FIRST EDITION AUGUST 2018
contents, 03/ ROCKY LYNCH on pushing the limits
17/ HAYLEY ORRANTIA on balancing acting
05/ LILIMAR on crossing off her bucket list
19/ MADDIE POPPE on life after winning
09/ SARAH DESJARDINS
21/ ISABELLA GOMEZ on the importance of
with The Driver Era
goals
to Impulse
on what drew her
and singing
American Idol
representation on television
11/ ECHO KELLUM on what to expect next
23/ SIENA AGUDONG on what’s to come on
13/ TASYA TELES on how The 100 changed
27/ BAHARI on their musical journey to fame
on Arrow
everything
Star Falls
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Vanessa Salles CREATIVE DESIGNER Karla Silva
Follow us at
@thedailyshuffle
ROCKY LYNCH of
the driver era interview by VANESSA SALLES photo by MALLORY TURNER
IF THE DRIVER ERA ISN’T ALREADY ON your radar, you’re doing it wrong. Comprised of Rocky and Ross Lynch, the duo’s innovative sound makes for some incredibly repeat-worthy tracks. Making their debut earlier this year with the poprock “Preacher Man,” the synth-driven single scored the brothers’ their first appearance on the Billboard charts since their departure from the decidedly poppier R5. With massive hooks and immaculate production, songs like “Preacher Man” and their newly released single, “Afterglow,” show the tight musicianship that the Ross brothers have honed over the years.
When asked to take us back to the beginning of The Driver Era, Rocky recalls being in South America when the two decided to take the leap into the new project. “I think we were actually on a rooftop,” he shares. “It was a late night and we were just throwing ideas at each other on what we’d do next. We didn’t have a name at the time and we didn’t really know where it was headed but that was the moment that really kick started everything. The Driver Era is still only an idea; we’ve barely breached the possibilities that I think we’re capable of.”
Avoiding restricting their vision to any specific sound or style, the duo knew one thing for certain: they wanted to create music without any self-imposed limitations. No stranger to the studio, Rocky and Ross are always looking for their next chance to create and record. “At the initial start of the band, Ross lived in LA so we were constantly working and putting down ideas every day.” Rocky adds, “It’s been a little trickier now that Ross is shooting/living in Vancouver but I might fly up there soon to finish a couple more tracks before we go on our festival run at the end of the summer.” Pursuing a passion project, although incredibly fulfilling, can also be incredibly nerve-racking. Fortunately for The Driver Era, listeners have been welcoming the duo with open arms. Writing, performing, and producing their own tracks, Rocky and Ross use their stylistically unpredictable pop to purposely blur the lines of genre and explore their more experimental tendencies. “The reaction has been tremendous,” Rocky reveals. “It’s those good reactions from the fans that keeps me going. In between releases, it’s easy to kind of forget about that feeling of people appreciating an idea that you’ve put your heart and soul into. So, every time we finally drop a new song, it feels really good!” With a built-in fan base from their former R5 days, it’s clear that their fiercely loyal fans don’t plan on straying anytime soon. However, The Driver Era, have also managed (and rightfully so) to introduce their music to a whole new audience – one that’s hungry and appreciative for the way the band channels their restless creativity to capture a certain classic feeling while still looking toward tomorrow. “I was live-streaming the other day on Instagram and asked the group of people watching if they had been around since the R5 days or if they were new listeners… it was about half and half which I was not expecting at all. It’s cool,” Rocky gushes.
Though he isn’t one to really remain active on social media, Rocky recognizes the importance of having a platform and the power of it. “The smart phone is a major part of people’s lives now. It’s your companion, your friend, your pet. People don’t go anywhere without it! Now, social media is arriving at a point in people’s lives where this is how they showcase themselves; it’s an interactive and routinely updated resume. It only gets better and more addictive with time. With that being said, I don’t know if The Driver Era would be where we are without it.” Taking things day by day, it’s uncertain when the band’s debut album will be released. However, Rocky assures it’s coming this year! “It’s just a matter of when,” he says. “I’d be lying if I said everything is going to be smooth sailing on the business side of things. But, I do enjoy figuring out the music side.”
lilimar interview by VANESSA SALLES photo by ROWAN DALY
STARRING IN NICKELODEON’S KNIGHT Squad, Lilimar is an actress you won’t soon forget. Born and raised in Venezuela, the 18-year-old found her passion for acting at a very early age. “When I was about six years old, my family and I moved to Miami, Florida,” she reveals. “My parents had realized my passion for putting on shows and performing for people and thought that if I were to have any real shot at pursuing a career at it, Venezuela wasn’t the place to do it.” After landing some early jobs in Miami, the opportunity to audition for Nickelodeon came knocking. “There was a big open call where the network was looking for new talent,” Lilimar recalls. “They ended up bringing me to L.A. and I spent two weeks preparing for a showcase – that’s basically how Nickelodeon discovered me!” Getting her big break on Bella and the Bulldogs in 2015, Lilimar built a fan base that wasn’t ready to see her leave the network once the series wrapped. Fortunately, Nickelodeon felt the same way and knew they had to have her be apart of their new series. “When I first read the script of Knight Squad, it was for the role of the princess,” she says. “I thought it was cute but I didn’t really know if I’d be what they were looking for. Then, they sent me the script for Sage, who is my current character. Sage is the total opposite of the princess and is so evil; I was instantly drawn to her because she’s so interesting.” Set in a contemporary era, the Knight Squad realm is one that features everything. “It’s interesting because it’s not set in the medieval times,” Lilimar explains. “It’s really a time of its own and it’s this magical place that has all these fun things like knights. I thought it was so cool that girls get to be apart of the knight squad because it’s personally something I’ve never seen on television. I think the show is really different and kids that watch it will know that girls can do whatever they want!”
Working alongside other actors her age, the Nickelodeon set is always full of laughs. “The cast and I were really excited about the blooper reel,” she laughs. “At the end of the day, we’re just teenagers playing around swords. We did a lot of our own stunts and that included a lot of dropped weapons! There were so many times that the camera or mics were on and we were just having fun with each other – those are some of my best memories on set.” When choosing roles that she thinks are right for her, Lilimar has one thing in mind: doing the unexpected and portraying someone that’s nothing like her. “When it comes to a role, I always like going for something that’s very different from the way I am in real life,” she explains. “I love evil characters and complex ones where you have to really study them to figure out their mindset. Those are the ones that challenge me as an actress.” When she isn’t busy filming, Lilimar has proven herself to be a serious fashionista. In fact, the 18-year-old recently launched her own collection with jeans.com! “Having a collection was a longtime dream of mine,” she gushes. “When the opportunity presented itself, it was a no-brainer for me. When we first started designing, the main priority was comfort. I wanted to create something that anyone and everyone could wear and feel good in. I know that everyone has their own curves and body type and I wanted to make shopping something easy and fun for them!” As for future plans, Lilimar’s got a few things she hopes to cross off her bucket list. “I want to travel,” she shares. “I want to visit places I’ve never been and meet international fans! I think that would make for some incredible memories.”
SARAH DESJARDINS interview by VANESSA SALLES photo by KRISTINE COFSKY
NEWLY GREENLIT FOR A SEASON TWO, Impulse might just be the most binge-worthy show of the year. Streaming exclusively on YouTube Premium, the action series stars familiar faces and scene-stealing newcomers that keep you at the edge of your seat from start to finish. Sarah Desjardins, a break-out actress that you’re going to want to get to know, is Jenna Hope: “a layered, extremely complex human.” With a character development that keeps the viewer rooting for her, Sarah’s on-screen presence is one to take note of. “The show is extremely well written which was a huge draw for me,” she reveals. “Jenna has so many things she’s wrestling with, both internally and externally, and I was very excited to have the chance to portray that.” Though the series features dark and intense scenes, the vibe on set was much lighter. “We have so much fun with each other,” Sarah shares. “I love all of these people so dearly; they are the most talented, kindhearted people I have ever met. Of course, there were definitely times that we’d take a beat and soak in the circumstances in-between takes because we recognized the serious topics that the show hits on and we focused on making sure we were respectful of that.” Starring opposite Maddie Hasson, the on-screen sisters have formed an unbreakable bond, on and off set. “Don’t get me started on her because I won’t stop,” Sarah gushes. “I feel so lucky to have her; we definitely grew closer during filming but we just had an instant and natural connection when we first met. The two of us were both afraid of one being ‘too cool’ for the other but that was definitely not the case! We feel so seen and heard by one another. We talk nearly everyday and I’m so glad that she’s my Henry.”
Impulse, while diving deep into the Sci-Fi world, manages to stay tethered to reality by exploring different, important, and underrepresented themes and journeys. For Jenna, that means dealing with the loss of her mother, the pressure of being a perfectionist, learning how to be a sister, and questioning her sexuality. Throughout the series, Jenna deals with attempting to figure out what she likes and how she identifies -- something Sarah hopes is discussed in the next season. “Towards the end, we definitely see a more relaxed version of Jenna. I’m excited to see what that means for her because she deserves to feel more comfortable with herself!” Though the show only made its debut earlier this summer, a season renewal is a testament to its addictive and wildly must-watch nature. After a successful weekend at San Diego Comic Con, it’s safe to say that fans of the series (us included!) hope it sticks around for the foreseeable future. “The reaction to the show has been so positive and overwhelming,” Sarah notes. “It’s such a gift! When you work on a show for months, it belongs to the people who are creating it. You go on thinking that it’s magic but you can never really tell or know how the audience will receive it. Releasing it into the world and finding that audience that understands what we were trying to do is just so wonderful.” As for what else the break-out actress has going on, Sarah has one thing topping her 2018 bucket list: “I want to put myself first and make sure I’m doing things that make me happy,” she shares. Of course, Sarah wouldn’t be Sarah if she didn’t make sure to sprinkle that happiness onto others as well. “Spreading love and compassion is one of my favorite things to do,” she says. “If you feel the impulse to say something nice to a stranger, do it! You never know what it might mean to them.”
ECHO KELLUM interview by VANESSA SALLES photo by LESLIE BRYCE
WITH SIX SEASONS UNDER ITS BELT, THE CW’s Arrow has become a staple in the network’s must-watch line up. Echo Kellum, who stars as Curtis Holt, has quickly become a fan-favorite. His delivery of hilarious one-liners and heartfelt moments onscreen has cemented the actor as an indispensable part of the show.
Regardless of how that plays out, fans can count on Curtis and Felicity remaining friends. “I think Curtis and Felicity put a lot of the tension aside toward the end of the season,” Echo adds. “They’ve definitely hit a stride of caring about each other and will always want to be apart of each other’s lives. Going forward, I think we’ll see their friendship grow. That’s something I’m personally hoping At the end of season six, Team Arrow finds itself di- for because I love seeing them together!” vided and, ultimately, without a leader when *spoiler alert* Oliver Queen is sent to prison. “Curtis, Rene If there’s one thing that fans of the hit series can and Dinah all left Team Arrow but it makes sense count on every season, it’s having an evil villain that the whole team would come together to try and that everyone loves to hate. Season six introduced help him,” Echo reveals. “Oliver makes such a huge us to Ricardo Diaz, a role that Kirk Acevedo made sacrifice for everyone else by throwing himself un- unforgettable. “I’m a huge fan of Kirk,” Echo gushder the bus and it’s something that they all recognize. es. “As a person, he’s so down-to-earth and just so Honestly, I think that the citizens of Star City need to fun to be around. To get to work with him and see show Green Arrow some more love… he’s been one how much he brings to the character of Diaz and of the main forces behind keeping the city safe and how he makes this villain so ruthless and badass is keeping it standing. I don’t think anyone would be a very cool thing to witness.” able to handle things the way that he does.” When revealing what’s coming up next, Echo For Curtis, Rene, and Dinah, returning to Team Ar- promises more of Diaz. “I love the fact that the row would mean finding a way to trust Oliver, Fe- Diaz storyline is stretching more than one season,” licity and John again. “I certainly think that they felt he says. “I don’t think we’ve done much of that and justified in leaving the team,” Echo shares. “There I think fans are really going to love it.” As for the was a breach of trust and that can be hard to come fate of Team Arrow, fans are going to have to tune back from. In Curtis’ perspective, I think he felt be- in to find out. “They keep a very tight lid on what’s trayed because he had this history with the team be- to come,” Echo laughs. “Personally, I hope we get fore Rene and Dinah even came along. He had nev- to see Curtis find love and maintain some good reer done anything to make them question his loyalty lationships. I hope that he and Felicity continue to and being lumped in the same category as the others work together on tech and that the team puts their is what really bothered him.” differences aside and comes together for the sake of the city. Of course, I’m always hoping for some twists, turns, laughter, and surprises. We’ll see!”
TASYA TELES interview by VANESSA SALLES photo by GILLES TOUCAS styled by YAHAIRA FAMILIA make up & hair by NICOLE WALMSEY AARON LIGHT
IF WATCHING THE 100 ISN’T PART OF YOUR weekly ritual, it’s time to change that. With season five currently airing on The CW, the gritty sci-fi drama routinely pushes the boundaries of network television and has an all-star cast that’d make anyone want to sit down and binge every episode. Tasya Teles stars as Echo, a former Ice Nation warrior that would do anything to protect her people. “What made me fall in love with Echo was how brassy she is,” Tasya shares. “There is this uncompromising ferociousness that Echo yields. But what’s cool is that she veils it behind a very tranquil exterior. She’s a force of nature, and a badass, but also has this smooth, regal quality to her. One of my favorite things about her is that she doesn’t apologize for who she is. Echo marches to the beat of her own drum, and you can get in or get the hell out of her way.” With a character development that’s impossible to deny, fans can’t help but root for Echo. “She’s gone through so much in the time we’ve known her,” Tasya says. “Luckily, she’s resilient and can adjust to her surroundings easily, being a former spy and all. But I would say that up till now, Echo has always lived her life in service of others and never really made any decisions as an individual, based on her own moral code. Everything she did was always in support of what she thought was best for her tribe. She didn’t even know there was a different way of life and that she could be her own person. Now that she has disconnected from her tribe, she has finally been able to step outside of all the indoctrination and become herself. It’s so exciting playing her now, because we are starting to see an authentic Echo, who isn’t just a reflection of her tribe. The audience is getting to know the real Echo, at the same time that she is.” As for what viewers can expect next on the series, Tasya promises it’ll be nothing short of epic. “I’m always in shock when I hear any whispers of what the writ-
ers are cooking up,” she laughs. “Their stories are always so complex and unexpected; I never find myself thinking, ‘I saw that coming!’ After the first read, I’m usually sitting in total stillness for a good few minutes just trying to process it all in my head.” When it’s time to get to work, Tasya reveals that it’s the vibe on set that keeps everyone pushing through. “’The 100’ isn’t a glamourous show to film,” she says. “There are a lot of stunts, stage fighting, blood, mud, and general savagery while we shoot in the Canadian mountains. The extreme weather conditions up there, met with the intensity of the show’s demands, has created a really tight family bond between the cast and crew. We’re all there for one another and get through the long rainy days with silly humor and dumb jokes... it’s surprisingly effective! The vibe on set is always very fun, supportive, and focused.” When she’s not filming, the actress keeps busy with other projects. “There are actually a few projects coming out that I’m super pumped about,” she reveals. “I’m most excited about a passion project of mine that I’ve been developing for a few years now. It’s called The Unslaved and I will be launching it online very soon!” Tasya, who has a very open line of communication with her fans, strives to stay connected and give back all the love she receives. “I’m all about spreading those virtual hugs,” Tasya says. “I absolutely love sharing my experiences online because I think we all need to support one another. Any lessons or tricks that I’ve learned, I go ahead and pass it on. From fashion, to fitness, to cooking and healthy living, it’s super important that we all share the positivity online. That way, we’re able to grow as a community and as people! I’ll be doing a lot more of that via The Unslaved so I can’t wait for people to be able to check it out.”
HAYLEY ORRANTIA interview by VANESSA SALLES photo by KRISTIN BARLOWE
A VETERAN ON THE ABC NETWORK, Hayley Orrantia shines as Erica Goldberg: the oldest and most rebellious of the Goldberg kids. With season five wrapping earlier this year, The Goldbergs has become a network-defining show, prompting a spinoff series [Schooled] that’ll premiere later this year. For Hayley, wanting to be apart of the show was a no-brainer. “As soon as I read the script for The Goldbergs, I knew that this show was the epitome of the kind of comedy I wanted to work in,” she says. “The writing is hilarious but also heartfelt; I just knew that I needed to be involved.” Five years in, Hayley’s made a name for herself with hilarious one-liners, trendy looks from the 80s and heartfelt moments that have truly cemented Erica as a fan-favorite. With the excellent writing on the show, Erica’s character development is one that gets better with each season. “There are so many ways for Erica to grow,” Hayley notes. “The writers have a lot of freedom with her storylines and it’s exciting to see where they take her. I’ve loved watching her accept herself over the years and challenge herself to explore new avenues within music. For me, that’s kind of where life imitates art.” Though the hit series has already built a loyal fan base, one might argue that Hayley’s the biggest supporter of them all. “Honestly, I would be a fan of the show even if I wasn’t on it,” she laughs. “I get so excited to hear about the new storylines and always beg the writers for more information. I have zero idea what’s to be expected for season six but I know it will be great!” If it was up to Hayley, the upcoming season would find a post-college Erica trying to navigate her way through adulthood. “I would love to see Erica go back home,” she reveals. “I want to see her go through the trials and tribulations of a kid coming home from college and just trying it figure it all out. So many people go through that and it can be heartbreaking, hilarious, and inspiring.”
Brilliantly casted, the love you see between the onscreen family is just as strong behind the camera. “It’s so easy to be excited for work,” Hayley shares. “With the kind of people we have on our show, the set is always very light-hearted and welcoming. I’m not just talking about the actors! The writers, crew, and producers all bring such incredible energy to the table. Creating a great show requires a great attitude from everyone involved - I think that just brings the show to the next level.” Acting-wise, Hayley has ambitions to work behind the scenes one day. “It’s definitely something I’ve thought about.” She adds, “I would love to direct but I witness everyday just how hard it is! I’d love to just start off with smaller indie projects with some friends and gain some knowledge before I ever try to take it on seriously.” Until then, Hayley splits her time between acting and singing (another thing she’s incredibly talented at). Just a few months ago, the country singer embarked on her 20-city “Strong, Sweet & Southern” tour and made it one that those in attendance won’t soon forget. “It was such a phenomenal learning experience for me,” she recalls. “I loved getting to meet fans of the show and formally introduce myself to them as a singer. It’s some of my favorite memories!” Coming up, Hayley’s got new music in the works! “I’ve been writing and recording quite a bit,” she reveals. “It’s a little difficult to release music as an independent artist but I’m trying! I have three songs that are just about finished and I’m hoping to release them before we start production on season six!” On the rare occasion that Hayley has some down time, the actress/singer focuses her energy on spreading love. “I want to be a positive influence on this younger generation,” she shares. “I’m a huge advocate for being modest, honest, real, and loving to all things.”
MADDIE POPPE interview by VANESSA SALLES photo by HOLLYWOOD RECORDS
BECOMING A FAN-FAVORITE EARLY IN THE SEASON, Maddie Poppe’s breath-taking performances are sure to make the artist a household name. Winning the title of 2018’s American Idol, the talented songstress is one you’re going to want to get to know:
Performing in front Lionel Richie, Katy Perry and Luke Bryan is major. What was that like?
At first, it was really surreal. I was so in awe of them and just completely star struck that I kind of couldn’t comprehend anything they were saying. It’d just go in one ear and out the other, haha! As the season went on and they’d give me criticism, I felt more comfortable around them. It meant a lot to be able to sing in front of such successful artists.
Is there a piece of advice from the judges that stuck with you?
One thing that the judges would always tell me is that they loved the way that I was true to myself. Every week, I’d try to show them another layer of myself and stay authentic to my sound. They were so encouraging of everything I was doing and so I tried to listen to them every week.
Has the AI cast kept in touch since the finale?
Absolutely! We’re constantly talking about what we want to do on tour and what our plans are. It’s nice to keep in touch and just know what’s going on because we’ve all been getting different opportunities and just branching out trying to figure it all out. We all went through such a magical journey together and it’s definitely bonded us.
What’s the songwriting/creating process usually like for you?
It’s different every time but writing a song is never something that I can just sit down and decide to do. Ideas just come to me at random times and I just take it from there! One thing that is certain is that I can’t write about things that I haven’t experienced personally. Everything that I write is something that has happened to me or is a feeling that I’ve felt.
What has the response been like to your newly released single, ‘Going, Going, Gone’?
It’s been crazy. When I released the video, I just watched the numbers grow by the hour and the comments were all so nice; people have been so supportive of me which I’m grateful for.
What’s the best way for fans to get your attention on social media?
Be funny! The things that catch my eye the most are things that make me laugh. I also love all the artwork from fans – I just love staying connected to them!
What can fans expect from you for the rest of the year?
I’m planning on releasing a few more singles this year and I’m really excited about it. I’ll hopefully continue to write and maybe even go on my own tour after I wrap up the Idol tour!
For those wanting to audition for the new season of American Idol, what kind of advice would you give them?
My first piece of advice is to stay true to yourself! It never works when you try to be something that you’re not because people will see right through that. Staying true to yourself is what’s going to make you the happiest and that’s what fans are going to see and connect to. Secondly, don’t expect an easy road. I was told no a hundred times before I auditioned for AI so don’t get discouraged! Most importantly, just go for it. You’ll never know until you try!
isabella gomez interview by VANESSA SALLES photo via INSTAGRAM
TWO SEASONS IN, NETFLIX’S ONE DAY AT A Time has a found a home in the hearts of an insatiable fan base. After learning that the series could potentially wrap after just 26 episodes, fans took to Twitter to flood their timelines with the hashtag #RenewODAAT and demand action. Fortunately, Netflix obliged with an order for a third season, which can be expected to arrive in 2019. If you’re familiar with the show, you’re familiar with Isabella Gomez. The 20-year-old Latinx actress stars as Elena Alvarez, a breakout role that’s proven that the Colombian starlet is one to watch. “I’m playing one of my dream roles right now,” Isabella gushes. “Elena is layered, cultured, and passionate. I get to do both comedy and drama and portray a character that genuinely means something to people. Plus, I get to work with a cast full of geniuses. What else could you ask for?” Gomez’s portrayal of Elena and her journey of self-awareness/acceptance is one that resonates with many, particularly the LGBTQ community. “It means everything to me to take on the responsibility of representing the LGBTQ community on our show,” Isabella shares. “As an artist, getting to play a role that truly connects with people is an absolute dream. The LGBTQ community has embraced me and the show in a way that I never expected; they feel like a family and it’s an honor to me to be a vessel for some positive and accurate representation.” The show’s commitment to authenticity plays a big factor in the way the audience has received it. “I think a lot of the fan love comes from them genuinely seeing themselves in these characters,” Isabella says. “We don’t just make the LGBTQ stories up; they come from queer writers, our queer friends and family and so on. We want to make sure that it all it feels authentic and that we get input from people that have had these real life experiences.”
Of course, sexuality isn’t the only topic that the series tackles. “We like to address the taboo subjects that are often disregarded; you’ll see us touch on important issues like immigration, politics, depression, PTSD, religion and so much more,” Gomez adds. “From ODAAT, you can expect to see a family that’s probably much like yours; we’re all just living and learning together.” With the third season now in production, the family-like vibe on set is as real as it is on-screen. “I know that everyone always says their TV-family feels like their own but it’s honestly the best way to describe our set,” Isabella shares. “We are a family. Stage 25 feels like home to all of us and we’re always so excited and happy to be there.” Having a space where she feels heard and appreciated, Gomez takes the opportunities to pitch the storylines she’d like to see for her character. “After season one, I actually went to the writers and asked if there was a way for me to have more scenes with Todd Grinnell,” she laughs. “I think he’s a genius and Schneider is my favorite character! I’d love to continue exploring their friendship in the new season. I’m also hoping to see more of Elena’s school life – I want to see her being more involved with the debate team!” As for what she’s usually up to off-set, the actress likes to spend her time making connections. For those who follow her on social media, there’s no denying the open relationship she has with her supporters. “I know how privileged I am to have this platform and to have a following that is very open minded and wanting to make a change,” she says. “I try to connect with people and have conversations as much as possible. It’s funny, usually it’s the person with the bigger following that’s doing the ‘influencing,’ but I learn so much from the people that support me. It’s made me more educated and better able to have meaningful conversations online.”
siena agudong interview by VANESSA SALLES photo by TRAVIS HAYES
AT ONLY 13-YEARS-OLD, SIENA AGUDONG has a resume that can rival that of someone twice her age. Earning several Young Entertainer and Young Artist award nominations, the talented actress won her nomination for “Best Guest Starring Young Actress 12 & Under” in 2017 for the Young Entertainers Awards. Siena’s breakout role came three years prior to that when she booked the recurring role of “Lulu Parker” on ABC’s Texas Ranger drama, Killer Women. Since then, Siena’s been nonstop; she landed the recurring role of Tiffany on TVLand’s Teachers and Natlee on Nickelodeon’s Nicky, Ricky, Dicky and Dawn. Currently starring in Nickelodeon’s Star Falls, the Hawaii-native proves to be one of young Hollywood’s next big stars; her portrayal of strong-willed Sophia Miller is one that captivates the viewer and leaves them LOLing for more. “I remember auditioning for the show and feeling so anxious about it,” Siena recalls. “When my manager and agents called to let me know I booked it, I screamed about a thousand times.” With a 20-episode order from Nickelodeon, the popular series features funny and chaotic moments that also bring out the heart of the show. If left in the hands of Siena, the first thing she’d do is bring on her dream guest-star, Stranger Things’ Millie Bobby Brown. “It would be so awesome if she played Sophia’s arch nemesis,” she laughs. “However, If I could write my own story line for Sophia, it’d probably be a scenario where she becomes an actress and has Craig coach her. That’d be fun to watch!” Making her feature film debut earlier this year, Siena also stars as Raegan Willis in the recently
released Warner Brothers/Nickelodeon film, Alex & Me. “It was such an inspiring movie to be apart of,” she gushes. “It’s one of those films where, when it ends, it encourages you to work hard and pursue all your dreams; I’m so glad I had the chance to work on such an empowering movie!” Working alongside Olympic Gold medalist Alex Morgan, Siena formed a bond that spewed lessons she won’t soon forget. “It was such an honor getting to work with Alex,” she says. “We had so much fun together and there’s no denying how amazing and inspiring she is. While filming, Alex gave me some very inspirational tips that stuck with me; she also helped me to have confidence and believe in myself during all our scenes. I think fans will really enjoy the movie!” When thinking to the future, Siena’s options are endless. “I would love to work on a big action/drama movie,” she shares. “It’s definitely a bonus if I get to have superpowers and work with any of my favorite actors. Tom Hanks, Adam Sandler, and The Rock definitely top the list!” With her can-do attitude, we wouldn’t write off any of those things from happening in the near future! During her free time, Siena makes sure to stay active. Growing up on an island, hanging at the beach with her family and friends is always her go-to way to de-stress. Of course, the actress also makes sure to use her free time to connect with those around her. “It’s so important to me that I spread love,” she says. “I think that social media is a great way to spread the message and encourage people to spread love and positivity to those around them. I’m a very smiley person and try my best to smile at everyone that passes by! It always boosts my mood and I want people to know that smiling can truly impact the world – you’ll see!”
bahari interview by VANESSA SALLES photo by MAX REYES
FOR THOSE LOOKING FOR THE NEXT BIG thing, BAHARI is it. The LA-based alternative pop trio, known for their rich harmonies, have created a buzz in the music scene that’ll surely catapult Ruby, Natalia and Sidney into stardom. With close to 200k monthly listeners on Spotify, a collaboration with Zedd and a song feature on The CW’s Riverdale, you’re going to want to get to know them:
Take us back to the beginning – what can you tell us about your creative journey and how BAHARI came about?
We all met in the studio from our producers and started writing together immediately! We wrote ‘Wild Ones’ at one of our first sessions and the rest is history.
Growing up, which artist(s) do you remember loving? Do they influence your sound today?
Ruby loved Bob Dylan, Natalia loved Fleetwood Mac and Sidney loved No Doubt. All are such amazing groups/artists so they’re definitely always an inspiration to us.
How would you describe your personal sound and the band’s evolution through the years?
Genres are so hard to tie down to now! Our sound is alternative/electronic/pop. I think we definitely used to be super pop when we started out but now we are going a more edgy, alt/electronic route. Our harmonies definitely make our sound even cooler.
What does the songwriting process usually look like for you guys?
It usually depends on who we’re working with! We’ll typically start with just an acoustic guitar and blurting random stuff out, haha.
When it comes to stage presence, which artist(s) do you take inspiration from?
There are so many! Stevie Nicks and Gwen Stefani probably top the list.
Let’s talk about your recent singles, “Savage” and “Fucked Up” – what has the reaction been like so far from fans? Our fans are the absolute GREATEST. We were so nervous to put those songs out because they are so different from our old sound but people have been so supportive and really liking it all.
When you think of your ultimate career goals, what comes to mind? Definitely headlining major tours! We also are super adamant about using our platforms to do good and spread kindness.
Having toured with artists like Selena Gomez and Birdy, what can you tell us about your touring experiences? What was the biggest lesson you learned about being out on the road?
Being on the road is SO hard but it’s also SO much fun. All the traveling is really tiring but playing live and getting to meet fans makes it all worthwhile.
What should fans be expecting from you guys for the rest of the year?
Fans can definitely expect a new album! We’re hoping to release that this year and also go on tour – those are two things that are on our bucket list this year.
What’s the best way for fans to get in touch?
Just comment or tweet us (@BAHARI)! We love to hear from everyone!
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