Check out our interview with singer-songwriter and actress Neska Rose who just released today her latest single “Copy & Paste.” “Copy & Paste” is about a relationship that is at the end of its rope and you’re tired of hearing the same speech and excuses from your significant other.
Neska is most known for the much-beloved character of Gertie on Nickelodeon’s hit mockumentary Drama Club.
Follow Neska @iamneska
Hi Neska, please tell us a little about you?
Hey! As you know, my name is Neska Rose. I am a 15 year old singer-songwriter and actress. I have a twin sister named Libi and I’m raised by a single mom (shoutout to my ma Shira) who taught Libi and me to be courageous and brave. I’ve been singing all my life, and been playing instruments since I was five years old. Since I could remember myself I loved to write little poems, stories, and funny monologues, which led me to be a songwriter. Being a performer was always a part of who I am so it wasn’t too difficult to figure out that I wanted to be an actress, too.
Describe yourself in 3 words?
Intuitive, aware, witty.
How did you get started in the business?
For music, I knew that I wanted to take it seriously eventually. So I worked on my music, wrote a bunch of songs, and took action when I was actually proud of what I had to offer to the world. With acting, taking acting classes helped me to discover my deep passion for it.
How has this changed your life?
It changed my life because it is my life, does that make sense? I feel complete with myself that I get to take something this seriously at an early age. Music has made me figure out who I am and I couldn’t imagine doing anything else.
We’re sure you have been asked this million times but how did you get in the industry?
With acting, I began auditioning at 12 years old, and transitioned to online school at 13 years old. I got an agent and a manager who sent me out to so many amazing possibilities. After a few years of auditioning and doing commercials here and there, I began receiving greater roles.
Describe your sound in 3 words?
Free, bold, and rousing.
Who influenced you and why did you choose to make music?
I am grateful to say that I grew up around really good quality music because of my parents. My mom would never play Libi (my twin sister) and me music for babies, we would listen to The Beatles, Mozart, Bach, Alicia Keys, Elton John etc… Our mom would show us documentaries about music legends, and when we saw them playing instruments, we wanted to play ourselves. There was never an exact moment where I chose music, I just kind of always assumed that it would be a big part of my life. As I got older, my grandmother was the one who really wanted me to start writing songs. At the time, I didn’t think I was capable of it; I was 10. After a few months, our grandmother passed away unexpectedly. I wasn’t quite sure what to do with myself when I found out because I was in such shock. So I figured, I should write a song for her.
Do you play any instrument?
Guitar is the main instrument I play. Acoustic, electric, and classical. I’ve been playing guitar since I was eight. During covid, I picked up the bass, and I am actually obsessed. Piano is also an instrument I dabble into, but I like to leave it more to Libi, my twin sister. She is the maestro. Ukulele was easy for me to pick up since it’s really similar to guitar. In the future, I also want to learn how to play drums.
Do you ever get nervous?
I mean, of course! I think everyone gets nervous because it’s human. When I’m about to do something really major, like recording a song or shooting a music video, I naturally get nervous. I don’t like to label it as “nervous”. It’s more like excited or thrilled. I try to not let the nervous mindset get to me and just bring everything I have to the table when I’m creating; just being myself.
Tell us about your new single “Copy & Paste?”
Copy & Paste is a song I wrote by myself. This song comes from a genuine place of simultaneous vulnerability and madness, so I wanted it to have the most authentic feel. Ainjel Emme, my producer, helped me achieve this level of truth by having many incredible live players, like Anthony Lopez on the drums. Of course, Libi was a huge contribution to the single by singing her perfect harmonies. We are also releasing a music video for this single. I wanted this video to be very simple, so it could showcase all of the intensity in the lyrics and the music.
What’s the story behind the song?
I wrote Copy & Paste 2 years ago, when I was 13. The song is about a relationship I had just enough of. I wanted to find a chance to call them out for all the suffering they put me through, and so I figured I could say it in a song. It was one of the first songs I was proud of because I found a way to let go of all of the insanity in me and turned it into creation. I’ve always had this song in the back of my head and I was really excited to finally start working on it as a single.
Now on the acting side, tell us about your work on Nickelodeon’s hit mockumentary “Drama Club?”
Working on Drama Club was one of the most extraordinary experiences I had in my life. Getting to work with my castmates was so incredible because I got to learn from each and every one of them while making really meaningful friendships along the way. The crew of Drama Club inspired me so much and it was so cool to see everyone in action.
And about your character Gertie?
Gertie began working as the Drama Club’s makeup artist, but as the show goes on, she reveals more and more artistic abilities about herself. She isn’t afraid of what others think of her; she also just doesn’t care. She expresses herself with cool clothes, makeup, and hairstyles. She might come off as a bit tough and aggressive, but she actually likes to look out for her drama club friends.
What other projects you have been part of?
I’ve done a few commercials here and there and some print jobs which have been really fun. I really enjoy being on set and seeing the crew’s minds in action. It’s always such an inspiring workplace, no matter the project.
What kind of roles do you like or would like to play and why?
I have so many different types of goals when it comes to roles. On one hand, I would love to include my improv skills in a role, so something like Parks and Recreation or The Office would be incredible. Can you tell I love mockumentary style shows?
Being on SNL has always been a dream of mine. It would be so cool to do sketches there and perform as a musical guest as well. On the other hand, I love mystery/sci-fi type shows that really blow your mind. Something like Black Mirror or A Series Of Unfortunate Events.
What is the most rewarding part of your work?
Getting to inspire and uplift others. I grew up with so many role models that have helped me believe in myself and do whatever makes me happy. Knowing that I made someone’s day by sharing a piece of my art is the best feeling in the entire world. It just feels fantastic when I get to just be who I am and motivate others at the same time.
What book should every entrepreneur read?
Definitely Kim Kardashian’s book that just has selfies of her.
What would you say are the greatest lessons you learned so far?
Just to stop wasting my time by messing with myself because it’s not going to get me anywhere. Doubting yourself only pushes you back.
How would your best friend describe you?
My best friend is Libi, my twin sister. In fact, She’s sitting right next to me! Here I’ll ask her-
Me: Libi, how would you describe me?
Libi: “Sarcastic, hot, and creative.”
I swear these were Libi’s words, not mine.
What’s next for Neska Rose in 2021?
I’m releasing two more singles after Copy & Paste, which will also come out with 2 sick music videos! I’m so excited for you guys to see them, and just be prepared because it’s completely different from Copy & Paste. Who knows what else, I might get to film another show or film soon or be the first female pilot to fly around the world under 18 years old.
What is your favorite healthy food?
Kale and pomegranate. Yummy yummy.
And your favorite cheat food?
I don’t see food as “good” or “bad” and I don’t think that if you eat a cookie that means you’re “cheating”. Who are you cheating really? No one 🙂 But I guess a food that I like that doesn’t have the most natural ingredients are browniessss!
How would you explain your fashion style?
I kind of take a lot of inspiration from my mom; she literally has the best fashion style ever. A lot of the time I take clothes from her closet, but don’t worry, she doesn’t mind. Big coats, (faux) leather jackets, t-shirts, funky pants, and chunky boots are essential items of my go-to outfits. I guess I could describe my fashion style as fearless, I kind of wear what I feel comfortable with. When I’ll be older and attend award shows I’ll definitely still be wearing this. Oh and suits!!!
What is your own definition of happiness?
Being in the moment. Doing what’s best for you at the moment. It’s quite common to think that you should always plan for what’s ahead of you, but I’ll never be satisfied with doing that. You never know what might happen in 10 years, even 1 year, even tomorrow.
Someone smart told me once, which I totally dig: ”You get to know your future but you don’t get to create it in the way you want to”… So, actualizing and creating your own reality and knowing that is the only way for me to achieve happiness.
If you could meet someone living or dead, who would it be and why?
BOB DYLAN!!! he’s the greatest legend when it comes to his soulful songwriting. I don’t really see him as a singer, but more of a poetry god. I admire his humbleness and perception of the world. In any interview I saw of him every sentence that comes out of his mouth is a lifelong lesson to me. If I’ll ever be in his presence, I’m not sure I’ll be able to contain myself.
Best advice ever given?
Basically what I said about my definition of happiness would be the best advice I’ve ever gotten; from my mother. I used to be kind of stuck in this mindset that I always needed to strive for perfection. To be honest, sometimes I still get trapped, but I’ve grasped a way better understanding after I got this advice. You can never have a perfect future because you’ll always want more and more. You just have to be in the now.
Do you support any charity?
I support any charity that goes for a good cause. I’ve recently connected to St. Judes children’s research hospital. This hospital is a pediatric treatment and research facility that focuses on children’s catastrophic diseases where patients are not charged for their care, travel, food, and housing for the family.
Where do you see yourself and your career in 5 years from now?
Performing and going on tour!!! That’s my ultimate goal, just getting that adrenaline and sharing this vibrancy of singing with a crowd full of people. I see myself putting out a bunch of more albums and I can’t wait to listen to all of the unwritten songs I’ll have in five years. Also all those fun bonuses of being an artist, who knows?
I won’t plan any more than that, I’m just ready for anything.
I’m willing to receive everything there is to come and “what else is possible?” 🙂
Favorite song? Why?
You don’t ask a singer that, lol. I can answer any “what’s your favorite” questions except “what’s your favorite song”. But I guess I could share the most meaningful song to me. “Something Stupid” by Frank Sinatra will always be close to my heart. My grandmother was the biggest Frank Sinatra fan, she would clean and put on Frank Sinatra and would dance and sing along. She told me that she’s been doing this “cleaning and Frank Sinatra’ing” (yes I just made that up) tradition since the 70’s. Every time I listen to this song my heart fills up and I get so emotional. That’s why I listen to it rarely; if I would be listening to it often I would be a weepy mess.
What do you think of Social Media?
It’s the only way you get around nowadays. It really depends how much you let it control you or how much you decide to expose who you are. Social media gives you many tools to share a part of your being and talent which I really appreciate. I’m grateful that so many people can contribute to the world with their being. But it’s so easy to fall into a dilemma with yourself and make your phone own you. It’s like everything in life; you have to use it with balance and learn when to stop.
Where we can follow you?
You can follow me on Instagram- @iamneska
For my music, everything is Neska Rose.
Spotify / Youtube / Soundcloud
Book: The Great Gatsby
Quote: Breathe. Let go. And remind yourself that this very moment is the only one you know you have for sure.- Oprah Winfrey.
Movie: Begin Again
Tv Series: The Kominsky Method
Favorite Food: Hummus!
Travel Destination: Costa Rica
Sports Team: skip (lol I don’t watch sports)
Photo Credit: Sela Shiloni
