Chance meeting

Teen talks pop life

By Tatat Bunnag
Photos by Varuth Hirunyatheb, and courtesy of Universal Music

In just two years, American pop teen Greyson Chance has become an international star. Back in 2010, Greyson was just an ordinary kid who uploaded a video of himself performing a version of Lady Gaga’s song, “Paparazzi.”

Before long, the YouTube video had almost 50 million views and Greyson was being offered a record deal.

Since then, the 14-year-old musician has toured around the US and Southeast Asia and scored hit singles on charts around the world. His debut album, Hold On 'til the Night was released in August 2011.

During his recent promotional appearances in Bangkok, which included a performance at CentralWorld, Student Weekly caught up with Greyson for an exclusive interview about his recent success, his musical inspirations and his recent collaboration with fellow teen star Ariana Grande.

Student Weekly: When did you first realise that you wanted to be a musician?

Greyson: Music has always been my biggest passion. There’s always been a piano in my house and I’ve been playing it since I was a kid. My sister also plays music, but we never really play together.

Student Weekly: Your life is very busy now and you’ve been travelling a lot lately. Do you miss just hanging out with friends and family back home?

Greyson: I’m really in love with what I’m doing. I do miss home sometimes, but I have a responsibility to do what I’m supposed to do. I love touring and I love meeting my fans.

Student Weekly: Can you tell us about your new single, “Take a Look at Me Now”?

Greyson: I wrote that song for all the people who said that I’d never make it. I’ve actually done it, so just look at me now!

Student Weekly: You’ve cited Lady Gaga, Christina Aguilera, Madonna and Taylor Swift as musical inspirations. Who else do you admire at the moment?

Greyson: I love many different types of music. As a musician, I think I should listen to everything, from heavy metal to hip-hop. I’ve been listening to the band Coldplay a lot lately.

Student Weekly: You recently recorded a song with your friend Ariana Grande. What was it like working together?

Greyson: I’ve known her for about a year and we’re good friends now. Ariana has just started her music career and we hang out quite often. One day we had the idea to record a song together some time. Eventually we actually made it happen. It was a really fun recording session.

Student Weekly: We heard that you’ve been recording songs for your second album. Can you give us any details about that?

Greyson: There’ll be some new music coming out soon, but I can’t really give you too many details right now. But I can tell you that it’s half finished. The next album is going to be a bit different from my first one. I’m not changing genre, but I’m changing my style a bit.

Student Weekly: Is that true that you’re an avid fan of the Harry Potter movies?

Greyson: Yes, I’m obsessed with Harry Potter! I’ve watched the movies over and over again. I love movies generally. I recently watched My Week With Marilyn and I loved it. I want to find out more about Marilyn Monroe’s life now.

Student Weekly: Do you have any advice for other teens who dream of becoming successful singers?

Greyson: If you want to become a musician, just stay positive. Becoming a musician is very tough, especially when you get involved with the music industry. It’s hard to stay confident sometimes, but it’s important to always hold your head up high.