The Mag spoke with the finalists who earned a spot in the top six after last night’s episode of The Next Star. From the sixteen finalists, the six who advanced are Melissa from Alberta, JD from Ontario, Parker from British Columbia, Milly from Quebec, April from Manitoba, and Shania from New Brunswick. The conversation covers what reaching the top six feels like and what lies ahead for each of them.
How are they enjoying their time on The Next Star? Parker says, We are so lucky to be here. All the things that famous singers get to do, we now get to do. There are so many opportunities! April adds, I love it and I never want to stop! Milly shares that it’s been a dream come true because she doesn’t perform a lot; she enjoys making YouTube videos, and performing on a real stage in front of an audience is really cool.
What has been their favourite part of the experience so far? Shania notes that they’ve made amazing friends who feel like family, they have the big stage, and they get to sing everything they love wrapped up in one package. JD says performing in front of an audience is his favourite thing. Melissa recalls the day they visited Canada’s Wonderland for a photo shoot; they woke up at three in the morning, spent the day together in a fun way, and that remains a highlight. Parker mentions that there are many photo shoots, and they’re all enjoyable. Milly loved recording her first single, which stands out as her favourite moment. April simply loves hanging out with everyone and living the dream while having fun and staying true to themselves.
What have the judges told them so far that made the biggest impact? Milly offers, Don’t be so tense. Shake it off and be freer. JD adds, Be confident in yourself when you’re singing and don’t second-guess your choices.
What has been the biggest challenge so far? Melissa says the dancing has been tough since they’ve just started dance classes for the choreography. She jokes about stumbling when placing one foot in front of the other, but she praises the choreographer for being patient and skilled. Milly identifies two challenges: her height, which makes choreography tricky, and her vocal technique and breathing. JD points to the sheer number of songs to learn with limited practice time, noting long days and little chance to unwind. Parker admits that pictures can be hard, since he tends to squint and struggles to keep his eyes open in photos.
What advice would they give to other young performers? April emphasizes that being a star means staying kind and patient, and treating others well because that matters for progress. Milly urges others to be themselves and to forget about judges or producers, acting as if they’re talking to friends. JD agrees, saying it’s best to stay true to oneself rather than pretending to be someone else, and to pursue what they love rather than what others love.
What sorts of things help them get on stage and perform? Shania is pursuing her dream and dedicates herself to it because this is what she loves. April notes she’s inspired by her family and their unwavering support, which travels with her everywhere. Melissa focuses on the audience, remembering that most are rooting for the top six and are on their side. Milly finds motivation in knowing they’ve been among 4,000 contestants and that making it this far is a win in itself. JD adds that people come to watch and are there to see them perform, which is a powerful boost. Parker explains that he doesn’t feel much stage fright and typically runs through the dance or warms up vocally in his head.
Has anything made Parker nervous so far? He admits there was one moment of nerves during the first studio audience day, the very first time performing before a live crowd, but once on stage, he felt at ease and confident.
Who are their favourite musical influences? April names Celine Dion for daily inspiration. JD cites Mariana’s Trench. Shania admires Carrie Underwood for her journey in competition and the recognition it brought her. Milly lists Chris Brown as an influence. Melissa looks up to Taylor Swift, Adele, and Whitney Houston, appreciating how each artist represents a different style that she can blend. Parker admires John Mayer and the Rascal Flatts.
Thanks to Shania, Parker, Melissa, JD, April, and Milly. The Next Star airs every Monday at 7 p.m. on YTV. The finale on September 25th will reveal the winner, and in the meantime fans can vote for their favourite Top 6 contestants on YTV.