Grace VanderWaal talks with AXS about her 'Perfectly Imperfect' journey into the music industry 

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Interview: Grace VanderWaal talks exclusively with AXS about her 'Perfectly Imperfect' journey into the music industry

“The moment that Howie hit the golden buzzer, that really started it all." Grace VanderWaal told AXS adding, "Without that who knows where I would be now." Now, not even two months after this brilliant songstress won the hearts and respect of the nation, 2016\'s America’s Got Talent champion released her first EP entitled,

. Written and crafted entirely by her hand, the EP debuted on Billboard\'s Top 200 at number nine its first week.

It goes without saying that Grace has commanded the attention of the nation with her budding songwriting prowess and unique vocal ability. Industry leaders like Katy Perry, Taylor Swift, Shawn Mendes and Jason Mraz among many, many others recognize and praise her young, distinct talent. Yet at only twelve years old we\'ve only begun to discover what this burgeoning star has up her sleeve. AXS was fortunate to catch up with VanderWaal before the holiday rush was in full swing. We gained exclusive insight into the girl behind the ingenious lyrics and music. She is every bit as charming and intelligent as she seemed on TV, perhaps more so.

AXS: Quite a lot has happened for you in the last year. Let’s start at the beginning. When you auditioned for America\'s Got Talent, in all honesty, what were your expectations?

Grace VanderWall: Honestly, I went to my AGT audition just looking to get some more experience outside of the open mic nights I had started doing. I didn’t even think I would get past the first round, let alone win!!

AXS: Tell me more about your family and background, at what age did you start playing and writing music? How many instruments do you play?

G.VW.: My family is my mom, dad, sister and brother. And then of course our 3 dogs, including my new puppy Frankie! I started playing the piano when I was really young but haven’t played in awhile, and then I played the saxophone in the marching band. It wasn’t until about 1 year ago when I started to play the ukulele. As far as writing songs, I feel like I’ve been writing/creating my own little songs all my life! 

G.VW.: I am inspired by a lot of things, musicians, movies, etc. I’ve always just loved to sing, I can’t remember a time that I wasn’t singing!

AXS: When you sit down to write, what is your process like? Does music come before lyrics, lyrics before music?

G.VW.: The writing process is different every time really. Sometimes I start with lyrics, sometimes it’s a melody, sometimes just a tune. It really changes every time!

AXS: Who are some of your favorite artists/bands currently on repeat in your playlist?

G.VW: Always Twenty One Pilots, Meghan Trainor and Katy Perry! I’ve also been listening on Oceans by Seafret on repeat! Oh and Tom Odell, love him!

AXS: You’ve garnered praise and attention from the likes of Jason Mraz, Bobby Brown, Katy Perry, Reese Witherspoon, Shawn Mendes and Taylor Swift. What does that feel like? Have you met any of them in person?

G.VW.: It’s pretty crazy!! I haven’t met any in person yet, I almost met Katy Perry which would have been so cool! Maybe one day!  But I spoke to Jason Mraz on the phone which was pretty awesome!

AXS: Do you already have plans in the works for a full length album? If so, when and what can we anticipate from that?

G.VW.: Hopefully! I’m just kind of taking things one step at a time and not rushing anything. But hopefully some time soon!

AXS: What advice would you give young, aspiring artists and musicians who dream of accomplishing what you already have?

G.VW: Never give up, even if people turn you down and tell you aren’t the best, keep at it and be patient. I was turned down my whole life, but if it’s supposed to happen it will.

AXS: In retrospect, what do you consider one of the most defining moments for you in the past year?

G.VW.: It would have to be the moment that Howie hit the golden buzzer, without that who knows where I would be now, that really started it all.

AXS: If you could make one Christmas or New Year’s wish, what would it be?

GVW: If I told you, then it wouldn’t come true!

We certainly wish you the best in 2017 Grace, and for years to come in the music industry! You can purchase 

  now at all digital music providers or in retail stores. 

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