[vc_row][vc_column][vc_single_image image=”23987″ img_size=”large”][vc_column_text]Our interview with Las Vegas native, Mikalah Gordon who made her entertainment debut at only sixteen-years-old as one of the Top 12 contestants on season 4 of American Idol. Currently, the sultry vocalist can be seen featured at the Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas performing inside Rose. Rabbit. Lie. Wednesday’s through Saturday’s starting at 7pm.
Although audiences fell in love with Gordon’s powerful voice and unique stage presence, the singer has also become known for her mark on the LA comedy scene where she has headlined in legendary venues like The Comedy Store and the Laugh Factory.[/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=”23988″ img_size=”large”][vc_column_text]
Hi Mikalah, please tell us a little about you?
I was on American Idol season 4, when I was 16. I went on to host for American Idol Extra, and correspond for the Tyra Banks Show. I had a reoccurring role on “Living With Fran” on WB and “The Unit” on CBS. I started doing standup comedy three years ago, and created a comedy shoe based off of my life called “Starred For Life”. I am currently living in Vegas, where I’m originally from, where I have a residency singing four nights a week at “Rose Rabbit Lie” inside the Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas.
Who is your biggest supporter?
I have a huge family and amazing friends so I feel so fortunate to say I have an incredible support system. But I would have to say my partner Lisa. She keeps me sane and balanced.
Describe yourself in 3 words?
Smart, funny, driven
What is your musical background?
My father and grandfather are both amazing jazz musicians. My dad is a drummer and my grandpa played the saxophone. My grandfather used to play behind Billie Holiday. So it was just a natural fit that I became a singer.
Do you have any music influence?
I’m influenced by a lot of artists, but I really grew up listening to Ella Fitzgerald, John Coltrane, Miles David, and Janis Joplin. I also loved Amy Winehouse.
Define your music in 3 words?
My music is raw, edgy, soulful.
Tell us about working at the Rose. Rabbit. Lie. inside the Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas?
Singing at Rose Rabbit Lie is incredible! The venue is absolutely gorgeous. It has a very old school Vegas vibe, but still very modern and mysterious. It’s really great, because I am constantly able to create. I have the freedom to sing, and do my standup, and dress in gorgeous gowns. I’m seriously living out my five year old dream of being a glamorous singer. Lol! I sing every Wednesday-Saturday starting at 7pm.
What was the feeling of being on “American Idol”? And be one of the Top 12 contestants?
Being on American Idol was the best thing I’ve ever done. It created so many opportunities and opened so many doors. I have made some of my best friends from that show. I am forever grateful for Idol!
You also have been part of the comedy scene at The Comedy Store and the Laugh Factory. Tell us about it?
I started doing standup comedy about three years ago and honestly comedy is my first love. Making people laugh is my favorite thing to do. It’s definitely one of the hardest things I’ve ever done, but so rewarding.
Best advice ever given?
The best advice I was ever given was a quote that said “If it scares you, it might be a good thing to try.” And to always say yes. You never know where that yes will lead you.
What are the 3 things you can’t live without?
Three things I can’t live without would be my dog Bruno, and my niece and nephew who I am COMPLETELY obsessed with.
What music do you like?
I love ALL kinds of music. From jazz, to country, rock to pop. I think it’s important to listen to all types of music to support your personal voice in growing and evolving.
Any loves, other then music?
I love fashion and interior design. I also am obsessed with dancing even though I’m actually terrible. Unfortunately, that doesn’t stop me from living my best life on the dance floor. Lol
Any exiting news you want to share with us?
I am working hard on a few projects that I will be announcing in September! So stay tuned!
How’s a normal day in your life?
Honestly, every day is so different from the next. I travel on the days I’m not at rose rabbit lie. But I wake up, I have my coffee and check my emails. I’ll run any errands I have to get done and than head to the gym. I’ll usually spend the afternoon writing and working on my comedy and then I head to the Cosmopolitan to start my night at my Show!
Idea of a perfect Sunday?
An idea of my perfect Sunday is sleeping in, going to church, and then having a big Italian feast with my family.
Do you support any charity?
I am really passionate about banning the Yulin Festival. I am such an advocate for animal rights and I think it is absolutely awful how those puppies are treated.
What do you think of Social Media?
Listen. I use social media for everything. It is such a great way to connect with people and fans. With everything there are pros and cons. I think that what bothers me most is how people can be perceived. I would hate for young kids, or anyone for that matter, to look at my social media and think how perfect my life is, and compare themselves. Social media is only a HIGHLIGHT REEL.
Where we can follow you?
You can follow me on My Instagram @mikalahgordon and my website is mikalahgordon.com.
Quote: “what if I fall? Oh but darling what if you fly!” -Audrey Hepburn
Book: “The Giving Tree.” Still makes me bawl my eyes out! “The Game Of Life”.
Sports team: Steelers
Food: Pasta
Movie: Mommy Dearest, Blue Is the Warmest Color
TV Show: Absolutely Fabulous, Broad City, Chewing Gum
Holiday Destination: Dubai[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]
