Faces of Long Island celebrates the uniqueness of everyday Long Islanders. In their own words, they tell us about their life experiences, challenges and triumphs. Newsday launched this social media journey into the human experience to shine a light on the diverse people of this wonderful place we call home.

‘I found myself right back where I started, at home, and I’ve never been happier to be back here on Long Island.’

Gabrielle Ross, Bellmore

“I was always in love with music. When I was 6 years old, I started singing lessons. By 13, I was exploring my passion for songwriting. However, my path took an unexpected turn when I was diagnosed with polycystic ovary syndrome, an imbalance in my female hormones that caused cysts and other complications. Faced with this challenge, I realized that prioritizing my health was crucial for healing. As a teen, I developed a deep-seated passion for health and fitness, dedicating myself to workouts and a nourishing lifestyle.

“Throughout my musical journey, I’ve encountered various twists and turns. Initially, I pursued a career as a solo artist for an extended period before becoming a member of the band, Whatever We Are. Though the band has since disbanded, our music lives on. Presently, my primary focus lies on my new project as a solo artist. Additionally, I am directing my attention towards licensing and writing for commercials, among other ventures. The imminent completion of my new project brings me immense excitement.

I intend to infuse these invaluable experiences into my music, hoping to inspire and bring joy to listeners.

“Blending elements of pop, dance and acoustic music, I term my creation ‘music to move you.’ It possesses the power to stir emotions deep within, evoking tears, or ignite your desire to dance. Over the past few years, my personal journey has seen me traverse dark and challenging periods. However, these moments of pain have served as catalysts for growth and transformation, teaching me profound lessons along the way.

“I intend to infuse these invaluable experiences into my music, hoping to inspire and bring joy to listeners. I wrote a song called ‘Enough,’ and it was just before I moved out to California a couple of years back, and I talk about how I’m never turning back, and I found myself right back where I started, at home, and I’ve never been happier to be back here on Long Island. I think that’s when you’re truly happy on the inside; it radiates out. So I hope to just share that with people, whether it’s through music or cooking or whatever it is. Just shine light into the world. I think that’s what we’re all at the end of the day here to do.”

Interviewed by Starr Fuentes

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Faces of Long Island is produced by Newsday Consumer Marketing. This content does not involve the reporting and editing staff of Newsday’s Editorial Department.