We met up with Maddie Poppe at the Wiltern Theater to fit in a quick shoot and interview between sounds check and show time. Maddie is known for her success winning season 16 of American Idol. She just released her first major album Whirlwind with Hollywood records. Maddie is such a sweet and authentic individual full of talent and love for what she does. Get to know her better in the interview below + exclusive photos of Maddie pre-show.

Who are you?

Maddie Poppe, singer/songwriter.

Why music?

Music has always been a huge part of my life. Growing up, my dad was in several bands and often had band practice/recording sessions at our house with his band mates. I was always around this and often liked to listen in on what they were doing. Shortly after, I decided to start singing and playing guitar, my dad has always had a huge impact on my music career. It’s something that I feel has always been a part of me and I think no matter what happens with my career, it’s something I won’t ever give up on.

What does authenticity mean to you?

I think it’s so important to stay true to yourself. I’ve learned pretty quickly that it’s very easy in this industry to get caught up in what you think will please other people, but at the end of the day, you have to live out your decisions, so it’s important to always do what makes you happiest.

Favorite lyric of your own?

My favorite lyric of my own would be the line “We we’re just so young, we should’ve known, that one day we’d hate our bodies and we’d orbit around buttons on a phone”, from my song ‘Don’t Ever Let Your Children Grow Up’.

Best and hardest part of touring?

The best part of touring is plain and simple, performing. Something about hitting the stage every night and doing what you absolutely love makes you forget all your troubles and worries, you’re just living in the moment and not thinking about any negativity in your life in that moment whatsoever. The worst part of touring would be being away from both my family and my boyfriend. I’ve gotten used to the reality of it, but it never gets easier saying goodbye to them. There’s so many moments I wish we could share together, so it really sucks not getting to share these amazing, life-changing memories with anyone, and especially the people I love the most.

Best and hardest part of your American Idol journey?

The best part of the journey was creating the friendships and relationships I had made on the show, some that will last a lifetime. By far, it’d have to be meeting Caleb and pursuing a relationship with him. Looking back on when we were just friends, and thanking God that it blossomed into the best relationship of my life. The hardest part of the journey were the goodbyes. Whether that be to the friends I’d made, the people I surrounded myself with daily and grew to be so comfortable around, or simply the stage, knowing it was the last time I’d sing on the stage for votes, knowing my time on the show was coming to a close. Those moments were very sentimental to me.

Music idol?

Several! Ingrid Michaelson, Sara Bareilles, Rachael Yamagata, Anna Nalick and Kelly Clarkson!!

Favorite spot show meal?

Anything super unhealthy, most likely carbs, sugar, lemonade, cookies...the usual.

What’s next?

After finishing the Ingrid tour, I will most likely get back into the studio to write and record for my next album!

Talent: Maddie Poppe @maddiepoppe

Photo: Weslee Kate @wesleekatecreative