If anyone ever doubted Bridgit Mendler’s singing talent, they’re eating their words. After a showstopping performance at Sunday’s Big Ticket Summer Concert, the performer has proven she’s equal parts actress and musician. We got the chance to meet the Disney star and talk about everything from singing to GOOD LUCK CHARLIE.
What did it feel like when you first walked onstage at the Big Ticket Summer Concert?
I was super happy to be there because everybody was so smiley, kind and friendly. They were all giving me a warm welcome, so I was just happy to be there.
How would you describe the style of music on your upcoming album?
It’s mainly a pop album with some R&B, funk and jazzy influences.
Do you write your own songs?
I do. I co-write them, so I wrote them with a couple of different writers throughout the process and we really found a cool style!
Where do you get your inspiration from?
You know, it’s interesting. Sometimes it comes from a certain idea you had for a song or a chord is played and all of a sudden it’s like, “Yes, that’s the image!” It all just comes in one giant swoop. And sometimes, I’ll just literally start writing stuff. We’ll be like, “OK, what does that mean? What are we trying to say?” and then we’ll just build the song off of that.
What are you most excited for fans to hear from your album?
I’m excited for them to hear the whole album, honestly! Having “Ready or Not” out there has been so fun. I’m so excited for people to hear that, but at the same time, there are so many more songs on the album that flesh out my style. I’m excited for people to get the full picture and hear what it’s all about.
Do you prefer recording songs in a studio or performing them live onstage?
You know, they’re very different! When you’re in a studio, you have the opportunity to really finesse your vocals and make sure that it sounds its absolute best. You get the texture and the quality of the sound. When you’re out there performing, who knows what it’s going to sound like! The live performing is so much fun because of the energy of the audience. It brings a whole new emotion to the song when you’re sharing it with all those people.
What made you decide that you wanted to start a singing career?
I randomly decided that I wanted to start singing. I thought that maybe somebody would like to hear all the songs that I’d been writing. I’ve been singing all of my life and I’ve been working on music all my life. I did my little versions of productions when I was 11 and 12 by messing around on Garage Band. I was around 13 when I decided that maybe I should try writing songs for people to hear.
Did you ever have any musical training?
I took vocal lessons here and there, but never really for an extended period of time.
How about for acting?
I did some acting camps and the talent showcases. They’d give you classes for a week or two and then help you to prepare a scene. Then, you’d go and perform it for the audience of agents and managers.
Do you plan to focus more on acting or singing in the near future?
In my near future, I think singing will take the foreground, just because that’s what I’m working on and really pushing right now. But, I really love acting and it’s not something that I’m stepping away from. Right now, I have a chunk of time to really focus on the music, so I’m going to take advantage of it!
Are you filming GOOD LUCK CHARLIE right now? We heard you got picked up for another season.
Yeah, we did! We finished season three and season four starts in January. I’m really excited to go back. I love working with those people!
Looking back to where you started and where you are now in terms of your career, do you believe that things happen for a reason or that you have to go out and make them happen?
I think it’s both. There are reasons why you don’t get certain projects or certain opportunities. It’s not something that you were supposed to be a part of. I definitely had to work hard to get to where I am, but I feel like this is the place in my life where I should be!
Thanks, Bridgit!
Don’t forget that Bridgit’s debut album ‘Hello My Name Is…’ will be available on October 22! Catch the Big Ticket Summer Concert when it airs on Family on September 7 at 8:00 p.m.