Rising influencer Hillary Lewis is capturing audiences with her charisma, talent, and a powerful voice that shines both in music and acting. Raised in the spotlight of the entertainment industry, Hillary began her career in “The Kids Table,” where she starred alongside big names like comedian Francisco Ramos and Emmy nominees Chiara and Bianca D’Ambrosio. In 2023, she released her debut single, “Love Spell,” an angsty pop-rock track reminiscent of artists like Olivia Rodrigo and Beach Bunny.
How would you describe the evolution of your career from the beginning until now, especially considering your experiences on “The Kids Table” and the release of your single “Love Spell”?
I’ve definitely grown a lot since being on The Kids Table. I was such a child back then! I think I was around 14! My artistic approach has changed, although I’ve definitely kept my comedic side! I’ve gained insight to a lot of important things that one needs to know to be in this industry and I’ve gotten a thicker skin which is so important. You gotta be strong if you want to pursue a career in the arts! Releasing Love Spell was my first time actually putting myself and my emotions out there to my audience. When you’re acting, you’re playing a different character, but when it comes to music and writing, that’s all you! I pour my heart and soul into my music. I was so nervous at first, but now I’m so happy that I’m able to put my music out there. I hope others will be able to relate, or at least get enjoyment out of my songs!
What inspired the creation of “Love Spell” and how do you think it differs from other releases in the pop-rock genre?
Love Spell was the first single I released. I was about a year and a half out of a really tough breakup and I had a random thought.. “what if I did a love spell?” Of course I didn’t do it, but it was one of those in the heat moments where something just pops in your head. It was super close to Halloween which is one of my favorite holidays. I sat down with my writing partner and we brainstormed. Love Spell is different than other releases in the pop-rock genre because of the nature of the song, the lyrics, the story behind it.. what it’s about. I wanted to write a song that was powerful and meaningful and portrays emotions well, and that’s exactly what Love Spell did.
You worked with Stephen Glickman and the D’Ambrosio sisters on “The Kids Table.” How did these collaborations influence your style and artistic approach?
Both Stephen and the D’Ambrosio sisters are such talented individuals. It was an absolute pleasure getting to work along side them while filming “The Kids Table”. They taught me the importance of hard work and perseverance when it comes to pursuing a career in the entertainment industry, as well as the importance to do it all. Not just acting, but writing and directing as well!
What was the process of transitioning from actress and comedian to singer and songwriter like? What challenges did you face and how did you overcome them?
The process of transitioning from being an actress and comedian to a singer and songwriter was fairly easy but of course like anything came with its challenges. Naturally I’m a very creative person, so when it comes to writing material or coming up with material on the spot like stand up comedy, the same kind of energy transfers into songwriting and singing. I think I struggled the most with confidence. I have a hard time making decisions when it comes to artistic choices, and with song writing you gotta just choose a direction and go with it!
Do you have any specific influences in your music that you’d like to highlight? Are there artists or bands that have shaped your sound?
Style wise, Avril Lavigne, Kesha and Miley Cyrus for sure! Lyric Wise, Taylor Swift. And personally, I’m a huge oldies fan. I love ABBA and Elton John!
What do you find most rewarding about creating and performing music compared to acting?
When it comes to music, definitely being able to inspire others and help others explore their emotions in ways that can’t be put into exact words. I know for me, when I’m going through something, all I wanna do is listen to a song that I can relate to, and I want others to be able to think the same when it comes to my music!
How do you see your presence on social media contributing to your career as an influencer and artist? Do you have any specific strategies for engaging with your followers?
Just being myself and really showing my everyday life! My top strategy is putting out what others enjoy seeing. Many people enjoy content they can relate to, that’s my top strategy for sure. If others can relate to you, you’ve already got a platform right there!
What are your future plans for music and acting? Do you have any exciting projects or collaborations that you can share with your fans?
I have two new singles coming out in the next few months which I’m so excited about! I’ve been playing around with my music style, so I’m eager to see what my listeners think. I actually took a bit of a break from acting, but I’m back at it now! So going on a bunch of auditions and more auditions.
Follow Hillary Lewis on Instagram