Q & HOLIDAYS: ALLY BROOKE

This year has been turbulent to say the least, but Ally Brooke has certainly made the most of it. Besides keeping her fans fed with new singles all year, Brooke wrote and released her first memoir, “Finding Your Harmony”, back in October and even landed her first acting role as Sofia in the upcoming film “High Expectations”, which is currently in production. On top of all of that, she also found the time to craft her first-ever original Christmas song, “Baby I’m Coming Home,” a festive bop about celebrating the holidays with loved ones after spending a long time apart — a sentiment that’s especially relatable this particular holiday season.

In the midst of preparing for an audition, Ally Brooke recently sat down with LADYGUNN from her home in Los Angeles for a Q & Holidays chat about “Baby I’m Coming Home,” her jam-packed year, favorite holiday traditions, and more. Check out the conversation below!

How are you, genuinely? 

I’m good. Trying to be as positive as I can during these times. I had a taping in my hometown last week, and I was so happy to see my family – definitely filled me up.

How was your Thanksgiving? 

It was great! You might’ve seen me on the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade on the Blue’s Clues float with Nickelodeon. It was so much fun and so cute. Definitely a highlight.

2020 has felt like a never-ending whirlwind of chaos, but you’ve still managed to accomplish so much in your career. What are you most proud of from this year? 

I am thankful for all that I’ve been able to accomplish, that’s for sure. Being able to “work” during this time and still do what I love is such a huge blessing. Filming my first movie, “High Expectations,” is definitely something I am extremely proud of. Releasing my first book and winning my first Emmy are also what I am most proud of.

Your memoir “Finding Your Harmony” came out back in October. Now that you’ve had some time to reflect on it, how do you feel about having your stories out in the world? 

It is amazing to have my story out in the world. I’ve been through a lot, learned a lot of lessons in my short life, and have experienced so much. Sharing my heart as an author is a milestone for me and for my family. Being able to touch or impact people’s lives through my book has been the biggest gift. 

You’re set to make your acting debut next year as Sofia in “High Expectations,“ which we are so excited about. What can you share about your work on the film so far?

I play a strong female character with a lot of depth and heart. She is in charge of her own life, has such a great head on her shoulders, and is very grounded. She shines a special light in her own way. I was honored to play her, and it was one of the biggest blessings in my life. 

We LOVE your new Christmas single “Baby I’m Coming Home.” How did the track come together?

I’m so happy that so many people love it! It’s always been a dream to have my very own original Christmas song, and now that I do, it’s one of the best feelings. I love the message of the song about surprising your loved ones by coming home for Christmas. It is super sweet, joyous, and heartfelt. That’s the feeling of Christmas and I’m so glad the writers and I could capture it in a song. I recorded it during the summer and couldn’t wait to release it!

Were you inspired by any specific holiday music as you created it?

I was most inspired by my family when I recorded it. I thought of them as I sang the words of the song. I pictured myself coming home for Christmas and that brought me so much joy.

What songs are on your holiday playlist this year?

“All I Want for Christmas is You” of course! I love the traditional songs, as well as a lot of the newer ones. “The Christmas Song” by Nat King Cole, “Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas” by Frank Sinatra, “Feliz Navidad” by Jose Feliciano, “Underneath the Tree” by Kelly Clarkson. I love Carrie Underwood’s new Christmas album! It’s incredible. I actually made a Christmas Playlist on Spotify that you can listen to!

This Christmas is definitely a weird one. How are you planning to celebrate?

I’m gonna be home back in San Antonio and stay there for a while. I can’t wait to be back home.

Does your family have any holiday traditions? What’s your favorite?

We love to eat tamales during the season. Those are my favorite. I could eat a dozen by myself. We also love to bake together, my dad makes his famous chile con queso dip, and we all watch Christmas movies together.

What else is on the menu for your family’s Christmas dinner?

Tamales, ham, mac and cheese, corn, chile con queso dip, rolls, and rice and beans!

…and for dessert?

Pies and lots and lots of Christmas cookies!

Finally, what do you most look forward to in 2021?

Touring. I can’t wait to tour again. That is my wish. I also can’t wait for my film, “High Expectations”. I definitely have “high expectations” for 2021 😉

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story / Jack Irvin

photo / Courtesy of JConnelly