Alyssa is a 15 years old singer/songwriter based in Ellicott City, Maryland in the US. A lot her happened since she started her youtube under the name "alyssashouse524" on December 30, 2008.
The most notable being getting discovered and signed by Jason Derulo on youtube and getting signed to his new label - Future history.
Check out what we talked about, hope you liked it.
Hi Alyssa, Welcome to YHP, How are you doing today?
Great, thank you.
We have a lot to talk about today but before we move on, quickly give me some background information about yourself?
I'm 15 years old and come from a large family. I've always enjoyed singing and was also sporty as a kid. I'm rather outgoing and always like to have fun.
Nice, so lets go back a bit and start from where it all began, when and how did you get involved in music?
When I was 8 years old, in 3rd grade, they started school talent shows. I decided to sing and after that I became known as the singer in my school and town. I did a few competitions but when I heard about Youtube thats where it really all began.
Why did you decide to start uploading videos and doing covers on youtube?
I use to go on youtube and look up singers. I had a lot of favorite singers on youtube and it really made me want to do it to. I wanted to do it because I loved singing for people, so on youtube I could sing for as many people I could get. It wasn't really a way to get found, it was just a way to showcase what I love doing.
Social media has made promoting and engaging with supporters/fans so easy, how influential would you say tools such as facebook, twitter and youtube have been on your musical career?
Social media has been amazing. I can say that without, I wouldn't be signed with Jason, I would have zero fans, and I wouldn't be doing this interview. Being able to update people with the click of a button is amazing. Posting videos is what draws people and I can't deny it, us teens love the computer.
What inspires you to write new music?
Real life situations inspire me to write music, but a lot of times that isn't enough. I have certain songs I listen to that really inspire me. These songs have this certain vibe that just makes you want to write, it makes me want to make a song like it.
What was the feeling making a guest appearance with Jason at his show in your home town?
That was incredible. I've always loved Jason Derulo and was a really big fan of his before I even got in contact with him. Being on stage with him was an honor because he's amazing. I had a lot of family come down too because it was where I live, so they could see what I've been doing and see that it really is all real.
Who are your major influences in the music industry?
Michael Jackson is a really big influence. I want to be able to have a song about helping the world or children because his message is really important to carry on. But, I also love the stories of Taylor swift and Beyonce. When I watched how they did it, it really got me inspired.
What was it like doing the video of your debut single ‘Overnight Celebrity with jason derulo?
That was such a great experience. I really didn't know what to expect, but all the people that worked on it were amazing people.
How has the responses been so far?
They've been great. I've had good feedback, and nothing too negative.
Getting to it, you recently signed to DeRulo's new label "Future History", how did this happen, what is the full scope on that?
Yes, I signed with him towards the end of the summer. I'm really excited about it and great things are to come with this.
What convinced you to sign to his label?
Jason Derulo is an amazing person and everyone with him makes you feel right at home and in place.
What did your parents say about it? what was their response?
They were really excited and proud.
Living in the spotlight can be difficult especially at a young age. Do you find if challenging to let loose and enjoy your childhood?
Well, I feel like I've been waiting and ready for this. I had good middle school years with friends and my first highschool year but I started getting so into my music that this is what I needed.
Theret’s quite a juggling act, being in school and also focusing on your music, what do your friends say at school, i bet you've made more friends now at school, any awarkedness because now everyone is seeing as you as a celebrity.
I'm doing homesschool now and it's still difficult to focus on.
What’s the hardest part of being a musician these days?
For me, I want to make sure to make my supporters happy. I want to keep it going and keep giving them more.
What type of music do you mostly listen to, and if you opened your iPod right now -- what are the last 10 songs played?
I listen to a lot of different music. When I put my ipod on its speakers, I'd put on NeYo, Beyonce, and Trey Songz. Then, I play Taylor Swift, Daughtry, and Lady Antebellum. I always listen to Michael Jackson, Janet Jackson, and The Jackson 5 too. I have a wide variety.
Explain your life and yourself in three words?
Music, patience, Ready.
What tips can you give to teenagers your age looking to get signed or get noticed by independent/major labels?
Keep putting yourself out there as much as you can. People are always looking so getting yourself out there on youtube is always helpful.
Why should we be expecting from you next?
I'm working on some new songs soon and hopefully an album next year.
Thanks for your time, words to your supporters/fans?
Thank you. I just want to say thank you so much to everyone that is supporting me. It means the world and is really incredible that people stick by me and continue to be apart of this journey.
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Check her first single- "OVERNIGHT CELEBRITY" (Official Video)