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Gilles grew up in Cornwall, Ontario where, as a young man, he began to make his mark on the Canadian country music scene as a talented singer and songwriter. In 1979, while visiting Nashville, he recorded some of his songs, releasing them on his own label, Bookshop Records. Thus began Gilles’ successful career as an artist, songwriter, producer, publisher and entrepreneurial music career builder.
Gilles’ efforts have earned him two BMI and four Socan awards (including an International Songwriter Achievement Award), four Juno nominations, a Felix Award as an RCA French recording artist, and designation as Canadian Country Music Association Record Industry Person of the Year. Moving to Nashville permanently in 1996, Gilles has produced hit records for Tommy Hunter, Eddie Eastman, Colleen Peterson, Kelita Haverland and Due South’s Paul Gross and has had his songs recorded by Terri Clark, Ty Herndon, Tracy Byrd, Anne Murray, Ricky Skaggs, Dan Seals, Lee Greenwood and Lisa Brokop, among many others. His list of credits also includes Crystal Gayle, Chet Atkins, Eddy Arnold, Janie Frickie, Susan Jacks and Ronnie Prophet. In 1999, he signed a publishing deal with Mike Curb Music Inc.
Always generous with his talents to assist worthwhile causes, Gilles cut a new track on a Roy Orbison vocal for an album created in 1988 to promote the Special Olympics, helping to raise hundreds of thousands of dollars for that organization.
Gilles continues to see his efforts rewarded and, as a professional, takes both his successes and disappointments with good humour and savoire faire. As he says, "This business is a wonderful journey - why not enjoy the entire trip!" Gilles’ personal life is blessed by his wife, Susie, and their two daughters, Chloe and Jazz.
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