Erin Gibney isn’t your typical Nashville transplant waiting for a big break; she’s an artist who arrived with a plan and a platform. Since moving from Connecticut to attend Belmont University, Gibney has spent seven years navigating the nuances of Music City. Blending modern country with a sharp pop edge, she’s built a massive social media following that many artists spend a lifetime chasing. In this episode of Curious Goldfish, Gibney talks with Jason English about the transition from "timid" 18-year-old to a songwriter who is finally ready to march to her own beat.

Gibney’s songwriting is a direct reflection of her life, often focusing on the messy boundaries of relationships. Her recent single, "Kryptonite," was born from the awkward fallout of kissing a guy best friend—a move she jokingly admits she "would not recommend". Whether discussing the five-year relationship that inspired "Exit Signs" or the psychological "wiring" of the friend zone, she leans into vulnerability. "I think if you initially put someone in the friend zone... to rewire your brain... is very [hard]," she notes.

While many struggle with the "hustle" of digital metrics, Gibney views social media as a "seamless process" because she simply loves to connect. By sharing what she calls the "human woman experience"—from dating red flags to college hygiene—she has closed the gap between influencer and musician. "My songs talk about the exact same thing," she explains, "they rehash those same exact experiences that I’m already talking about online".

After years of playing the Nashville game, Gibney has embraced a new sense of autonomy. Having recently completed her first headlining tour and frequently gracing the stage at the Bluebird Cafe, she is focused on sustainability over viral hits. "I like who I am. I like my beliefs and my stance on things... it doesn't scare me anymore," she reflects. By choosing to release singles rather than a full album, she ensures every song gets "some breath".