It is difficult to resist the charm of Gabrielle Destroismaisons, whose authenticity illuminates everything around her. An entire generation grew up with his songs, which continue to resonate nearly 25 years later. Thriving in the countryside, at the edge of her lake with her partner, his children and her cats, she is preparing to go on tour with the show Christmas, a tradition in song. Next year, she will also celebrate 25 years of career and her album And so on with a series of shows.
• Also read: In tears, Gabrielle Destroismaisons explains why her songs are not on any platform
• Also read: At 40, Gabrielle Destroismaisons will return to the stage this summer
When we hear you in an interview on the radio or television, we very quickly feel that love fills the space. Are you aware of it?
It’s true that I often feel that there is love awakening around me. I can’t really explain it. Maybe people perceive my authenticity. I am a simple girl, living in the countryside, attached to essential values. I appreciate the little things, I have never sought controversy, nor desired fame at all costs.
In 2000, you launched your album, And so onwhich sold over 100,000 copies. Despite the success and your young age, you were already asserting yourself. You were already very authentic, refusing certain proposals. What guided you in these choices?
I was often asked to pose for sexier magazine covers and I always knew it wasn’t for me. Having three sisters and two younger brothers, I wanted to set an example for them. This made my decision easy, as I was not comfortable with this kind of image. I wanted to preserve part of my private life. Being in this business doesn’t mean I have to reveal everything… give everything.
Where do you think your integrity comes from?
When I was young, I spent my time building cabins in the forest. I had a duck that roamed freely in the yard with the chickens, as well as cats and dogs. I find it fun to talk about this period of my life, because I haven’t talked about it much… about this aspect of me attached to nature and simplicity in everyday life. I think it says things about my personality.
At the start of your career, you left your village of Saint-Lin-Laurentides to immerse yourself in the hustle and bustle of the city. What has this changed for you?
When my career took off, I had just moved to Montreal with my boyfriend at the time, and it became very intense. This experience profoundly influenced my vision for the future. I am aware of the pitfalls of an unsustainable pace. I often say this to Janik, my manager: “I want to do this job for a long time, so I prefer to progress at my own pace!” Otherwise, I risk getting burned, making bad choices and walking away from the profession.
You agreed to participate in the show Christmas, a tradition in song, directed by Joël Legendre, alongside artists like Barniev, Joe Bocan, Marie Michèle Desrosiers, Luce Dufault and Lunou Zucchini. How does this project suit you?
I answered a big yes! This is the first time I’ve shared the stage with these artists. What we are going to experience will be intense, with 23 shows in one month across all of Quebec. We are a small family who will travel together, support each other and take care of our voices. It looks like me! It is truly an honor to be part of this great adventure. The result is magnificent!
Does Christmas have a special meaning for you?
Absolutely! I have precious memories of Christmas, including times when gifts completely filled the basement wall. If we had so many gifts, it’s because they were often second-hand. My family was not rich. What I experienced was not a tragedy, but when I was younger, I had a very difficult time dealing with it. Over time, I see more of the efforts my parents made. I talk about it today, at 41, and I know that there are young people who experience what I experienced. This is why I am spokesperson for the Saint-Vincent de Paul Society of Montreal. A cause that touches me!
Your parents made sure that your Christmases took place in a certain abundance despite everything…
Yes! There was a table covered with a tablecloth that held a barrel of fried chicken, fries and coleslaw. It was our traditional meal on December 24th. Every year, we watched a new Walt Disney film around 1:30 a.m., after the presents were unwrapped. We all huddled together with big blankets. We were rich by our strong ties and our beautiful values.
Today, you have chosen to live in the countryside with your lover. What do you like about this lifestyle?
I deeply appreciate the tranquility of a small village. Returning to the Laurentians grounds me and calms me. I have a lake right in front of my house, and last weekend I was able to observe three deer behind my house. There is also a pretty stream. I am so happy when I go for my short 30 minute walk. I love watching squirrels, ducks, geese…
You also share your life with a lover…
What I can tell you is that I have a very good relationship with him. I am also a mother-in-law. I have two stepchildren whom I adore, and our little animals too. We love our cats so much!
Gabrielle, it’s impossible to listen to your big hits online because you don’t own the rights. You talked about it on the radio show This is my tour. It made you very emotional. Are you thinking of covering your songs on a new album like Taylor Swift did so that we can hear your repertoire?
Do I want to do this? I don’t know. Currently, my agent is having great discussions about making my old albums available online. I emphasize “nice discussions”, because I feel no resentment. I was very emotional on the radio. I often get asked why my songs aren’t online, and after a while I don’t know what to answer. My biggest wish is that everyone who loved my songs 25 years ago can listen to them.
Are you going to celebrate your 25th career anniversary?
I’m really happy to be able to announce it to you! To highlight my career and the release of my first album, And so on25 years ago next year, we are currently planning solo shows. I’m going back on stage next summer to revisit my repertoire in larger and smaller venues. I look forward to connecting with my audience. For me, the biggest celebration is seeing the amazed eyes of the spectators in the room!
