“Goodbye” offers upbeat music paired with somber lyrics, making for a catchy tune – the line ‘you know my heart is the one that I follow’ immediately recalled the adage ‘follow your heart but take your brain with you.’ It reminds me that sometimes, despite how painful it may be, saying goodbye is the best possible thing for your well-being. What was the inspiration for this song, and what does it mean to you?
Hannah Grace: "Goodbye" was inspired just by my experiences over the last few years of being in relationships and friendships where you just end up growing apart from each other. Whether it's jealousy or you just mature more, sometimes it's just best if you move on even though you still care for the other person.
What are some of your most memorable moments from filming the video for “Goodbye”?
Hannah Grace: For sure, the spray painting scene and the smashing the guitar scene. The spray painting "Goodbye" in graffiti on the wall was really cool as I got to kick over the easel and paint on the wall, which was very 'rebel' for me :) Then the smashing of the guitar scene was an intense scene just because you only get one take for filming it...if the camera missed it, the guitar is gone!
I see that you were on the hit show Dance Moms. How would you describe that experience, and did it help prepare you for the challenges of undertaking this journey as a musical artist?
Hannah Grace: Being on Dance Moms was a very launching point for me and my career. I am very thankful and grateful for all of the opportunities that it has brought me. I got to build a loyal fan base, become used to working in front of cameras, and work with some amazing people. I got to go on tour and be a backup dancer for JoJo Siwa, travel to LA, and visit the UK.
If you had to choose between dance and singing, which would win, and why?
Hannah Grace: I don't know if I could really choose one over the other. I have been dancing since I could walk as I grew up at the dance studio my mother owns, but it was at the dance studio that I was exposed to all kinds of music and fell in love with singing. I love that you can express your feelings and emotions through both dance and singing and have others feel those emotions. My plan is to dance as long as I can because the career of a dancer is physically limited, but I always want to sing; if I am fortunate enough to go on tour one day, I will incorporate both into my shows!
Aside from your own, what are your three favorite songs to sing?
Hannah Grace: There are so many...I would say anything by Billie Eilish, Raindrops by Ariana Grande, and any of Taylor Swift's early music.
What’s the best advice you’ve ever received, either in life, industry-related, or both?
Hannah Grace: Putting yourself and your art out there for others to judge is not an easy thing to do; not everyone will like your work or you (even though they don't know you). Don't take things or criticism too personally; no one knows you like you and your family, and lastly, no matter what, always be kind.
Interviewed By Vanessa Siebrass
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