Alina Artts is a name you’re about to get familiar with. As one of Russia’s hottest pop stars, Alina Artts has dominated the charts, raked in millions of views on YouTube, graced the cover of Russia’s biggest magazines including FHM and Maxim, and most recently performed for millions at the 2014 Olympic Games in Sochi.
Now her single ‘High Enough,’ which encompasses an electro-dance spin on the Marvin Gaye classic ‘Ain’t No Mountain High Enough’has hit our shores so Pop Scoop! wanted to find out a little more about this pop-dance vixen.
Hi Alina, music wasn’t how you started your career, what made you make the jump from TV and modeling? Are you still involved in TV and modeling?
Not so much modelling, but still do some TV on Europa Plus TV. It’s a very popular music channel in Russia.
Can you define your musical style?
Uplifting, Fun, Electro-Pop, Vibrant, Happy, Inspirational.
It’s been a busy year few years for you with your contribution at 2014 Olympic Games in Sochi and the release of ‘High Enough’ in the USA. What has been the high point?
When I performed for the Olympics in Olympic park on Valentines Day for 20,000 people in front of the stage.
‘High Enough’ has been well received over in the USA, did you expect it to do so well out there?. It must give you encouragement about the March 16th release in the UK.
I am very optimistic, but I know how hard it is right now to break through.
What was the first spark that got you going musically?
When I was 5. It was for a big celebration honouring my mother for her work in the medical field and I sang a song for her at this event. Although it was a simple song, I remember enjoying the feeling of learning, rehearsing and performing and knowing I wanted to do that when I grew up.
Which music artists/acts are you inspired by?
Being a child, there was one and only singing deity for me – and that was Whitney Houston. I also loved listening to Queen and then when I got a little older it was Beyonce which continues to be my inspiration today. Sam Smith is someone currently I’m very impressed with.
How do you start writing a song? Does a tune, a harmony, a mood or lyrics come first?
First the idea of the song ( the message ) then the melody and then the lyrics.
Which music artist’s/act’s career path would you ideally want as a model for your own?
Beyonce.
If you could collaborate with any contemporary music artist/act/producer, who would you pick?
Sam Smith.
What kind of song would you see yourself making?
A love duet.
What are your thoughts about the importance of social media for today’s music biz (YouTube, SoundCloud, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram)?
I think it is a very important tool that helps fans connect with performers and I enjoy using it, but it does not replace human contact. Performing live and meeting my fans is most important.
How do you like to connect with your fans?
Instagram. I love taking photos and sharing them with my fans. An photo is easier to communicate with on a global scale since language can sometimes be difficult.
What does performing live mean to you? Do you prefer live audiences or studio work?
Both have their advantages. But I think I love performing live best, because I am motivated and drawn in by the energy of the crowd and the passion from the fans.
POP SCOOP! QUICK-FIRE BIOGRAPHICAL TRIVIA QUESTIONS
What’s your favourite colour?
Red
And your favourite animal?
Pantera
Do you support a team or sports star?
I like football, but do not have a favourite team.
What’s your favourite food or meal?
Berries.
Do you usually eat-out, take-out, or cook yourself?
Depends if I am on tour or travelling. I love to cook and when all my relatives come to my home during holidays, I love to cook for everyone. Traditional Russian Hot soups and salads. I also like cooking traditional Italian seafood risotto or spaghetti with Meatballs.
Favourite film of all time?
The Marrying Man, Devil wears Prada, Gone with the Wind.
First album you ever bought?
Whitney Houston on cassette when I was 10 years old.
Do you still listen to it?
Yes I do, but not the cassette :)
What song do you have on constant repeat at the moment?
‘I Was Here’ by Beyonce.
What’s the last book you finished? What are you reading at the moment?
The Alchemist, by Paulo Coelho
What’s the last gig/concert/or festival you went to, which you didn’t perform at?
Beyonce in LA.
Coffee or tea?
Soul likes tea, but my brain needs coffee (which is why I drink both).
X-Factor or The Voice?
The Voice.
Your favourite item of clothing right now?
I don’t have just one. It depends on my mood. I love my shoes. If I have meetings, I Love my high heels, but when casual, I love to wear sneakers.
Which celebrity, if you met them in person, would you turn into a total, embarrassing fangirl about?
Usher
What was the first poster you put on your wall as a young teen?
Kim Basinger.
What’s your essential, can’t-live-without gadget?
Iphone.
Do you have a pet?
I have a cat that is 18 years old.
What qualities do you value most in a man or a woman? Are they different?
Honesty, confidence, Passion – yes the same.
What’s your favourite journey?
My favourite place to go on vacation, the Maldives.
Who is your ultimate hero?
My father.
And finally… what is your life motto or favourite saying?
You must believe in your dreams so they can come true.
