From her debut on American Idol to her collaborations with Kelly Clarkson, Daisy Close has made her mark in the music industry with her distinctive voice. Emerging as a rising star, Daisy embodies the true spirit of an artist and she is currently in the works on her debut EP for her loyal fans. Amidst her busy schedule, Daisy also finds time to support St. Jude's, spreading joy to children as an inspiration and spearheading efforts to provide school supplies for underprivileged students. Daisy Close stands out as a fresh voice for the next wave of artists, and her journey promises more exciting ventures in the years to come. Explore further to discover more about Daisy!

Where are you based?
Hello, Jejune Magazine! Thank you so much for having me! It’s great to be here. I am currently based in Dallas, Texas.

What sparked your passion for singing?
I believe my passion for singing was never sparked, but rather, introduced to me fairly quickly in many ways at quite an early age in my life. I say this all the time, but it’s true. Ever since I could remember, my family always joked by mentioning how “I could sing before I could talk,” meaning that my passion and love for singing were always evident and have been with me throughout every milestone of my life. However, there were definitely huge inspirations that played a critical part in my childhood, ultimately molding me into the performing artist I am today, such as none other than the beloved children’s show of the 2000’s Hannah Montana.

My mom quickly noticed how passionate I was about the performing arts and enrolled me in singing lessons, acting lessons, and dance lessons. I joined so many community choirs and theaters aside from being involved in all of the performing arts opportunities that were available for me at school throughout the years. It was through her guidance and strategic thinking that I was able to quickly find my passion and love for singing, songwriting, and acting, and it created not only an outlet where I was able to express myself in the most authentic and truthful way possible, but an unbreakable and everlasting spark was formed in my heart where I knew that this is truly who I was and was meant to become. From a young age, I knew my purpose in this world and what I was created to do, and for that, I’m so thankful. Ever since, I’ve made it a testament to myself to never forget who I am and to never lose faith or let others distract me from what I know is true in my heart. Through blocking out the external noise, I have been able to follow my dreams to my heart’s fullest extent so that one day I can leave a legacy for myself that I am sure to be proud of.

Who are some of your biggest musical influences, and how have they shaped your style as a singer?
Oh, that’s a tough one! I’ve come to find that my musical influences are always changing, but I truly believe my biggest musical influences will always be none other than Queen Beyonce, the iconic Whitney Houston, JLo, Miley Cyrus, Christina Aguilara, and Kelly Clarkson, just to name a few. I’m definitely drawn to female powerhouse voices with a strong stage presence, that’s for sure! I listen to and love a lot of early 2000’s music, primarily pop, rock, R&B, and soul music. I feel that I have a very unique taste in music, as I’m also a big oldie! I love Elvis, Stevie Wonder, and obviously the most incredible Aretha Franklin. I believe all of these artists have shaped my style in so many ways as a singer. Especially over the years, I’ve discovered that admiring many different genres and decades of music has quite heavily influenced who I am, who I want to become, and also what I aspire to bring to the table as an artist in countless ways.

As a singer, how do you prepare for live performances? Do you have any rituals or routines you follow to get into the right mindset before taking the stage?
Tricky question! This varies a lot depending on the performance as there are so many aspects to think about and plan ahead as a performer before any sort of show. However, there are usually several key rituals that remain to prepare for a live performance, which include being well rested, staying in peak shape both physically and mentally, keeping hydrated, making sure my voice is properly and well warmed up, obviously practicing is essential, knowing my set for the performance both inside and out, and finally just taking the time to unwind by doing something relaxing or fun to de-stress and take my mind off of the unknown to avoid getting in my head or overthinking. If I know I have done everything I needed to do within my control to prepare for a performance, I give myself grace and trust that my hard work will pay off and be showcased on stage. And then comes the best part! It’s time to hit the stage and have fun doing what I love most!

It’s so cool that you participated as one of the contestants in the previous season of American Idol. Could you share your experience during your time on the show?
Thank you so much! It was definitely such a cool experience; I don’t take it for granted, that’s for sure. I think the most fascinating part of being a contestant on the show last season was meeting all of the other contestants. I find it so interesting when I am able to meet and work with other like-minded individuals who are just as passionate about the performing arts as I am. I’ve never felt so accepted, appreciated, and seen by those around me like I do when I’m able to share my passion with others who understand exactly how I feel. I’ve created so many amazing friendships over the course of filming last season, and for that, I am so grateful. I’m also just thankful for the opportunity to have shared my passion and love for singing and songwriting with Katy Perry, Lionel Ritchie, and Luke Bryan. I am honored they took the time to hear both my voice and the story I wanted to tell for myself as an artist, even if it wasn’t what they were looking for. I’m grateful for every opportunity because I know one day, when the right opportunity comes my way, there will be no stopping it. Like a present with my name written all over it, it will be destined for me and me only, with no strings attached. Like it was always meant to be.

What were some of the most valuable lessons you learned from your experience on American Idol, both personally and professionally?
I think some of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned from my experience on American Idol, both personally and professionally, are to ultimately not let others' opinions dictate your future and to be persistent and patient in pursuing your dreams. Dreams don’t come easily, especially dreams within the entertainment industry. I’ve learned that the hard way, unfortunately. From a young age, I always envisioned myself achieving all of the success in my desired career much earlier than it’s turning out to take. I know, a lot of pressure to put on such a small person’s shoulder, but I knew what I was doing because, deep down, I knew only through pressure that diamonds were created. But as I grow older and reality begins to set in a little more, I realize that I can’t create a timeline for my dreams. As badly as I want them and as hard as I work to achieve them, I can’t control when it’s my time to shine.

I always hated the unknown. I am very detail-oriented and like to plan everything out as perfectly as possible, so I’ve always struggled with letting go sometimes and just doing my best by being patient in the process. I’ve learned so much both personally and professionally over the past few years that has allowed me to grow as a person and as a performing artist, and only through looking back am I now able to see that truthfully, I wasn’t ready for the things I once insisted I was ready for. Seeing where I was and where I am now has allowed me to become more patient with each and every growing day, reminding me to remain persistent in pursuing my dreams and to always work my absolute hardest to continue getting closer and closer towards achieving all of my dreams. I’ve also learned that not everyone is going to be for you and agree with the dreams you have for yourself, but you can’t let others' opinions dictate your dreams because they can’t see the fire inside of you. They don’t know what your heart and soul know. Our dreams are so special because only we know what our hearts and souls have been telling us all this time. And nothing anyone can say or do can ever take that away from us. As challenging as pursuing this career has been, I am so grateful I did because I have grown so much in my faith like never before. It has challenged me to fully believe in myself and my dreams like nothing else could. It has taught me that if I have faith and believe that nothing is impossible, I can achieve anything I set my mind to.

You also had the chance to perform a duet with Kelly Clarkson. Can you describe the experience of singing alongside her? What thoughts were running through your head at that moment?
What a momentous moment that was. The best way I can describe the experience of singing alongside Kelly Clarkson is by referencing a lyric from one of her hit songs that states, “Some people wait a lifetime for a moment like this." It was definitely one of the most memorable moments I have experienced in my career thus far in the entertainment industry, to say the least. It was such a special experience for me, especially growing up idolizing Kelly Clarkson and being such a big fan of her music for so long. It was a one-in-a million opportunity, and I was so fortunate to be lucky enough to have been at the right place at the right time to have experienced it. It was one of those starstruck and surreal pinch-me moments. I remember looking directly at Kelly Clarkson in awe as we began singing together, and truthfully, I thought I was dreaming because it didn’t seem real at the moment. It wasn’t until after we finished singing together that reality finally set in and hit me, as I felt an immediate shock and burst of adrenaline rush through my veins. Honestly, in the moment while singing alongside Kelly, I just remember thinking, Please don’t mess this up. There was a lot of pressure in that moment, especially since we were singing one of her hit songs together. I knew I was incredibly lucky to have experienced that opportunity, and I didn’t want to mess it up or take any second of it for granted. Most importantly, I didn’t want to miss a minute of what was happening. I just wanted to live in the moment and enjoy it. I often look back on that memory as one of the most magical moments of my life, and witnessing her shocking reaction to my voice made it even more magical than ever.

How do you handle criticism or feedback? Are there specific strategies you use to grow and improve as a vocalist?
I believe I handle criticism and feedback very well, as I believe both constructive criticism and feedback are how we are able to most adequately grow in our professional as well as personal lives as human beings. I believe the lessons I’ve learned and the challenges I have faced over the past years have truly been the stepping stones that have guided me on this journey of growth to where I am today in my career. I believe the criticism I’ve faced has allowed me to develop thick skin while providing me with the most indestructible mindset and mentality to have for myself as a performing artist in the entertainment industry. I truly believe that if it weren’t for all of the feedback I have received and the criticism I’ve experienced, I wouldn’t have achieved half of the accomplishments I have thus far in my career, as I believe the feedback and criticism have pushed and propelled me in a way like no other. It has given me the determination and drive I need to develop a work ethic like no other. It has ultimately led me to strive for success, as it pushes me harder to continue improving and learning new things every day. I have always openly listened to and applied every ounce of constructive criticism I’ve received, and any other sort of criticism is solely used as fuel and fire for my dreams.

I am careful with the criticism I choose to consume, and I let the rest go in one ear and out the other if I believe it’s not beneficial for me or what I stand for and represent as both an artist and an individual. There are several specific strategies I use to grow and improve as a vocalist; one of the most common is being self-aware of my skill set and what I wish to improve on as time goes by. I always set new goals for myself, both professionally and personally, as an artist and individual. I thrive in areas where I am constantly challenged, as it keeps me motivated and determined to achieve that goal, ultimately allowing new opportunities for growth and improvement to blossom.

We heard that you are a proud partner with St. Jude. How did you become involved with St. Jude’s, and what inspired you to support their cause?
Yes, I am! I’ve been a proud partner with St. Jude for about three years now. St. Jude’s is committed to advancing cures and means of prevention for pediatric catastrophic diseases through both research and treatment. I became involved with St. Jude’s when I began donating several school supplies a couple of years ago at a location near me. I walked into St. Jude’s only expecting to drop off my items and leave, but I left St. Jude’s with a whole lot more than I expected. I left St. Jude’s with an abundance of love and a hope of healing. Seeing such bright smiles and how appreciative all of the patients were at St. Jude’s really touched my heart. It opened my eyes and changed my perspective as I witnessed how grateful the patients were for the same “ordinary” things we, as humans, take for granted every day. I felt surrounded by such love, strength, and perseverance that it inspired me to support their cause and become a part of a community and mission greater than myself.

What specific projects or initiatives have you been involved in with St. Jude’s, and how have they helped raise awareness or funds for the organization?
I have been involved in several projects and initiatives with St. Jude’s, my most recent projects being their school supply drive and Christmas card collection. One example of how they have helped raise awareness is by allowing others the opportunity to donate new or gently used school supplies to help patients strive for success in everything they do. These two projects have also raised funds for the organization by building a buzz around their mission to make sure no child is denied treatment based on race, religion, or a family’s ability to pay. A mission that speaks in loud volumes for itself and for the love St. Jude has not only for their patients but for their families and loved ones as well.

Looking ahead, what are your goals and aspirations as an artist?
There’s so many to choose from, but if I had to just choose a few, I would say that a big goal of mine that I am determined to achieve as an artist is definitely releasing my debut EP. As I mentioned before, and if you didn’t already know, I am also a songwriter in addition to being a singer, so my original music is super important to me. Songwriting is where I’m most authentically able to share my story and innermost feelings through the songs I write. Songwriting is such a therapeutic outlet for me as an artist, and I find it beyond magical to be able to have others listen to experiences I’ve gone through and relate to the emotions presented through both the lyrics and vocals of my music. I also aspire to go on a world tour one day. I would love nothing more than to be able to share my music with all of the world. That is one of my ultimate dreams as an artist that I am working so hard towards one day being able to achieve.

Are there any upcoming projects you would like to share?
Absolutely! As I mentioned earlier, I have been in the recording studio working nonstop on my upcoming debut EP, and I am so excited for all of my original music to soon be yours! It is set to release in 2024, although a release date has not been set yet. Make sure to follow my social media platforms to stay in the know of all of the projects I am working on so you can be up to date on all the things I have coming up in the entertainment industry!

It’s been a crazy past few years. How have you been staying positive?
It’s definitely been a crazy past few years, to say the least. At least for me, these past few years have been so hard for me to manage my mental health. I like to be transparent and open about the importance of mental health, as there've been a lot of hardships and challenges I’ve faced in both my personal and professional life as a performing artist. There were definitely lots of times when it felt like it could have defeated me if I let it, but that was the key. I didn’t let it. Or rather, I wouldn’t allow myself to let it happen.

Over the years and as I grew older, I realized that we are all going to struggle and experience times of strife and sorrow, but we must make the decision to be wise enough to use our struggles as strength for ourselves and for our future. Not only for the sake of ourselves, but for the sake of the ones who come before us as well as the ones who come after us. Because at times we might feel like we don’t have the strength or motivation to keep going, and that’s ok, but we have to remind ourselves to keep pushing, not only for the sake of ourselves but for the sake of others. I know that so many others who came before me wish they had the opportunities and resources I am so lucky to have. In my eyes, the best way to overcome any obstacle is to remain grateful for everything and to develop a mentality where you don’t take anything for granted.

Tomorrow is not promised. Tomorrow is never promised. Knowing that empowers me to be grateful for every gift and to make the most of it, whether I feel like it or not. I have learned that the most successful people in life don’t lean on what they think, but rather on what they know. What they know they need to accomplish, regardless of what they’re thinking at that given day or time, I’ve learned it’s best not to lean on our own understanding but to trust. To trust God in times of need and to trust others to be there for us when we need a helping hand. But I’ve also learned that, at the end of the day, we only have ourselves, and that has to be enough for us. So many of us spend our whole lives hating ourselves and who we are without realizing we wake up each and every day only as ourselves, whom we have failed as we have filled with hatred. Instead, we need to flip the narrative by spending our valuable energy and time focusing on filling ourselves with love each and every second rather than hatred, because I can guarantee you it’s going to not only make a difference in your life but also in the lives of everyone else around you. Positivity comes from the mind but is revealed in the heart and spirit. Reminding ourselves and our neighbors to stay positive and to always look on the bright side of life may be the biggest blessing we can give to ourselves and to others.

What is your motto in life? Any final words of wisdom?
It’s so difficult to choose only one motto, but if I had to choose one, I would choose “If you can dream it, you can do it.” Walt Disney. I’m sure many can resonate with this motto, but this motto has reminded me even through times of doubt and worry that so long as I keep dreaming and believing in myself, my talents, and my story, anything is possible. I believe that the one factor that kills more dreams than anything else is the fear of failure. I live by this motto because I know I am capable of achieving all of my dreams and that nothing is impossible unless I choose to stop believing in the power of my dreams. And on that note, as for my final words of wisdom, I would like to remind everyone to always follow their dreams and listen to their hearts. If your heart is trying to tell you something today that you just can’t ignore or shake off, it’s for a reason. Trust what it’s telling you, and follow your dreams with all of your heart. Anything is possible as long as you never lose faith and keep your dreams alive. You were made for more than to be controlled by fear, doubt, and insecurity. Grab your life by the shoulders and propel yourself forward into the life you believe you were destined to live. Leave your own unique legacy in this world that is true to who you are and who you are proud to have become.

To learn more about Daisy Close, please follow the links below:
Instagram: @daisy.close
Daisy Close

Daisy Close - Chasing the Dream