by emily harris
photo courtesy of sophie michelle
Sophie Michelle is a rising musician and actress. At the young age of fifteen, she’s already starred in a BRAT TV Series show entitled “Stage Fright” and has dropped multiple singles. After starting her YouTube channel at eleven, she has grown into a sought after kid-influencer, even gaining brand deals with Justice, Lip Smacker, and Lego. We recently had the chance to catch up with her about her projects both from an acting and music perspective!
Congrats on the release of your newest single, “Still Me!” What was the recording process like for this song?
Sophie: “Thank you! Honestly, every time I record it is always a blast. When I’m in the studio I feel like it’s the place that I have the opportunity to get out of my shell and be creative. It’s always so great being around such amazing and talented people, we’re all just doing what we love. I feel like that’s the most important part, every time we set up an appointment to go to the studio I’m always so excited.”
What was the inspiration behind this song and how did that influence the writing process?
S: “When I was brainstorming for what I wanted my next song to be about, I wanted it to be an empowerment. It’s all about staying true to yourself and knowing who you are as a person, letting go and allowing yourself to enjoy each moment. In the past, I felt like I needed to hide my real personality because I was afraid to show people who I was. Unfortunately, I experienced a lot of bullying in the past and still deal with some cyber bullying for my presence online. So, 'Still Me' is about the moment that I decided to not get so caught up in pleasing others by pretending to be someone I’m not.”
How does it feel to further branch out into the music industry with this release?
S: “It feels awesome! I’m so glad that I get to be spreading my message of positivity and resilience through music and have people relate to me. I feel like my music really connects me with my supporters so I’m really grateful that I get the opportunity to be writing music and singing.”
As you’re also an actress, can you tell us how you got involved with the BRAT TV Series “Stage Fright?”
S: “When I got cast as Lizzy on ‘Stage Fright’ I was so stoked! It was my first ever official series and my first leading role, so it was very memorable. When I was told I got the role I couldn’t wait because I've been a huge fan of BRAT, and love to keep up with their shows! I’m so thankful that the viewers are loving it as much as the cast and crew loved working on it.”
photo courtesy of sophie michelle
Can you tell us about how you developed the character of Lizzy for the show?
S: “Yes! Lizzy is extremely determined and hard-working, she's the stage manager of her school's play, so she makes sure that everything that has to do with the school play is perfect. She pours her heart and soul into her job and she absolutely loves it. Sometimes, she can get a little on the bossy side but it’s just because she cares so much. I guess I could relate to Lizzy on some level, because we are both really determined people. When I was preparing for the role, I really had to put myself in her shoes and think about how she would react to each situation.”
What was the shooting process like, especially since it was made to be released on YouTube?
S: “The shooting process was so special and unforgettable. The cast and crew just became a family. I miss them so so much!!”
You’ve also had brand deals with Lego, Justice, and Lip Smacker. Can you tell us a little more about how you choose which companies to work with?
S: “I have a great team that helps me with the business side of what I do, but for me personally, when I decide whether or not to work with a company, I really think about whether or not that company’s message and ethics are compatible with mine.”
Finally, what inspired you to become the musician and actor that you are today?
S: “My supporters! I always say that they are the reason why I get to do what I love every single day! And they inspire me to be the best version of myself and try my hardest on everything and I hope that I can do the same for all of them.”