Check out our interview with musical prodigy and multi-talented young actress Madison Taylor Baez. Just under 10 years old and already a breakout star, Baez will be making her series regular television debut as “Young Selena,” alongside Christian Serratos (“The Walking Dead”) in the upcoming Netflix original, “Selena: The Series” slated for summer 2020.
Madison has been making waves since she began singing the national anthem for the LA Lakers at just 8 years old. Since then, she has performed for the LA Dodgers, LA Lakers, LA Rams and the LA Galaxy.
Follow Madison at @madisonbaezmusic
Hi Madison, please tell us a little about you.
Hi! Thank you for having me! My name is Madison Taylor Baez and I am a singer, also known as “Anthem Girl” and I am also an actress who will be starring as Young Selena in Netflix’s “Selena: The Series.”
Describe yourself in 3 words.
Fun, Kind, & Fearless.
Who is your role model?
My Dad battled stage 4 Colon Cancer for 6 years and he still managed to be there for me in everything I do.
How did you get started in acting?
I started acting by doing commercials at 7 years old. I have done 11 national commercials and from there, I got roles in a short film and music videos. It was actually a very natural progression for me as singing is acting. As a singer and like an actor, you have to be able to give different emotions and passion depending on the type of song I’m singing and for acting in a character, it’s the same.
How has this changed your life?
It has enabled me to get this amazing opportunity to play the role of Young Selena that will showcase both my acting and singing. It also gives me a platform to inspire young kids all over the world and I couldn’t be more excited and grateful.
What is the best and worst part of being an actress?
The best part is playing different characters, being on set, wardrobe, interacting with other cast members and going on location. The worst is waiting long hours in my trailer to be called to set and the real early and late call times.
Tell us about your work on Netflix’s original “Selena: The Series?”
I play the fun loving Young Selena. Abraham (Selena’s father) has this idea to a start a family band with Young Selena as the lead singer. I, as young Selena, recreate many of the moments in her life as she learns to sing and wanting to make her father proud. The series also shows many struggles the family had to endure to achieve the father’s dream of having Selena achieve worldwide success.
How was your experience playing the role of Young Selena?
It was amazing! Being able to relive the moments in Selena’s life was surreal. So many of the experiences she had were so much like my own. From my dad teaching me singing, music, learning to sing in Spanish, to all the practice sessions and performing in public.
What other projects have you been a part of?
I recently co-starred in the film “The Tooth Racket”. It’s a fun comedy where I play a conniving little girl who has been conning the Tooth Fairy out of money. It’s been getting great reviews. Also, I have appeared in some music videos.
What is the most rewarding part of your work?
The most rewarding is that I get to inspire kids and adults with both my singing and acting, as well as representing both the Latin and Filipino communities. Also, donating my time and singing at many charities is an amazing feeling.
What kind of roles do you like or would like to play and why?
I would love to play a super hero as I’m a big fan of all the Marvel super hero movies. I also would love to do more comedy.
Now tell us about singing the national anthem for the LA Lakers, Dodgers, LA Rams and LA Galaxy?
Well, it’s awesome to be able to sing the greatest song ever, especially for my country, my favorite teams and for charities. Hearing 50,000 fans chanting “Anthem Girl” over and over after I sing is an incredible feeling. I feel so honored to be attached to the “Star Spangled Banner.”
That’s amazing. Do you ever get nervous?
Oh every single time, right up to when I get the microphone in my hand. Once it’s in my hand, all the nerves go away and I say to myself, “Ok Maddie, Let’s Do This’ lol!
What is your favorite healthy food?
Teriyaki Chicken and rice. That is actually my favorite dish that I could eat every day. Without the veggies of course lol!
And your favorite cheat food?
Oh I’m a steak girl!! Big Ribeye with lots of butter on it and fries. Sooo yummy! And pizza, of course!
How would you explain your fashion style?
Hmm? I’m a Tom Boy that likes to just throw on a pair of jeans, a T-shirt on and baseball cap backwards. I also love to pair my sneakers with my dresses.
How would your best friend describe you?
Funny, sweet and kind. I hope lol!
What’s next for Madison Taylor Baez in 2020?
More Anthem and singing appearances and I have some acting projects in the works I can hopefully share soon. Hopefully put out an Album as well.
What is your own definition of happiness?
Being with and having the support of my family and friends, giving back to others, and staying humble.
What is a normal day in your life?
I attend school, come home, and do homework. I then play my piano and guitar, maybe a little singing, then I go outside and play with my friends.
What is your idea of a perfect Sunday?
Going to the movies with my friends, eating some burgers and getting a big brownie fudge sundae.
If you could meet someone living or dead, who would it be and why?
I would love to meet Bruno Mars because he is my favorite singer and he plays multiple instruments like me and he likes to have fun on stage like me.
Best advice ever given?
From my dad!! “Own the Stage And You Will Win The Crowd”. “Staying Humble is more Important than Fame”.
Do you support any charities?
Yes that is very important to me. Any and all, I always have and will continue to sing and donate my time to charities. I’m very blessed to have opportunities in my life and it’s only right I give back to others less fortunate.
Name 3 things you can’t live without.
My doggies, family and friends.
Where do you see yourself and your career 5 years from now?
I love school so I see myself starting high school and continuing to grow from all my experiences. Also, I see myself having some great roles on the big screen, continue in television, and hopefully go on tour singing.
Favorite song? Why?
Perm By Bruno Mars because it’s catchy. I love the rhythm and I love to perform it.
What music do you like?
Pop, Motown, old school and classic rock.
What do you think of Social Media?
It’s fun to share posts and my music. My parents handle my social media.
Where we can follow you?
IG: @madisonbaezmusic
Twitter: @MadisonBaez10
FB: madisonbaezmusic
Favorite:
Quote: A Goal Without A Plan Is A Wish
Singer/Artist: Bruno Mars
Movie: Avengers: Endgame
Travel Destination: Australia
Sports Team: LA Dodgers
TV Show: Henry Danger
Book: Harry Potter Series
Photo Credit: Tamara Tihanyi
