Greyson Chance first exploded into public view after a YouTube clip of his rendition of Lady Gaga’s Paparazzi went viral, amassing tens of millions of views and drawing the attention of Ellen DeGeneres. DeGeneres signed him to her EleVEN imprint, linking him with a major label pathway that accelerated his music career. His latest release, the video for Unfriend You, arrived as a preview of what fans can expect from his forthcoming debut album Hold On Til the Night, slated for release on August 2. During a visit to Toronto, the Oklahoma native reflected on the whirlwind ride and the road still ahead.
Becoming a star overnight was described as a wild, almost surreal journey. Chance has always dreamed of a life in music, and a major label deal has helped turn that dream into a momentum that he rides with focus. He emphasized that the journey so far has been intense but incredibly rewarding, and he remains dedicated to delivering a clear, personal message through his songs while watching where that path will lead him.
When asked about the message behind his music, Chance stressed that youth in music deserve room to breathe as art. He believes pop music should feel meaningful and human, not merely a vehicle for auto-tune or generic rhythms. With technology shaping today’s music landscape, he feels a responsibility to bring back depth and sincerity to the listening experience, rather than letting the art drift away in the noise.
On the album itself, Chance described the recording process as progressing smoothly. He and a diverse group of producers are helping shape the project, tying up details and fine-tuning tracks as the release date approaches. The work feels dynamic and collaborative, and he is grateful for the creative energy that comes from working with a range of producers who push his sound in new directions.
Meeting Lady Gaga was described as an inspiring milestone. He found her to be a powerful source of inspiration, noting her versatility and her genuine love for her fans. He admired how she stays connected to her audience, and he spoke highly of the craft she brings to music, calling her influence a benchmark for artistry and dedication.
Beyond Gaga, Chance cited a spectrum of influences that shape his sound. Coldplay, Paramore, KISS, John Legend, Elton John, John Lennon, and The Beatles all figure into his musical palette, alongside a broader range of inspirations. He believes that art can draw from many places and still maintain a distinct, personal voice, which he aims to carry into his own work.
Adjusting to life in Los Angeles has gone relatively smoothly. He described a supportive family setup, with his parents splitting time between home and the city, and his mother often traveling with him. He also praised his team and Geffen Records for their ongoing support, emphasizing that having a strong, encouraging team behind him makes the creative process more enjoyable and focused.
When it comes to other projects, Chance keeps his answer simple: more music. The core of his life right now is creating, writing, and refining songs that reflect his experiences and feelings. Music remains his central priority, with all other commitments revolving around this craft.
Lyrics for Chance spring from real-life moments and from ideas he wishes to turn into real experiences. His writing often explores love and its opposite, hate, and he notes that his catalog spans varied themes and moods. He even mentions an unusually whimsical piece about a water droplet, a reminder that inspiration can arrive from the most unexpected places and in unpredictable forms.
If given the chance to collaborate with anyone, Chance would pick John Lennon for a historical collaboration and Lady Gaga for a contemporary one. The idea of bridging generations through collaboration resonates with his broader view of music as a conversation across time, bringing together different eras to create something fresh and meaningful.
In closing, Greyson Chance offered thanks for the unwavering support and the team that has helped him navigate this ascent. The journey continues as he prepares for a new chapter that expands beyond a single moment in the spotlight, leaning into growth, artistry, and a future built on musical exploration.