With insane vocals and an impeccable fashion sense, Scarlet Ayliz is a pop-punk superstar in the making. She received two Golden Tickets on American Idol at ages 17 and 18 on seasons 19 and 20, respectively (she had to drop out of season 19 due to her grades in school slipping), and won the judges over again with her own song, "Bleeding." Since then, the fearless Massachusetts native has been writing and recording original music (while still making time for the occasional cover song on social media) and released her third single today, titled "Selfish Love.”
Check out my interview with Scarlet, where we discussed new music, American Idol, her "PVPAnime" series, her time in the local band GRaviToNiK, and more!
MSM: How have you been feeling since the releases of your first two official songs, “Life’s a Bitch” and “Superstar”?
SCARLET AYLIZ: Since the release of my first two official songs, I’ve been feeling more fulfilled. I’ve put many years into finding a voice when it comes to the type of music I put out into the world. I’ve finally found my niche! Feeling all the positive feedback from all over the world has given me a sense of purpose and has motivated me to keep pushing forward!
How was filming the music video for “Life’s a Bitch”? Do you have plans for a “Superstar” video?
The filming for "Life’s a Bitch" was really fun! It was only a day of filming, but almost a month of planning! I got to pick out my own outfits, do my own makeup, and present myself the exact way I wanted to. It was a great day, and I got to learn a lot! As for a video for "Superstar," maybe down the road I will do a full video. I have several new songs coming out over the next few months, and you will see some really cool videos for these!
What was it like auditioning for American Idol not once, but twice, in front of music legends Lionel Richie, Katy Perry, and Luke Bryan and having them give you the Golden Ticket both times?
American Idol was interesting, to say the least. It was an insightful journey and was an emotional roller coaster. I remember being really excited when I got my first Golden Ticket. I was so hyped I jumped in the air and clicked my heels! When I auditioned the second time, I took nothing for granted. I wanted to make the most of the moment, so I made sure my grandmother was out there when “judgment day” came. Having her there made getting the second Golden Ticket a really special moment. I remember being really fond of Lionel Richie specifically. He did a lot to make me feel comfortable when we interacted and even wished my grandmother a happy birthday on a video I did with him! He’s a complete sweetheart and deserves the world!
Were you hesitant to perform an original song on the show during your second audition? Or were you willing to take that risk to stand out?
One thing about me is that I’m never afraid to sing an original. My music is awesome! If others can’t see that, then that's on them. But I’m confident enough in my ability to write and not to be nervous over those kinds of things. I love music of all kinds, but if I don’t take risks and present my own songs when I have the opportunity, then I’d be doing a disservice to myself and the work I put into my art.
How much do you think you’ve grown as an artist since American Idol?
I’ve grown tremendously; my vocal technique and agility is far beyond what it used to be, and I have a voice that can never be silenced. American Idol taught me to stand up for myself, and in turn, that helped me to solidify my place as a strong woman in the music industry. Well known or not, I’m not backing down from anything or anyone.
What advice would you give to younger you, who was bullied in school for looking “different” from your classmates?
Quit hiding the problems at hand. Confront your bullies, and if they don’t back down? Make them.
What is your favorite song that you have covered?
"Dream On" by Aerosmith!
On your website, your bio says that you snuck out of your house at 14 years old to go to a recording studio. How long was it until your parents found out? Would you say it was worth it? What was the song you recorded about?
I was going through a lot at the time I did all of that. I wanted to show my family and anyone else who came into my life that I could do things for myself; I could make stuff happen. They found out when the song was done, and I presented it to them. It was about some weirdo who tried to gaslight me when we were in high school, haha.
What was it like being the frontwoman of the band GRaviToNiK? Would you ever consider being in a band again?
GRaviToNiK was a blast, but, to be blunt, no, I would never be in a band again. I’m still cordial/friends with a few of the members of multiple bands I’ve been in, but when it comes to collaborating on music, everyone wants to be the star of the show. It’s hard to work with people when they can’t accept that it’s a balancing act. We’re all equally as important, and just because I’m the frontwoman doesn’t mean that their parts are less important than mine. Egos and relationships kill bands. So I’d prefer to be a solo act to keep friends and business separate.
Who are your biggest influences or inspirations (in music or just in life)?
I’m most inspired by Beyoncé! It’s really cliche, but I admire her vocal skill and longevity. I’d love to learn from her someday.
What do the non-profits listed on your website mean to you?
MAPS especially means the world. I was 12 years old when I auditioned to be in the MAPS ensemble. It was my first experience working on music with an older group of kids who were in high school. I was the youngest, but I got the opportunity to do my first vocal arrangement for an original song! Taking poems from other students and making songs out of them–that was like heaven. Over the five years I was part of the group, I got to learn so much from that organization, and I really appreciate what it’s done for me. I want to see young people continue to have the opportunity to express themselves in this way. Everyone should go to my website and click the link to donate to MAPS! (www.scarletayliz.com)
Do you have any plans to continue your story “PVPAnime” about your alter egos?
For sure! It’s in the works as we speak. I’ve got over 100 episodes written and about 50 songs for the series. Any animators out there? I also have a book coming out and working on a couple more. I can’t stop writing, whether it's music, scripts, or books.
If you could open for any band or artist on tour, who would it be and why?
I would love to open for Pierce The Veil! They’re my favorite band of all time, and I’ve heard nothing but positive things about them from those I know who’ve had the chance to be in their circle. I think it would be a very healthy and enriching environment to be in.
Where do you hope to see your music career in the next year? The next 5 years?
In the next year I want to be nationally known; I want to reach people and even go to the Grammys! In the next five years I’ll be a global sensation, and I’ll be using my resources to uplift whatever and whoever I can.
