Interview with Austin Mahone: ‘Say You’re Just a Friend’
By: Markos Papadatos
Teen pop sensation Austin Mahone has been hailed by the Wall Street Journal as one of the “five leading contenders to be the next Bieber,” and rightfully so. He has become a true Internet sensation: He has gathered over 1.8 million fans on Facebook and 1.5 million followers on Twitter and his YouTube channel has exceeded over 90 million views and consists of approximately 500,000 subscribers. Austin Mahone took some time from his busy schedule on Jan. 3, 2013, to chat via telephone with Markos Papadatos about his new music, upcoming tour with Taylor Swift and his latest radio single “Say You’re Just a Friend.”
The music video for his catchy and smooth single “Say Somethin'” has accumulated over 8 million views, proving that he is a true force to be reckoned with in the pop scene. “That feels amazing to know that I’ve come such a long way. I am so blessed to have so many amazing fans around me that have helped me reach my dreams,” he said.
Mahone has been privileged enough to meet Bieber and noted that The Biebs is indeed a “cool dude and very talented.” Ever since 2010, he followed into The Biebs’ footsteps and made homemade videos of himself signing pop covers on YouTube and all of his hard work has paid off. “It feels good to know that I am on the map like that. I am so flattered to think that people think that I am going to be the next Justin Bieber, but I would like to do my own thing. I am trying my best to stand out.”
Growing up, the Texas native was influenced by many artists across multiple genres of music, including country crooner George Strait, whom he dubs as an “awesome” entertainer.
Most recently, the 16-year old singer-songwriter released his highly-anticipated new single “Say You’re Just a Friend,” via his label, Chase Records, which features Flo Rida on rap vocals and it is available on iTunes. “I was a huge fan of Flo Rida and I thought it would be cool to get him on my track. I thought it turned out pretty good. He’s a super nice guy, talented and very humble. I was very blessed to be able to work with him,” he said.
Mahone is fully devoted to his craft and he has been doing radio shows and television appearances nationwide to promote his musical work, as well as to please his dedicated fans, which are affectionately known as “Mahomies.” He revealed that he has a new album that is slated to come out in either late March or April. “Thank you to my fans for giving me your love and support and I would not be here without you. I will always be there for you,” he said graciously.
He will also serve as an opening act for global country-pop phenom Taylor Swift on select dates of her “Red” tour, which will commence on May 4 in Detroit, Michigan. “It’s going to be my first tour ever and I am super excited about it. I think it’s going to be a good time and I really cannot wait,” he said.
Speaking of Swift, Mahone listed her as his dream female duet choice, as well as Mariah Carey. “I am a huge fan of Taylor Swift since he has started out and Mariah is an amazing vocalist and I love her music,” he said.
Even in his spare time, Mahone enjoys staying active and his hobbies include swimming, going to the beach, spending time with friends and making music.
To learn more about Austin Mahone, visit his official website https://www.austinmahone.com/.
Photo Credit: PMK BNC
