“I’ve always been deeply creative… Music has always moved me, certain songs have brought me to tears, and I don’t think that’s something everyone experiences in the same way.” These words from Montreal-based producer Gabriela Sinclair-Desgagné, known artistically as Sinca, capture her artistic approach—one driven by a deeply felt emotional connection to sound. Her remix of Husa & Zeyada’s “Are We Alive” represents this, blending indie dance rhythms with nostalgic, melodic touches, all while staying true to the original track’s core essence.
Sinca’s creative journey started early, nurtured in a home filled with music and shaped by her Peruvian roots. Her mother, who passed away two years ago, played an influential role in developing her love for Latin music, which continued to inspire her throughout her career. Often in life, it’s not the straight road you take, but the detours that make you pause, only to realize in the end which way you truly want to go. For Sinca, that detour was a career in marketing before fully embracing her passion for music. It wasn’t until she attended DJ school in Montreal at 24 that she realized this was more than a hobby—it was a calling.
In our interview, we talk about the emotions behind her music, her experience transitioning into a full-time artist, and the personal challenges she has faced along the way.
header photo by Anne Marie Munoz
Hey dear Gabriela, I am just listening to your remix of Husa & Zeyada’s “Are We Alive.” I love the track! It has such incredible energy. You mentioned wanting to create a version that preserves its essence while adding an indie dance vibe with melodic and hopeful touches. For me, listening to the track brings up associations of diving into life with all its energy and facets—almost driven, but really making the most of your time. You said it felt like you could uncover new emotions hidden within the track. What new emotions did you find?
Thank you so much for the kind words! What really drew me in was the original’s blend of emotion and groove. It already had this sensual, mysterious vibe that I loved. When I started working on it, I wanted to maintain that sexy, intriguing energy while introducing my own melodic elements to bring in a sense of hope and nostalgia, but with a playful twist. I aimed to create something fresh while staying true to the track’s core essence.
Speaking of being driven, you said your summer 2024 was unreal: “20 shows, 7 countries… Got married to the love of my life, released my remix of Santiago for legends, went to Burning Man, etc… enjoyed my first summer as a full-time artist since taking the leap last December.” That sounds like a lot! Are you able to keep up with that pace yourself?
Yes, this summer was incredible, and I feel like the momentum has definitely carried into the fall as well. Honestly, this whole year has been amazing in so many ways. The lifestyle can be intense and demanding, but I chose this path because of my passion for music, travel, and connecting with people. Having a strong support system makes all the difference. I’m fortunate to have an amazing team and a partner who’s always cheering me on, which helps me keep up with the pace and stay grounded.
“The moment I knew it was more than just a hobby was when I played in front of a crowd for the first time.”
Last December, you made the brave decision to leave your full-time marketing job and fully dedicate yourself to your passion for music. You basically gave yourself a year to see what conclusions you would reach at the end of this circle. Clearly, your courage has paid off more than you expected. What are your conclusions after this year?
The year isn’t quite over yet, but I already have a clear sense of what I’ve taken away from it: I’m very happy that I made this decision. It’s been a transformative journey for me. I’ve not only refined my music production and DJ skills but also gained a deeper understanding of the industry and met so many passionate and inspiring people. But the most significant takeaway is what I’ve learned about myself. I feel more connected to who I am, and each day brings me closer to my ultimate goal in life: to be happy.
What were the biggest learning factors during this year? What were the most difficult things? And what turned out to be easier than you thought?
This year has been filled with lessons. The challenges in such a competitive industry are real: convincing gatekeepers, managing financial stress, making big decisions, and the sacrifices that come with it… Also, touring can be tough on both the mind and body, all while needing to stay creative. I’ve learned the importance of keeping an optimistic and a positive mindset. Also, staying open to new ideas while keeping my focus on my vision and goals has been crucial. But one of the most important lessons was learning to create a healthy balance by distancing myself from the ‘Sinca’ project at times, which helps me stay grounded. Above all, I’ve learned to trust the process and prioritize what genuinely makes me happy.
I love the post where you present your music to your parents, saying they were your fans from day one. Unfortunately, your mom passed away about two years ago. She shaped your love for music, and there were always playlists at home with Latin music because she was from Peru. Do you remember what specific Latin music often played at home?
Yes, talking about challenges, losing my mom has been by far the hardest thing I’ve ever faced (and continue to face). My sisters and I actually created a playlist for her during her final days, we knew how much music meant to her. We wanted to make sure she felt joy and comfort, so we filled it with the songs she loved the most, from traditional Peruvian music to salsa classics and even the reggaeton she enjoyed during her Zumba classes. I still have that playlist and often play it to feel connected to her and the beautiful musical heritage she passed down to me. Music has such a profound way of making her presence feel close. It’s truly powerful.
“Understanding the business side of the music industry is crucial, and being able to think like a businessperson is a valuable skill.”
You later created playlists on discs, then MP3 players, and played them on road trips or at high school parties. At 24, thanks to a friend, you went to DJ school in Montreal, and your initial goal was just to make remixes for friends and such, but it quickly turned into a real passion. Was there a specific moment you remember realizing this was meant to be more than just a hobby for you?
From the moment I started DJing, I felt a spark, a deep connection I hadn’t experienced in a long time. I became almost obsessed with my mixer, spent hours creating mixes, improved every day, and studied others DJ’s sets. But the moment I knew it was more than just a hobby was when I played in front of a crowd for the first time. There was something magical about that experience. The energy, the way the music connected with people. That’s when I realized this was what I was meant to do.
You mentioned in an interview that you were an artistic mind as a child and teenager. What does it mean for you to have an artistic mind? In the sense, how is an artist´s mind?
I’ve always been deeply creative and found joy in expressing that creativity in various ways. As a kid, I would paint, invent songs, and create choreographies. Tapping into that artistic side made me feel the most fulfilled. Music has always moved me, certain songs have brought me to tears, and I don’t think that’s something everyone experiences in the same way. I’ve also always felt drawn to performing. I’ve loved the adrenaline rush of being on stage and the incredible feeling of making people connect emotionally with what I do and create.
“Having a strong support system makes all the difference.”
Why did you choose marketing first, then?
I chose marketing because I believe it’s one of the most creative industries out there. I followed the “traditional” path, I was of course influenced by my friends and family who had done the same, and an artistic career just wasn’t really an option in my household.
But I don’t regret the experiences I gained in my corporate career. They’ve provided valuable insights that I apply to my Sinca project. Understanding the business side of the music industry is crucial, and being able to think like a businessperson is a valuable skill.
Do you still have anything to do with dance and ballet today?
Aside from dancing during a night out, no I unfortunately don’t dance anymore. But I’d love to get back into classes someday because dancing brings me so much joy. I think styles like flamenco or tango could be really fun to explore, I love the sensuality of those dances. But for now, I focus on lifting weights and practicing yoga, which I really like.
What are your professional and personal dreams for the coming years?
Continuing to tour, produce, and learn as much as I can. I hope to release more music than ever in 2025, especially after dedicating a year to producing as much as possible. So, stay tuned! (smiles)
The most important thing in life is…
LOVE (smiles)
Follow Sinca for more:
www.instagram.com/sinca_official
www.facebook.com/sincaofficial
