Sometimes people say “Debbie…..oh, I mean Deborah” and I reply “yeah, both of us are here!” Ha! Lemme know your thoughts on the name!

And, keep the comments comin’…… Can’t wait ’til y’all see the video! Oh, and – one last thing……. There is a certain country music themed TV show (no one mention it by name! Keep it on the down low!) that mayyyy have expressed interest. Thoughts on that too? Since so many of you mentioned the country sound….. Ok – that’s all for now! Hope everyone’s having a great week so far!

And, to Cambell –

Yes! “Win lose or draw” was awesome! And, Grease still lives in my heart and will 4ever. Even funnier was “Run the Risk” where I was dressed in some sort of wolf costume crossing a pond of green slime! That’s what I love about my fellow theater peeps – we don’t take ourselves too seriously : )

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There are 77 comments on Blog: Hi!

  • Taken from Author Brian Gibson’s Myspace Page:

    3/12/2009
    At lot of people are messaging me, asking if I am related to pop star Deborah Gibson. The answer is no, I am not. I have, however been an avid Deborah Gibson fan for 10 whole years now. Does the pen-name, ‘Gibson’ I use have something to do with that? Of course. I am writing this to you because Deborah, or as a lot of you know her, Debbie’s last studio pop album was ‘MYOB’ and that was released in 2001. But now, Deb has released a long-awaited single, ‘Already Gone’. Yes, Deb, it was WORTH the wait!!! I know, I know, you’re thinking Debbie Gibson from, “Shake Your Love”, or “Only in My Dreams”, but think outside the box for a second, and remember that this woman was grown up- a lot from the bubble-gum pop songs. Do some research. Youtube is the best way. Look for the videos for “Nobody’s You”, or “Where I Wanna Be”, or “Didn’t Have the Heart”. My personal favorite is, “Naturally”. After hearing these songs, yes! This is the same kid that brought you the clever “Electric Youth” song and dance moves (which I know every step to..). Did I mention she writes her own music AND plays the piano? I had the pleasure of first meeting Deborah in 2004 at the stage door at, “Company”, and she was EXTREMELY nice and gladly listened to me babble on and on about how GREAT and talented she is. So here, ladies and gay gents… as you’re reading this you are listening to Debbie/Deborah’s new single, “Already Gone”. Whatever name you call her, she is without a doubt, one of pop music’s biggest talents, and I would love to see this song hit the charts!

  • I like your idea Betsy, could be cool. Some more title ideas could be, hmmm …
    “Debbie Reinvented”, “Debbie’s Legacy”, “Debbie’s Mutation”, “Debbie’s Transformation” … Better come up with something more artsy lol !!!

  • Okay this is going to be interesting….I have totally mixed feelings about the Deborah Vs Debbie name change.

    I’ve been a fan since I was 12 years old, and I am now going on 34. For more than half of that time I have known you as Deborah and have always and will call you Deborah. You have fought too long to earn the respect you have by being Deborah Gibson. If you go back to Debbie for the sake of having a hit record, then plain and simple……That is not the Deborah Gibson I have grown up with and respected my entire life…..There are a few things in this world I despise, one is ignorance, and the other is phony/fake people. Don’t make me not like the person I’ve respected my who life…..I’m already having a hard enough time with that.

    I’m sure a lot of your “so called fans” who have done nothing but bash everything you have done personally and professionally under the name Deborah Gibson would be totally ecstatic about you going back to Debbie Gibson. Nothing you have done as Deborah Gibson has ever been good enough for them. These people have never respected you, and they never will. Your a grown woman and going back to Debbie just wouldn’t suit you. It’s not who you are…..That’s the persona the record company created to sell records back in the 80’s.

    Media wise I’m sure they would have a field day with you going back to Debbie. I can see it now……The artist formally known as “Debbie”, oh yeah don’t call me Debbie it’s Deborah, wait I think she changed her mind again….So now it’s Debbie and not Deborah Gibson. The girl must have a few screws loose…..she cant make up her mind on who she wants to be.

    As much as I can’t stand half the crap that is played on the radio today, I would rather you not sell out to be heard on it again. Having big hits isn’t what life is all about. Yeah it would be REALLY nice for you to have a huge come back on the radio, but at what price are you willing to pay? Respect/Integrity Vs. A top 40 hit? The choice is ultimately yours, but I say stick with Deborah(she’s the person you know best). Either way I would support your decision. Your music is what has made me , and has kept me a fan for all these years…..Not your name!

    How bout a Deborah “Debbie” Gibson album? It would make everyone happy.

    As for the T.V. show, I think you would totally kick ass on it…I’m pretty sure I know which one you are talking about since I’ve watched the past 3 seasons of it. Its the only country themed show I know who would be interested in a former 80’s teen idol……of course if that’s the show you are talking about ;0) Are you really ready to get down on the farm?

  • I vote to stay Deborah – Debbie will confuse people and all you will get asked is “Why the name change”?

    But at the end of the day, if getting a gal hits means naming yourself Debbie / Deborah / DeeDee then a gal’s gotta do what a gal’s gotta do.

    Love Already Gone (I say it again!!) cant wait for the LP.

    Michael

  • ^ agree

    Especially that most people think of “Debbie Gibson” as the ’80’s pop princess. Like everybody, she have grown and have evolved, though always have been, a true multi-talented entertainer.

    Plus, “Debbie” the decision of Atlantic Records since Deb always have preferred ‘Deborah’, which is just a long form of the name.

    Even with a song that pokes fun of herself, the media would (unfortunately) look at it as a gimmicky attempt of a comeback.

    {As much as I can’t stand half the crap that is played on the radio today, I would rather you not sell out to be heard on it again. Having big hits isn’t what life is all about.}

    Also agree. Not into Top 40 and I’m only into a few artists since I’m not fond of certain pop singers.

  • DO you plan to take a world tour?

    I think the name is not the problem – you need to change the look of the show – you need to update the coloring and the outfit that you perform at – this is just like Broadway show – just talk a look at the stars today – they are all in the “show” thing – look at Britney (not that I can compare you have a lot of talent – but a sweatshirt mite not do the trick this time)

    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DpiD4zVJE7A

    You just need to play the “act” – become a super star that you are, so when the new album comes out – you need to create is so that the show will be magnificent and unique

    Best of wishes – for you – and I want you to come and visit us in your tour

  • I’ve thought about the name thing a little more since yesterday.

    My opinion is: Debbie for name recognition purposes. I think there are a lot of artists who have their ‘stage name’ as one thing but prefer to be called something else in real life. Since you already have a strong top 40 history as ‘Debbie’ and people remember ‘Debbie Gibson,’ I agree with releasing the album under that name. For example (a loose example) but if Jay Z decided to release albums as Shawn Corey Carter, very few people who recognize him as the same artist who did the ‘Black Album’ or “Izzo.” (Some would, but not everyone—and in spite of his very distinct voice and style). There are people who will buy an album purely because it says ‘Jay Z’ and changing the name would lose those sales. In reality, the name change neither takes nor adds to his product and I’m sure his close friends and family still call him Shawn, but the world knows him as Jay Z. Granted, changing from Deborah to Debbie is not anywhere near as drastic but the Top 40 world remembers Debbie Gibson.

    Even steering your music away from your 80’s persona (which is a good move ultimately since that sort of iconic ‘resurrection’ tends to be short lived anyway), I think a more mature ‘Debbie Gibson’ will spark the curiosity of your contemporaries who remember ‘Only in My Dreams’ from high school or whatever. The name would do it before they ever heard a chord. If you’re talking strictly about producing ‘art,’ blind faith isn’t such a great thing; whereas if you’re talking about increasing exposure and/or profit, it could be half the equation.

    Either way, I’m more than happy with whatever you choose. 🙂

    Incidentally, I know you’ve never been the ‘in it for the money’ type but the money has also helped you reach AND help a lot of other people. And, like it or not, there’s a business end to any art genre that shouldn’t be ignored. I guess it depends on what your goal is. As far as people ragging on you about it, I think those types do plenty to discredit themselves anyway. Let them talk—they’re going to anyway. You, Deborah, already know full well who you are.

  • Tiene Razón Spotlight…Debbie es tu marca registrada..y por lo menos aquí en Chile, te recuerdan como tal..sigues rotando en las radios con tus grandes éxitos como Foolish Beat, Lost in your eyes, No more rhymes….y siempre como Debbie. Completamente de acuerdo: Debbie es tu nombre pop!..Sobre Already Gone, me encanta! este nuevo sonido, estos nuevos matices, muestran tu versatilidad y potencia. Sonidos frescos para volver donde siempre debes estar: on the top! Tus notas altas me ponen los pelos de punta….como en el final de This so called miracle.

    Debbie: eres simplemente la mejor!

  • I could absolutely care less about the whole name thing. To me, it is a non-issue. I say flip a coin and be done with it! 😉

  • We’ve always supported and respected you Deb with your decisions but your known name will always be Debbie Gibson in Popular Music. There’s something about the name-Debbie Gibson, it’s catchy and easy-sounding. Even though it was a decision of your music label before, to be honest, they were right with the name. And sticking to (or returning to) Debbie Gibson doesn’t mean you haven’t grown up. It’s just a name- but that it seems to be the right pop name. Again one simple explanation to return to ‘Debbie’ will do and that is your fans in music, loyal or the ‘ordinary fan’ would rather call you as Debbie. You are not selling out or “she-has-completely-lost-her-mind” when you return to ‘Debbie’. It’s just a natural recourse to what was been. Certainly the Debbie Gibson name at the time of your huge popularity was the enormous kind. It had a major, major following to fans around the world. I know you prefer the name Deborah, and to us loyal fans and to your family, we can always call you by Deborah..

  • Hey Deborah

    What a truly wonderful song you have there with “Already Gone”. Love the hearty guitar and your vocals (if only I could get up to the high notes when singing in the car with you!) – it has never ceased to amaze me how listening to you always spurns emotion in me be it tears or happiness or joy or a good laugh depending on the song.

    Regarding the name – it’s an interesting question depending on how you look at it. Seems many fans here are all about “Deborah” but marketing or branding wise “Debbie” is still known today…..there’s one thing we all agree on, we love you regardless!

    For all those Aussie fans (or any country), look me up on Facebook.

    Can’t wait to see the video and the hear the new album Deborah – and one of these days I’ll get to see you in person on stage. I’m still flying the “Electric Youth” flag from Down Under and always will 🙂

    Love Jason

    jasonwsydney@Hotmail.com

  • Your photos in the HIAPSC are gorgeous and they are a Debbie Gibson Star photos.

  • Was just thinking…Didn’t Prince go through name changes…the symbol, the artist formerly known as Prince, and then back to Prince?

    Regardless, like many of people have commented, we love you regardless of what you call yourself on your new album.

    However, I still prefer Debbie Gibson…and I have noticed that on youtube.com, you have named yourself “officialdebbiegibson” 😀

  • Hey there,
    Couldnt stop myself from commenting. I love the high notes in “Already Gone”. I think it makes the song what it is. Showing the emotion of the song. Plus it is just one song of a huge collection from you from youth to adult and we have seen all types of songs from ballads, to dance to show tunes.
    As for the song, I think it is great. Like someone said, pure pop perfection. I love that it is something that we can all sing along.
    Thanks so much for that free song. Can not wait for the new music.
    For the name change, maybe you can go the Mariah Carey route and have The Resurrection of Debbie. 🙂
    Take care,
    Micheal

  • Hi, Deborah
    I think that if you want to go back using Debbie that is fine. But I think, though, that getting hits is not about the name but about the PROMOTION and PUBLICITY of the cd and singles.

  • Greetings,
    Just sending a quick note to say Already Gone is already on my “Deb Favorites” playlist on my iPod. I love the harder edge the guitars and the higher parts of the vocals lend to the vibe of the song. Well played, Ms. G!

    As for the Debbie/Deborah thing, well…I have grown used to Deborah since that is what you have said you want to be known as. The two names thing has become kind of an issue on places like iTunes where you have separate listings as Deborah and Debbie for your records – er – I mean “albums!” – another 80’s flashback…oops.

    But hey, business is business, right? I say, do what you need to do to get your music in front of the most people you can…and just keep making music. That’s the top priority to me, as Already Gone has re-enforced for the umpteenth time.

  • hey deb…is it mean this album will be released worldwide??? if it is….SCORE!!coz the last album that released in my country was think with your heart… n the rest of your album i have to buy it from internet…
    well good luck with your new album…
    n oh i just saw the poll below..n please..please..please do a duet with Kelly Clarkson 🙂

  • I think from a marketing perspective “Debbie” would be better. Simply because, as you said, the hit brand was “Debbie Gibson”. People still refer to you as Debbie and would make it easier for you to launch a single/album worldwide. “Deborah” can be used for your acting, for example. It separates two of the aspects of your career. Also, think of Debbie Harry. Professionally she now uses Deborah – and has done since 1989 – but who calls her that? What’s in a name? Debbie/Deb/Deborah, whatever?!

  • I’m so glad she has finally addressed the Debbie vs. Deborah issue like this with her fans. It shows that she really values our opinions. I can sense that she has really been grappling with this issue, even though the simple issue of a name seems ridiculous. She has mentioned that in the past, she had come close to signing with a major label but it didn’t fall through. I wonder if her insistance to use Deborah had anything to do with it. However, I’m behind her %100 to use her own name and keep her integrity.

    Moving forward, I do see the advantages of both Debbie and Deborah. Keeping Deborah, she would remain true to herself and her public image for the last 10 years. In addition to being a pop singer, she is now known as Deborah Gibson, the Broadway actress. Going back to Debbie may appear to her theater audience as selling out to please the masses. Plus, she has said over and over in the last 10 years how she dislikes Debbie. So, it would be like eating her own words.

    As for Debbie Gibson, that is the iconic name for which she is best known for. However, Debbie Gibson has everything to do with the 80’s and nostalgia, and sadly, nothing to to with the present….until now. There would have to be some major event or marketing to make Debbie Gibson relevant in the world today. The big surge of 80’s revival is certainly a good start. Look at the success of New Kids, who would’ve ever thought they have a top selling record and sold out tour? Plus, other artists like Deborah Harry and Elton John have paid respect to their old names in a tasteful and successful way (Debbie Harry, The Reg Strikes Back). Not everyone can pull it off. It’s a risk but Deborah may have a good chance. It also depends what kind of music she puts out. For example, Already Gone is a Deborah Gibson song, while Only Words remix is clearly a Debbie Gibson dance anthem. Personally, I do like the name Debbie Gibson, it just rolls off my tongue easier!

    Deb, at the end, go with your gut feeling but I’m glad you are considering your options. Just like the second coming of Christ or Bin Laden’s capture, we’ve been waiting for your next big hit forever and believe it will happen! Deborah or Debbie…Nobody’s You.

  • Love the new tune. You have done something that I haven’t seen you do since Between The Lines. During the chorus the music is louder than your voice. I thought that was pretty cool. Also LOVE the guitar rock and roll bit in it.

    As for Debbie/Deborah I have to agree that DJ’s still refer to you as Debbie. Like it or not they will not use or play a Deborah song no matter how amazing the song is. Heck, even the internet uses Debbie. I like the idea of Deborah (Debbie) Gibson. I don’t think you would be “selling out” at all. Whatever your choice is it’s your music that matters in the end. Not your name.

  • Hi Deborah,
    I prefer to call you Deborah, you are a extremely talented woman.
    Bless you with lots of success in your next cd.
    Stay happy always.
    🙂

  • Hi Wann, I’m from Malaysia too. I went to Deb concert @ PWTC in 1991. She came again for BMS album promo in 1993 at Subang Parade and TWYH album promo in 1995 at Lot 10 the then Salem Power Station. Manage to get an autograph of Deb and took pic with her. Ah….. that was the best time of my life and I’ll cherish this forever.

  • Steve, I trully agree with you on this. Years ago when Never Said Goodbye was played in Malaysia radio station our DJ’s were quick enough to introduce as a duet of Jordan Knight with Debbie Gibson. Our DJ’s here love Debbie and I’ve been hearing Lost In Your Eyes, Out of the Blue, Shake Your Love & etcs all over again. It’s like a hint on telling people that Debbie is on a comeback.
    Die hard fans will know who Deborah is. Debbie is a household name.

  • Wow, Steve thanks on Deb’s you tube name. Your eyes are sharp. I didn’t realize that until you mention.

  • Hi Deb, after reading your post and comments from fans I’ll respect your decision on which name you want to use on your comeback. I tweeted some of your You Tube clips posted by fans & I’ve automatically typed as Deborah through it was Debbie.

    One of my friend tweeted me back and ask me is this Debra Gibson? I told her yes. I remember watching an interview that you wanted to use Debra but the recording label yanked out your idea. I can hear how frustrated you were when you recalled this isuue in that interview.

  • Anyway, Already Gone is awesome. You can hit any high noted with conviction.

    Another question, any plans of colaborating with any country artiste like Carrie Underwood to do a duet or write a song for her. Both of you have the best vocals may it be in studio recording or singing live.

  • hai..deb..only in my dream ,i want see u and kiss u..
    untill 21 years i follow your news..thank