I Finally got to do the interview with the wonderful Savannah outen, its so hard to believe what posting a cover of a song or posting a video to youtube can do for you or for your career if you were thinking about a career as a music artist.
Lets not even get into the countless numbers of artist that have either got signed or found management deals through youtube.
Savannah is also someone that has fully leveraged the power of youtube, or you could say social media in general with over 60,00 followers on twitter, 10,000 people on her facebook fanpage and now the youtube channel which she has over 60 million youtube video views, yes 60 millions and over 200,000 subscribers.
Check out what we talked about, hope you like it.
Hi Savannah, Its great to have you here, how are you doing today?
Hi, I'm great how are you?
Just a bit chilly, but im great you know thanks.
So Can you quickly give me some background information about yourself?
Yea, I just turned 18 a couple weeks ago, I've been singing since I was a little girl, and I love performing :)
When and how did you get involved in music?
I've been surrounded by music ever since I was young. I grew up listening to Hanson, Britney Spears, Celine Dion, Aretha Franklin.. tons of different artists. I always wanted to be a performer and sing on stage so I told my parents when I was about 10 that I wanted to start making it happen. And they have been my biggest supporters ever since.
Did you have members of your family that were actively involved in music whilst growing up?
I don't come from a musical family. My mom does play violin but other than that, my family is not musical. My Dad and I always joke that I got my voice from him haha.
You are your musical and personal inspiration?
I love Celine Dion. Not only is she an amazing singer and performer, but she seems like such a sweet lady. The Beatles are another big inspiration. It's so inspiring to listen to their music. It has such an impact on peoples lives.
Why did you decide to start uploading videos on youtube? werent you shy or scared of negative comments towards your music?
It was actually my parents idea. Nothing was happening at the time, so my parents discovered youtube and wanted me to post a video of me singing "Listen" by Beyonce. At first, I didn't want to do it. I was nervous to see what people would think. I remember the next day, I looked at the video and it had tons of views and I was just so happy.
How do you deal with negative comments as we know that youtube or the internet really give anyone the ability to state their opinion publicly on one's work?
I honestly try not to let those comments get to me. Once in a while, I will get upset from a rude comment, but you just have to brush it off. You can't let them effect you.
How difficult was it for your to transfer your career, as an amateur singer on YouTube, into a professional singer, you know its very easy to be coined as a "YouTube artist."
It hasn't been too difficult. I don't mind being known as the "Youtube Artist" just because that's where I started and that's where most everyone knows me from. It's funny because when people recognize me they come up to me and call me Savannah7448.
Do you feel that getting signed to a major label helps with the transition, like the justin bieber transition?
I think that now a days you don't need to be signed to be successful. Although, having a major label behind you is always a good thing because they can get you major radio airplay, access to big tours, etc. Being an unsigned artist, Youtube has been an awesome way for kids to hear my music. I think it would be awesome to be signed to a major label, though.
Are they any deals or interest from major labels to sign you, i know you worked with Esmee Denters a while before she got signed, do you still keep up to date with her, any chance you guys will be working together in the future?
I've met with a few labels. I'm crossing my fingers something works out. I've actually never worked with Esmee. I have talked to her a few times on Youtube though and she's a very sweet girl. I'd love to work with her in the future.
You also design your own clothes, is this something you are looking to branch in and focus on in the future?
I wish I designed my own clothes! ;) hahaha. I've always loved drawing designs. When I was in school, I'd always draw random outfits because I was bored. I still have those saved so it would be a dream for those to come to life someday.
What has the most memorable moment so far for you as an artist?
I've had so many memorable moments so far. I think the number one moment for me was reaching 50 million views on Youtube. That was such an amazing moment. I had worked so hard to get to that point and it was really cool to know that 50 million people have watched my videos. Also going on tour with Nat & Alex was an amazing time. It was my first tour, and it really gave me the chance to connect with my fans.
What do you do to unwind?
I'm very boring so I love to just sit at home and watch movies with friends. I'm always writing songs in my room, too. But I don't mind being busy all of the time. It's a good feeling.
What other artist do you like to watch on youtube?
There are so many talented people on youtube! My good friends, Boyce Avenue are amazing. Such talented and sweet guys. But I love to laugh so "MirandaSings08" is hilarious. My friends and I are obsessed with her. And recently I was introduced to "Jake And Amir". I can't start my day without watching one of their videos. And my friend, Lucas makes those "Fred" videos that are just too funny :)
What advice would you give to young girls about following in your footsteps?
It's a really tough business. When I first started out, I thought it was going to be easy. But I've learned A LOT about this crazy industry. My advice to young girls who want to be in the business is to Never Give Up.
Make sure it is something you are VERY passionate about. There are going to be so many people telling you that you won't make it, or that you aren't good enough. But you have to believe in yourself and know what your capable of doing.
What Are Your Future Plans?
My future plans…. I really want to release an acoustic EP soon. Just something to give to the fans. I really want to share some new songs I've been working on.
I'm also going to be releasing two new Christmas songs soon which I'm stoked about! I LOVE the holidays :)
I am going to be a correspondent for the American Music Awards Coca-Cola Pre Show LIVE on November 21st. That will be so much fun. I've always wanted to attend an award show.
Most of all, just keep working hard and try to make stuff happen ;)
Thanks for your time savannah.
Thank you so much!
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