Young Adult: Tell YA a little bit about yourself when you were younger…where did you grow up? 

Roxie Bardo: I’m originally from Chattanooga, a decent sized city in Tennessee. I had an exciting childhood, with an eclectic mother, and two older siblings. What I remember most is riding shotgun in a big blue van while singing to Harry Belafonte’s Banana Boat Song with my mom. I have a very open minded and supportive family that allowed me the freedom to grow and explore on my own artistically.

YA: How did you get your start in entertainment?

RB: I’ve always loved performing. At the age of 5 I was singing for my family and friends in my front yard with my two neighbors as back-up dancers.

Also, as I got older I was in all of my school’s musicals, and eventually transferred to a performing arts school.  I’ve always known I wanted to be an entertainer, but I didn’t really start making it happen until I convinced my family to move to California when I was 14 so that I could pursue my dream full time.

YA: What has been your biggest success to date?

RB: Well, I’m very proud of my EP available on iTunes and Amazon. I’ve worked very hard and I’m happy to have a collection of music out there to represent me.  I would say that being nominated as Female Vocalist of The Year for the 23rd Annual LA Music Awards takes the number 1 spot for my biggest achievement so far. To be acknowledged by other music industry professionals is such an honor. I’m so thankful and excited!

YA: Do you have a mentor? If so, tell us a little more about him/her.

RB: I wouldn’t say that I have a mentor but my sister is my biggest supporter. She helps me stay focused, motivated, and positive. All of which are key for success. Without her I don’t believe I’d be where I am now, and I couldn’t pursue this career without her assistance.

YA: Quick: Pick one adjective to describe yourself!

RB: Driven

YA: Who are some of your favorite artists or bands?

RB: I love classics like The Beatles, Sting, Michael Jackson, Bon Jovi. I’m also deeply inspired by upcoming artists like Macklemore, Iggy Azalea, and Lorde.

YA: Who would you most like to work with?

RB: I really don’t have a specific artist I want to work with because I’ve learned that appearances can be deceiving. Honestly, I will work with anyone who I believe has talent, passion for the project and a good work ethic. That’s what matters most.

YA: What do you have coming up?

RB: I have several performances and events coming up! I will be performing at a few teen concerts in LA and NYC as well as attending some charity events like the Hooray for Hollywoof 2 event by Dogs for the Deaf! You can find more details about these specific events on my website!

YA: What can you tell others pursuing the same career?

RB: Keep going. You’re going to hear people tell you NO a million times, but you only need a few “yes’s” to make your dreams reality. Don’t let anyone else dictate your success. You have to build the life you want!

YA: What are your favorite books or what books are you currently reading?

RB: Right now I’m reading Catcher in the Rye and The Alchemist. Some of my favorite books are by Dr. Seuss. I love the catchy little rhymes and the whimsical stories. I’ve always been intrigued by the fantasy worlds Dr. Seuss created and how easy it was to get lost in them.

YA: Where do you see yourself in 5 years? In 10 years?

RB: In 5 years I see myself on a world tour singing my latest music to fans who I can’t wait to connect with! I see myself joining all kinds of campaigns to help end world hunger and the global water crisis. I also see myself starting my own charities and launching my clothing line. In 10 years I see myself re-inventing my sound, and image, starring in films, and producing different forms of art.

YA: What are three things you want your fans to know about you that they might not?

RB:

1. I’m vegetarian and an animal activist.
2. I believe anything is possible.
3. I’ll sacrifice everything to live my passion.