Gena Perala can make you laugh and break your heart all in the same verse. Witty, heartfelt, and deeply human, her songs find beauty in everyday life, blending sharp storytelling with humour and raw emotional depth. Born in Vancouver, British Columbia, Gena spent much of her childhood travelling with her family on the carnival circuit. This unconventional upbringing shaped her singular artistic voice—one that is both deeply personal and universally resonant. She has performed for the United Nations and toured extensively across North America, from Vancouver to San Diego and New York to Ottawa, playing festivals, theatres, and intimate venues alike. She even made an appearance as herself in the feature film Love Happens, starring Jennifer Aniston and Aaron Eckhart. Beyond music, Gena is a published poet with three collections to her name. Her poem on civic engagement won Rock the Vote’s audio contest, earning her the top prize. She also shares her love of language by facilitating poetry workshops in high schools, inspiring the next generation of writers. Her debut album, Exactly Nowhere (2014), produced by Chris Gestrin, introduced her distinct voice to the world. In 2025, she is set to unveil more music. Gena continues to carve out her place as an artist who speaks to the heart with fearless honesty.
Name:
Gena Perala
Genre:
Indie Folk, Americana
Founded:
I wrote my first song around 2008.
# of Albums:
Two, plus a demo and an EP.
Latest album:
Somewhere New (coming October 2025)
Latest single:
“Goodbye Friend” – June 10
Latest video:
Favourite musician growing up:
That’s a tough one. I was pretty obsessed with The Best of Sam Cooke as a kid—and honestly, I still am. Most of the music I loved growing up came from my parents’ record collection. I also adored the Mini Pops, Janet Jackson, Whitney Houston… it was a whole mix.
Favourite musician now:
Impossible to choose just one, but here’s a handful that are usually on my playlist: Mac Miller, Frank Ocean, Zach Bryan, Chappell Roan, Theo Katzman, Lainey Wilson, Jason Isbell, Lana Del Rey..
Guilty pleasure song:
Too many to count—but let’s say anything by Justin Bieber
Live show ritual:
I get pretty decent stage fright, so deep, centring breaths are a must.
Favourite local musician:
So many! Aside from all the talented folks who played on my record, of course, I’ll go with Petunia and the Vipers.
EP or LP?
LP all the way—I love a full musical journey.
Early bird or night owl?
A little of both, honestly. I love mornings, so maybe I’m an early bird who stays up too late.
Road or studio?
Oof, tough one—but I’ll say studio (for now).
Any shows or albums coming up?
Yes! I just started rolling out my new album Somewhere New, which I recorded over the past two years with producer Erik Nielsen. The first three singles—I’m Gone, Goodbye Friend and Machete—are out now. That one’s got serious femme fatale, western apocalypse energy—I’m so excited about it. The full album arrives this October. It’s a mix of country textures like pedal steel and banjo, with moments of string quartet beauty. It’s also the story of a woman claiming her worth. I’ll be playing some shows soon, too—best way to hear about them is through my mailing list!
Where can we follow you?
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Rapid Fire Local Questions:
What is your favourite local restaurant?
This probably doesn’t sound very cool, but I’m kind of a health girlie, so the macro bowl from Kokomo and the kale salad from Sweet Cherubim are staples for me. That said… Duffin’s, obviously. And for cocktails, I love Tocador. Park Drive is my local watering hole—not that you asked, ha.
What is your favourite street in your city and why?
Commercial Drive, hands down. It’s my neighbourhood—it’s got great bookstores and coffee, green spaces and a lot of heart.
What is your favourite park in your city and why?
Grandview Park! It’s home to one of the best bike polo courts in the world—and yes, I play a very fringe sport called bike polo.
What is your favourite music venue in your city?
Probably The Heatley. The owner’s a friend and a musician himself, and the vibe there is honest and chill. No pretence—just a steady stream of live music and real community. I’ve had a tough time finding my place in Vancouver’s music scene, and The Heatley has always welcomed me. It’s a special place. Support your local artists and the venues that support them.
