Photo by Steven Perilloux
tt: When did it become clear to you that you wanted to sing?
mf: I attended school in France as part of a program called School Year Abroad. Tennis was always my sport and I continued to play while I was there. I ended up playing the No. 1 spot on a regional woman's team in France and was going to start playing tournaments. But then I started singing for some extra cash on the street. I would connect with strangers through singing and their response was awesome. I loved the way it made me feel. I sang acapella with a hat at my feet. It was then that I knew what I had to do.
tt: What singers influence you and inspire you?
mf: Macy Gray, Amy Winehouse, Edith Piaf and Ella Fitzgerald
tt: Your sister Isabelle directed the video and did an incredible job! Who chose the wonderful quote that opens the video?
mf: That was Isabelle's choice and it was absolutely perfect. It totally encapsulated every emotion and thought behind the song.
tt: Are you looking forward to having your sister Isabelle direct another video?
mf: Well, I have to say I was quite impressed with my sister's work! She came up with the story and the concept. She was so into it and passionate about it. I think she truly enjoyed the whole experience. I can't say too much about the next one, but it will be totally different by leaps and bounds, than "Something Beautiful". We're very excited about it.
tt: In general, do you usually follow your heart?
mf: If something feels right in the moment, I will more than likely go with it. I believe no matter what the consequences are- it's worth it to experience that amazing moment. If heartache comes, it's all up to you how you choose to react and manage it. As a soul you'll be happier if you follow your heart, I believe.
ff: So do you find it's not about the outcome, it's more about the moment?
mf: Not everyone finds the love of their life. Sometimes a moment can be cosmically perfect and you're so taken aback by it. It may not turn out the way you might have thought it would, but it was beautiful. In the end you have to be able to move on, and acknowledge the time spent for what it was. I think living without regret is so important.
tt: Did you go into writing this song with a past relationship in mind?
mf: I didn't intend to write this song, it just came out. One day I tweeted "I'm going to write something beautiful today." It just flowed. I was ad-libbing the lyrics and I just ran with it. I mean subconsciously there were some parallels to a past relationship that was a fleeting good time. When I was done I thought it was the best thing I didn't mean to do.
tt: After this song have you found you're approaching your writing differently?
mf: For sure. This song really changed the way I write. It was very refreshing for me both professionally and personally.
tt: Has the making of the video turned out to be a pivotal point in your career?
mf: This song and video is a culmination of so much for me. The sound of my voice, my style and image have all evolved. I'm letting loose a kind of heightened version of myself. But always remaining transparent and real. I realize how much it means to me to be a good role model, to be sure not to project something that is false.
tt: What would you tell a young creative person who is confused about what they want to do?
mf: I would say, if money was not an issue what would you like to do? Because money is an issue that stops people from following their bliss.
ff: What are some personal guidelines that you remind yourself of to help you stay centered?
mf: I try to remind myself not to get too far ahead of myself into the future or have any expectations. I try to keep from being burdened by thoughts of what could be or what should've been. I just stay focused, keep my head down, work hard and be as dedicated as I can. It's important to stay present and in the now.
tt: Does the support of your fans help as well?
mf: It makes me feel so happy to touch the heart of so many kids. The greatest part is the fans watching the process of me growing and changing as an artist. And sticking by me all along the way, as I become who I am and what I will become.
The fans make the artist.
Madeline's Favorite Beauty Essentials
Skin: NARS tinted moisturizer, and when I'm feeling fancy Chanel Pro Lumière Cendré-Shell
Eyes: Two-Faced eyeliner in perfect black, Dior show mascara, and my staple - Naked 2 by Urban Decay (can't live without, but I have to constantly borrow it from my mom or sister ha!)
Lips: Dior Addict lip gloss (in all shades), Dior lip glow, and of course- Diorific Red Lipstick
Hair: Kiehl's Amino Acid Shampoo and Kiehl's Formula 133 Conditioner
Perfume: Givenchy Amarige
Now that we know her essentials, join Madeline Fuhrman's Bang-Nation!
Download "Something Beautiful" on iTunes
Download "Hangin' On" Freshface ReMix ft. Flash & Jukebox- Limited FREE Download available HERE