Tattoo Talk: Tattooer Extraordinaire Gobe on Being an Artist & Musician

When you consider Gobe, it’s clear that he is an artist in every sense of the word. Based in South Florida, Gobe (pronounced go-bee) is a young man finding his way with a passion for both music and tattooing. His interest in tattoos stems back to his time in high school when he first learned tattooing. At the same time, his interest in music was rising, and he started to learn the guitar. Having two artistic interests kept him busy and focused, and has driven him forward to where he finds himself today.

At the age of 25, he is still establishing himself musically, with several single releases now to his name. He released his latest single “under my skin,” a couple of months ago and will be following it up with “Sun Leaves Scars” on May 23rd. His songs emphasize his natural talents for storytelling. They are raw and relatable, regardless of age, gender, background, etc.

At the core of Gobe’s artistic mission is a desire for his fans to feel seen and heard through music. He just wants people to feel better when they listen to his music and feel included. He just wants to put a smile on your face, even if it’s just for a few seconds. Music can touch us in a variety of ways, and Gobe hopes to be one of the positive aspects of your day.

With his interest in tattoos, there was no better guest for Tattoo Talk than Gobe. We discuss how he got started with tattoos, new tattoos on the way, challenges inherent in being a tattoo artist, and more.

What was the first tattoo you ever got/gave?

Gobe: “The first tattoo I ever gave was in my senior year of high school. My buddy called me and said they had ordered a gun from Amazon, given I was probably the best artist in our grade. So I drove to his place and tattooed four other kids in his garage, and then tattooed myself on my leg last. The first tattoo I gave was a 100 emoji symbol. I watched a YouTube video and then did those tattoos with no gloves seven years ago.”

How did you dive further into tattooing?

“After that day, I actually enjoyed it and ordered my own. Started watching every YouTube video about learning how to tattoo from there. Eventually, I built up enough knowledge and gave enough free tattoos to get a job at my first tattoo shop.”

What’s the most painful piece you’ve ever received?

“The most painful tattoo, I would say, is either my hand tattoo or the one I’m working on now. Currently getting my stomach done with a big cathedral church I designed.”

Gobe tattoo left arm, photo courtesy of Gobe

Gobe tattoo right arm, photo courtesy of Gobe

What’s the most outrageous/batshit thing you’ve ever had or asked to have tattooed?

“One time, I had a guy come into the shop, a walk-in. He wanted his ex-girlfriend’s name covered, which was fairly big on the side of his neck. Then proceeded to ask to get his new girlfriend’s name underneath, just as big. My question was, did he not learn the first time?”

What would you never tattoo?

“I would never tattoo anyone’s private parts. It’s gross, I’m ok; I would have to be paid at least 20,000 dollars to do that.”

Do you have any new tattoos planned or underway?

“Always planning and wanting new ones. Right now I’m working on my stomach. Andressa in my shop, where I work, did the linework for me. After I have been shading it myself, getting a few hours in every session. Trying to finish, but the stomach is definitely one of the worst places.”

Where do you feel the biggest tech advances are coming from in tattooing? Say, compared to ten or even 20 years ago.

“I would say some of the biggest advancements in tattooing have been the machines, aftercare, numbing cream, and needles. The ‘Fine Line’ style would have never been around ten years ago. The machines and hella fine three-round liner needles are the only thing that makes it possible. Aftercare-wise, with SecondSkin, they even have spray-on SecondSkin that you don’t even need to peel off anymore. I think it makes the healing process so much more enjoyable than having to just lotion and raw dog it after you used to take saran wrap off.”

What is your absolute favourite part of getting fresh ink?

“My favourite part about it is having new art to show off. Think of it like how girls put on makeup, or get plastic surgery, tattoos are like the same thing for me. I think I feel more confident every time I fill up more sections of skin.”

What’s the single hardest thing about being a tattoo artist?

“The single hardest thing about being a tattoo artist is dealing with people. You come across all kinds of people, and even people on drugs or drunk, wanting to get a tattoo. Getting a design this person wants, and even knowing how to help the person sit still during the tattoo. People are definitely the hardest part about the job, even if you’re good with people, it still gets frustrating.”

Gun, Ink, etc.: What’s your gear of choice?

“First off, it’s a machine! I definitely recommend FK Irons to anyone who wants to go from an average to a better artist. There’s just no match. Needles, I only use Black Claw needles. My go-to inks are Dynamic Ink gray wash set, and currently using the triple black Dynamic. Would also recommend Ink Eeze (the green one). All these products definitely help me end up with the best possible tattoo.”

Gobe ‘Sun Leaves Scars’ album artwork