As soon as I saw Brooke Simpson’s blind audition for Season 13 of The Voice, I knew she would be in the competition until the end. After watching her heartwarming video package about her love for her Native American heritage, I watched as she belted out Demi Lovato’s “Stone Cold” with passion and an eagerness to get a chair to turn. And boy, was she successful. Four chair turns later and after making coach Miley Cyrus a forever-devotee, Simpson ultimately landed in third place in the finale. Although she didn’t claim the top title, she certainly made her impact on the show with stunning vocals that will go down as one of the best in the show’s history. I was honored to be able to interview Simpson about her experience on The Voice, her personal style, and those future plans of hers that you’ve been longing to hear about (new music?!)...

How did you come to audition for The Voice?

I actually auditioned for The Voice five years ago in Atlanta. I got a callback but didn’t get past that round. I didn’t audition again until the producers called me back four years later! They emailed an email I don’t use anymore and called a number that isn’t mine anymore until they finally got in touch with me. It was definitely destiny.

Which singers inspire you?

Growing up, my biggest influences were Britney Spears, Christina Aguilera, the Spice Girls, and Cher. I loved Christina mainly for her voice. As for the Spice Girls, Britney, and Cher, I think I was mainly attracted to their rebellious personalities and freedom. But regardless, they were constantly on repeat. Now, I would say Beyonce, Ed Sheeran and Julia Michaels inspire me. And I’m not gonna lie--I’m still pretty obsessed with early 2000’s Britney.

How did your coach, Miley Cyrus, influence your performance and style?

Working with her was amazing. She always pushed me to follow my gut because she thought I had good instincts. The only place we would really have conflict was clothing...lol. She was very hands-on in every area, including what I would wear. For the most part, I agreed with her and followed her direction, but it was very important to stay true to who I am.

How is your heritage a factor in your style?

Whether it’s a clothing item or an accessory, I love incorporating handmade items by members of my tribe or other tribes. Shedding a light on where I come from and my culture is very important to me.

Did your style evolve while you were on the show?

It definitely evolved. Before ever going on the show, I had never worn high heels and sworn that I would never perform in them. But low and behold, I did! I also wore more “girly” things than I thought I would.

What was your favorite look that you wore on the show?

My Knockout look was my fave! It was very me. (She stunned in a blue and yellow checkerboard jumpsuit paired with a leather jacket with an embroidered flower on it).

When it comes to shopping, where are some of your top places to buy your clothes? Do you have any fave designers?

I shop a lot at Zara, Urban Outfitters, Forever 21, and Topshop. My favorite designer is Balenciaga; I would love to shop there, although my bank account disagrees.

Who are your style icons?

Rihanna, Halsey, Miley Cyrus (mainly in her Bangerz era), and SZA.

Did your hair and makeup stay cohesive while you were on The Voice or did you experiment?

For the most part, I think it was pretty consistent. But makeup is the one area I wish I experimented with more.

What are your future plans?

Yes, tons of them. Right now, I’m just trying to book shows left and right, but there is also the possibility of new music in the works. And other fun things!

This or That:

A ballad or an upbeat song? My mood or emotions heavily affect this answer but as of right now, upbeat.

High heels or sneakers? Sneakersssssss!

Lipstick or lip gloss? Like the first question, my mood effects this answer but as of right now, lip gloss.

Sephora or Ulta Beauty? I guess Sephora…but can drug store be an option? Haha.

New York or Los Angeles? I love both, but I have to go with LA.

Follow Brooke on Social Media:

Instagram: @brookesimpsonofficial

Twitter: @brookesimpson

Snapchat: @brookesimpson

YouTube: Brooke Simpson

Website: http://brookesimpsonofficial.com