Emily West is one of those talents that when you hear her sing, you are amazed that she is not more of a household name.  Her career kicked off with some moderate country chart success with “Rocks In Your Shoes” and a duet with Keith Urban called “Blue Sky.”  She’s also starred on TV as a red carpet co-host, as well appearances on shows such as Body of Proof, Are You Smarter Than a 5th Grader, and Celebrity Appearance before being reintroduced with a successful run on America’s Got Talent that appears to have started her move away from country music.

Fresh off her success on AGT, she’s getting ready to release some new music that we’re excited to hear…check out our interview with her below, then take a listen to her brand new single “Bitter” and let us know what you think!

1.  You had some success earlier in your career with “Rocks In Your Shoes” and a duet with Keith Urban titled “Blue Sky.”  How has your experience on America’s Got Talent changed things for you?

I’ve had quite the ride thus far! It’s been a beautiful ride. Going on America’s Got Talent gave me an opportunity to take a shift in the direction I was heading artistically. It primed me for a whole new start and let the world see a ‘reinvented Emily’. It opened a lot of doors and introduced me to fans that didn’t even know about my past-life in country music. 

2.  Who are some of your biggest influences?

I’m musically influenced by a plethora of artists. I cut my teeth on Patsy Cline. Something in her voice made me feel like she was telling the truth whether it was painful or happy, her voice made me believe her.  Judy Garland’s too. In 8th grade, My best friend Tara bought me a Barbra Streisand CD singing at Madison Square Garden. I had it memorized and cried every time. Goosebumps galore.

3.  What charity or cause do you support?

I support anything that helps dogs, and elephants. Human Rights. I’m close to Cyndi Lauper’s foundation True Colors as well.

4.  What’s been the biggest challenge you’ve encountered in your career?

Staying positive and not letting anyone afraid spook my horses creatively.

5.  What is the #1 goal you hope to achieve in your music career?

Winning a few Grammys 

6.  What is the #1 item on your Bucket List?

Flying in a hot air balloon over my hometown, Waterloo, Iowa.

7.  Outside of your music career, what is something that you are passionate about?

Family. Always family. 

8.  What has been the biggest “wow” moment of your career?

Having Howard Stern drool over me.

9.  What advice would you to an aspiring artist trying to make a career out of music?

Believe in everything you do otherwise you lose heart. Have a clear vision, and don’t let anyone spook your horses… And leave a mystery on Twitter if you can.