20 Questions is a Q&A interview series with musicians, authors, and everyone in between, celebrating experiences both shared and individual in the messy game of being human.
BELARO, a youthful talent behind the mic, is a soulful Spanish-American artist who is never afraid to take risks and to be different by taking the edgiest side of pop music and making it her own. A fresh blend of today’s top musical talents and of 70’s disco legends like Donna Summer, she brings a new approach to a timeless sound.
In July 2019, BELARO released her debut single “FGIRL,” a fiery reference to female empowerment with an unapologetic edge. Her straightforward messages of never being afraid to call it as it is has caught the attention of listeners worldwide. Her new single “Forever,” co-produced by Olivier Bassil, is a disco-pop anthem with a relatable message about breaking up from toxic relationships. With a 2020 refresh, this song invites people to break away from negative feelings in their own lives and to step into a new an indefinitely more exciting phase.
The singer wrote this song because she felt that it would really help lead people in the right direction when it comes to getting out of a bad relationship, a situation that everyone deals with at one time or another, whether it’s a romance, a friendship, or even the relationship we have with ourselves. “Forever” reminds listeners that they’re too strong to let anyone or anything break their heart.
I had the chance to get caught up on all things BELARO for the latest edition of 20 Questions! We talked about who she grew up listening to, who is influencing her the most these days, her love of Laura Ingalls Wilder and The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, and how both Aretha Franklin and Lady Gaga are timeless in their own ways. And, most importantly, she shared what’s coming up next.
How old were you when you knew you were going to be a singer/musician?
I was already telling everyone that I wanted to be a pop star when I grew up at the age of 5 years old and never changed my mind.
Growing up, which artists did you listen to the most?
I listened to a lot of Lady Gaga, Destiny’s Child, Elvis Presley, Ella Fitzgerald, Ariana Grande, and Selena Gomez.
Right now, who are your biggest influences, both musically and stylistically?
Honestly, I’ve been pulling a lot of influence from Donna Summer both musically and stylistically. I’ve also been super inspired by Lady Gaga’s amazing new album Chromatica.
What would you say is the general theme of your music?
For now, the theme has been disco and pop fused together, but honestly as an artist that’s constantly evolving, so we’ll see what’s next.
The last book you finished?
Little House in the Big Woods by Laura Ingalls Wilder, LOL! It was always one of my mom’s favorites growing up and I never got the chance to read it until now.
The last series you binge-watched?
The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel. One of my favorite shows of all-time.
Favorite movie of all-time?
It’s a tie between Kill Bill and Funny Girl. I love both of those movies so much yet they are so different.
What inspired the songwriting process for your single “Forever”?
Honestly, every artist draws from past or present personal experience when writing. I feel like everyone has gone through a toxic relationship at some point in their life, so that is what inspired “Forever.”
Best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
To write my own music and to make it raw and real, because that’s what connects the most with people.
If you had the chance to meet one celebrity, dead or alive, who would it be and why?
Aretha Franklin. OMG, she is one of my favorites. I would just have died if I had met her. Her talent was unreal.
The most adventurous thing you’ve ever done?
Zip lining, I think, because I’m not a big fan of heights, but it was so fun.
Biggest pet peeve?
My house to be messy. It drives me crazy.
What genre would you describe your music as falling into?
I guess dance-pop, but it varies from song to song.
The most expensive thing you’ve ever shamelessly splurged on?
My Maltese and my unhealthy obsession with Louis Vuitton bags.
One song that you will never be sick of?
“Crazy” by Patsy Cline.
Favorite quote of all-time?
Aretha Franklin: “I’m the lady next door when I’m not on stage.”
One artist you would love to collaborate with one day?
Lady Gaga! I know I’ve mentioned her in so many questions, but who doesn’t love her?
One thing that’s been keeping you sane throughout the COVID-19 pandemic?
All my dogs. They are my little babies.
Are you an introvert or an extrovert?
Definitely an introvert. Being so shy, it’s always been super hard for me to act like an extrovert, but music brings me out of my shell.
What can we expect to hear next from you?
My next single comes out at some point this month. I can’t wait to share this one! Follow me on Instagram for the date announcement.
Follow BELARO on Twitter and Instagram, and stream her latest single “Forever” wherever you listen to music.
