Exclusive Interview: Pop Culturalist Chats with Caly Bevier

Nineteen-year-old rising pop artist Caly Bevier wowed audiences with her rendition of Rachel Platten’s “Fight Song” on America’s Got Talent. It earned her Simon’s golden buzzer and established her as a new voice in the industry. She inspired millions with her story of triumph and survival, having battled stage three ovarian cancer.

Following her success in the competition, the singer-songwriter released her debut single, “Head Held High”, appeared on The Ellen DeGeneres Show, and opened for Sabrina Carpenter. This past May, Caly dropped her newest single, “Hate U Sometimes”, showcasing a different side of her artistry.

Pop Culturalist caught up with Caly to chat about “Hate U Sometimes”.

PC: How did you discover your passion for music?
Caly: I’ve loved music since I was a little girl. I grew up on musicals like Annie. I figured out that I could sing, and I haven’t stopped since.

PC: Who or what has had the biggest influence on your career?
Caly: My parents! They are always pushing me. I think if it weren’t for them, I wouldn’t be working as hard or be as motivated as I am. Also, my manager has helped me so much along the way. He’s stuck by my side and been there to watch me grow as an artist. He’s always let me do my own thing and figure out who I am as a musician, which is awesome. Those are my biggest inspirations.

PC: Tell us about your new single, “Hate U Sometimes”. What inspired that track?
Caly: “Hate U Sometimes” is my new single, and it’s mainly pop-based. It’s about life and how stressful it can get, but it’s also about being in a relationship. Sometimes that stress can get to you and get into your relationship, and negative feelings can show up, but at the end of the day, it all comes down to love. It’s about letting your partner know that even when you seem mad or unhappy, you always love them.

PC: This is your sophomore single. What is your creative process like when you’re creating a new track? How has it evolved throughout the years?
Caly: I co-wrote my first single. I write a ton and I love being in writing sessions. For this one, it was actually pitched to me, but I related to all the lyrics. I got to go into the studio and help write the bridge, though. Originally, the lyrics were, “Boy, I hope you know that I love you.” But at the time, I was dating a girl, so I wanted to change it to, “Oh, I hope you know that I love you,” so that it was genderless. The profess is different with each single.

PC: You competed on America’s Got Talent. What did you learn from that experience that you’ve been able to apply to your career?
Caly: From that experience, I learned to just be myself, and not let any of the hate or negativity get to me. You have to be positive, trust your gut, and keep chasing after your dreams, no matter what happens.

PC: Your initial audition has millions of views. What were your expectations heading into the competition?
Caly: I thought that I would make it onto the show, but never in a million years did I expect to get Simon’s golden buzzer. I grew up watching American Idol and remember him telling people that they sounded like dying cats. [laughs] The praise that I got from him was insane. I wasn’t expecting that at all.

PC: You’ve overcome a lot in your life. In those dark times, where did you find the strength?
Caly: The people around me really helped me build my strength. I don’t think I originally knew how to take everything. My dad told me while I was fighting cancer, “You can either choose to be sad and negative, you can sulk and be sick, or you can live your life to the fullest, and be positive and happy. Why make yourself sicker by being sad?” My family helped me so much. It’s changed my whole perspective on life.

PC: What does the rest of the year hold for you as we look ahead in 2019?
Caly: The year holds more music releases. I’m planning on doing a song every other month. Hopefully, I’ll be able to get an EP done. I don’t know if it’ll be released this year or next. Hopefully, there will be some performances, too!

Pop Culturalist Speed Round

PC: A band or artist that fans would be surprised to learn is on your playlist?
Caly: Dance Gavin Dance

PC: First album you bought?
Caly: Taylor Swift

PC: First concert you attended?
Caly: One Direction

PC: An album that changed your life and why?
Caly: Probably Lady Gaga’s Joanne! It has so many different stories throughout and I’ve been able to connect with them on different levels.

PC: A venue on your bucket list to perform at?
Caly: Lollapalooza

PC: A must-have on the road?
Caly: My songs! Oh, and social media. I hate that. [laughs]

PC: Someone you’d love to collaborate with in the future?
Caly: Halsey

To keep up with Caly, follow her on Twitter and Instagram, and pick up “Hate U Sometimes” on Amazon Music, iTunes, or stream it on Spotify.