Check out our interview with Colombian American Pop Singer and Songwriter Jackie Castro who just released today her hit single “Best of Me” produced by Ruslan Odnoralov (Known for “Golf On TV” for Lenon Stella & JP Saxe) & Giulio Cercato and written by herself, Lilian Caputo (Aka Lita), Giulio Cercato.
Jackie is the younger sister of former American Idol season 7 finalist and Atlantic Records recording artist Jason Castro and singer-songwriter and former Idol contestant of both season 8 and season 9, Michael Castro.
Follow Jackie @TheJackieCastro
Hi Jackie, please tell us a little about you?
I’m a pop singer/songwriter in Nashville, TN! I’ve been singing and writing songs for as long as I can remember. I love to write songs that are super honest and true to my story.
Describe yourself in 3 words?
Dreamer, feeler, story-teller
We’re sure you have been asked this million times but how did you get in the industry?
My brother was a finalist on American Idol when I was 12 years old. That really opened the door for a ton of opportunities and I got to learn the insides of the industry at a young age. When I was in college I signed my first record deal in Nashville and have been working at it professionally since then!
Describe your sound in 3 words?
Whimsy, pop, emotional
Who influenced you and why did you choose to make music?
Taylor Swift was a huge inspiration. I was a fan since “Tim McGraw” and I remember seeing her and thinking, that’s what I want to do. I learned how to play guitar to all of her songs and she’s a huge influence on my songwriting! I choose to make music because it’s always just felt like what I’m meant to be doing.
Do you ever get nervous?
I do! I definitely get butterflies and nerves before a show, but once I’m on stage it all goes away and I feel like I’m where I’m supposed to be. It’s a magical feeling.
Tell us about your new single “Best of Me?”
“Best of Me” is a song I wrote for my man. It’s really a snapshot into the special moments of our relationship where he’s made me feel so supported, encouraged, and loved. It’s about how when I’m at my worst and can’t see the good in me, he always sees the best of me and reminds me to believe in myself.
Which venue is still on your bucket list?
I would loveeeee to perform at the Grammys someday! Definitely at the top of my bucket list.
What is your favorite part about writing songs?
My favorite part is the way it helps me connect with my fans. I love sharing the stories behind my songs and hearing how they can relate and what they’ve gone through. Music has always made me feel more connected to people.
What’s next for Jackie Castro in 2021?
MY DEBUT ALBUM! I am beyond excited that it’s finally coming out this June. 🙂
What is your favorite song? And why?
I don’t know if I can pick an all time favorite, but the first song that comes to mind is “Linger” by The Cranberries. It’s the song I go to if I’m feeling weird or sad, something about it just feels like a hug and it makes me really happy. I listen to it on repeat all the time!
Any loves other than music?
I love being in nature – hiking, camping, everything! I love traveling and getting to know new cultures. And I sometimes bake semi-professional cakes. 🙂
Best advice ever given?
You’re never stuck. If you don’t like where you’re at in life, change it.
Idea of a perfect Sunday?
A sunny day by the pool, a Topo Chico in my hand, listening to good music and not worrying about a thing.
What is you favorite song to belt out in the car/for karaoke?
Unfaithful by Rihanna is a specialty of mine.
What is your favorite healthy food?
I love a good veggie soup.
And your favorite cheat food?
Anything with chocolate in it!!
What do you think of Social Media?
I think it’s a really great tool as an artist to get my music out there and to connect with my fans, but I think you have to be good about balancing it and not getting consumed by it. It’s so easy to start comparing yourself and that can get really unhealthy really fast.
Where we can follow you?
@TheJackieCastro on all socials 🙂