Brittany Harkins… kinda like a Miley Cyrus. This young star talked to gendance about her Radio Disney experience, her idols and all chit chat you’d expect from a teen that’s wise beyond her years. This is a must-read interview for every young adult reaching for the stars.

Did you always love to sing?
Yes, since I was 3 years old. When I went to lunch with my mom and grandmother I would sing in the aisles of the restaurants. All of the older ladies would clap and I would just get louder and louder. My mom decided to sign me up for vocal lessons at the age of 6. When I was 11, I auditioned for a local Radio Disney group called RD7 and became a member. Our first big performance was opening for Raven Symone in front of 5,000 people. I knew right then and there that this was the life for me. I thought to myself,  "This is what I want to do."

What was it like to sing with Radio Disney?
It was a life-changing and unforgettable experience. Just knowing that I was part of "Disney" was incredible, but performing with big Disney names like Miley Cyrus, the Cheetah Girls, the Jonas Brothers and Kelly Clarkson with my best friends was amazing.

How did it feel to have your song “almost beat out” Miley Cyrus on Tween Pop Radio?
It was great, because I was being compared to someone like Miley, who’s one of the most successful artists in the world right now. It also feels great to see that other kids are listening to my music and that they really like it. I feel like my hard work is really paying off!

BTW… What is Tween Pop Radio?
Tween Pop Radio is a teen internet radio station, featuring both up and coming teen artists and established artists with hit songs.  

You’ve opened for the most popular teen acts. Who’s the coolest and why?
I would have to say the Cheetah Girls. They were ridiculously nice (in a great way). Super polite and, on top of that, they were amazing singers and dancers.

Wow. If you liked them over Jonas, they must be good. Tell us about your new endeavor.
I've done the group thing in the past, and it was great. I've now decided to go solo with my own back-up dancers. I’m really excited to be standing on my own and letting my vision come through.

How would you define your music?
Upbeat. It has a pop style like Britney Spears with the vocal qualities of JoJo. My song, “Razor”, definitely has more of a JoJo feel, because it has the same producer of JoJo’s “Leave (Get Out)”.

Do you write your own songs?
I write as well as collaborate with other successful songwriters and producers. I get my inspiration from the mood of the music.

What’s the funniest thing that’s ever happened to you on stage?
I’ve had a lot of things happen on stage (both good and not so great), but I would have to say the funniest thing that happened to me would be when I performed at the beach. During a dance section of my song, I was doing a move with my arm and I accidentally smacked one of my dancers right in the face. I felt bad, but it was hilarious!

Who are your role models and why?
My mom is my true inspiration. She always puts her "all" into everything and tries her best. She NEVER gives up and she's been a huge help in my career. Another inspiration is my brother, Dylan. He’s 14 months younger than me and he’s my best friend. He always turns something bad into something positive; he can cheer anyone up.

What’s your best advice for other young next generation performers?
Don't ever give up! Remember, it takes a lot of hard work and there will be a lot of ups and downs. Just have faith in yourself, surround yourself with positive people that really care about you and work hard.

Besides dancing and singing, you love…
I take a lot of dance, keyboard, singing and acting classes. When I'm not doing anything career-related, I love ice skating or hanging out at the mall or movies with my friends. One passion I have is animals. I’m an animal freak. I even care about bugs. (I get upset if my family kills any bugs.) This summer I hope to volunteer for the ASPCA (The American Society for the Prevention of the Cruelty of Animals) or something related to animals.

Thanks, Brittany, for sharing your stories and inspiration with us. Check out her tunes and remember her words of advice on your journey. Dream big, young rising stars!