If Bruno Mars and Michael Jackson were to have a love child in some strange and possible way, it would NOT be Justin Bieber or Jaden Smith, but instead take the form of 15-year-old Josh Levi!
Josh, a recent top finalist on the The X Factor USA has gained international stardom due to the show, and with millions of fans worldwide (@JoshLeviWorld & #LeviNation), we just had to speak to him about what the future holds. Josh took a minute and sat down with us in Hollywood, where he now calls home, to chat about his blossoming music career, inspirations, time on the X Factor, wicked dance moves, and his advice to others.
How did you first become interested in becoming a musician? You are only 15 now, so how old were you when you first started?
I first started singing, in church, around 4 years old. I always tell people, I could never sit down like a normal calm child and watch the choir, according to my mom, you could always find me in the aisles or close to the choir, stealing the show.
Who are your biggest influences in music?
I am most inspired by Justin Timberlake, Bruno Mars, Brandy, JoJo, and Michael Jackson of course because he is so iconic.
Which other artist have you enjoyed working with the most so far?
I haven’t had an opportunity to work with any major artist yet but I look forward to collaborating soon!
Which artist would you love to collaborate with?
If I did anything with any of my inspirations it would be huge!
How was your experience being on the most recent season of The X Factor?
It was pretty awesome, I learned so much and I got to do what I love, which is performing every week with the production I always envisioned having.
Is Simon really that “bad” in real life?
If Simon likes you, he is super nice. Luckily for me, Simon really liked me so he was very nice.
What do you think you learned most being on a show like The X Factor?
Everything happens for a reason. Sometimes, you might not understand why certain things happen and the way that they did, but either way it was a reason for it and a lesson learned in the end.
How do you define pop music these days, and where do you feel you fit into that definition?
I define pop music as mainstream art that brings everyone together. Pop culture in general, is so diverse and has so many different aspects. I think I fit in best, in the “Josh Levi” space, where no one is in pop music today.
What are you currently working on now? Any upcoming singles? Albums?
Yes, I am always working on new music I am currently working on a buzz single for my fans to come out on Valentine’s Day.
Where do you see yourself in five years?
In five years, I see myself with a Best New Artist Grammy, a sold out MSG stadium, an international tour, and an Academy Award.
What is the best advice you have ever been given?
No matter what happens in my life or career, never lose my smile and spirit, because that is what will always make me who I am.
What advice do you have for other young artists looking at getting into the music industry?
Just go for it! No one can tell you whether or not your capable of anything, you hold the keys to your own destiny. The people that doubt you in the beginning, will do nothing but watch you succeed in the end.
If you could change one thing in the world, what would it be?
I would change the amount of kids that live in poverty or without a home. My mom and grandmother have owned a daycare for almost 10 years now, and I’ve grown up helping kids almost my whole life. Nothing makes me more upset than seeing kids without the life they deserve.
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