Aria Brooks is a 14-year-old singer and songwriter, not to mention, actress. She has appeared in a few shows in addition to her lead role in Nickelodeon’s “All That” reboot. She has also released three singles along with a recent one titled “Twinnin’” featuring AteloMidas. Her social media presence is a notable one with over 13,000 followers on both Instagram and TikTok and verification on both accounts. She uses her platforms to raise awareness on matters that she is passionate about.
Creative Producer: Erini Sadek @erinisadek
Stylist: Kristiana Cox @hersheys_kris
At what age did you land your first acting role, and could you recall the details of the role. How thrilled you were to get that opportunity?
When I was much younger and just starting out, I did a lot of extra work and independent projects. My first big job was when I booked Harriet in 2018. I remember it being a very hard week leading up to the booking. It felt so amazing when I got the call from my agent. Every part of that opportunity was educational and thrilling.
At what point did you realize that you wanted to pursue a career in singing alongside your acting?
I actually started with music before acting. I’ve always been into music because my parents are music teachers. At around six years old, I got into musical theater. That’s when I wanted to try out acting. When I was around ten, I started pursing on camera work.
What inspired you to sing about lack of originality in your latest single “twinnin’”?
My inspiration came from seeing people around me and around my age that would do certain things just for fame or money. People were making music even if singing wasn’t something they aspired to do. People will post or engage in things just because it makes them successful. I would never want to do anything I am not comfortable with just for success, and I don’t think others should either.
Do you plan on releasing an album anytime soon?
I’ve actually had an album ready for quite a while now. My team and I decided to split the album in half and turn it into two EP’s. My debut EP, “castles pt 1” is out now. On it, I talk about mental health, gaining confidence, and navigating the “castles in the air” I created in my life.
You also star in the reboot of Nickelodeon’s iconic show, “All That”, how does it feel being part of something so memorable and special?
I feel so blessed to be a part of something so special. That was such a learning experience for me. It was my first series regular role, and I am glad that I got the opportunity to be a part of it.
What is your goal for your career in the next 5 years?
I would like to release a lot more music in the next five years. I will produce my own films and TV shows. I also want to be a working actress and continue to inspire people with my art.
You guest-starred on Netflix’s “Dolly Parton’s Heartstrings”, what was your overall experience of working on the show both on and off set?
My experience on Heartstrings was amazing. Everyone was super nice and I loved getting to know the cast. They were all amazing scene partners and it made the scenes more authentic.
You have a significant presence on Instagram and TikTok with a following over 13,000 followers on both apps, how do you keep your audience entertained?
I think people focus too much on trying to entertain their audience. Your followers continue to follow you for who you are. I just post what I feel represents me in the way I want. I post things I am interested in. It is important for me to feel comfortable with what I share with my followers.
Both your Instagram and TikTok accounts are verified, could you describe your reaction when you realized you had been given the ‘oh so desired’ “blue ticks”?
When it happened, my mom texted me a picture of my Instagram page. At first I didn’t know what she was sending a picture of. I finally noticed the blue check and I freaked out. I immediately told my dad and a few of my friends. I couldn’t fully believe it. I was pacing and texting people because I could not sit still. I am still so grateful for it.
How do you come up with content for your TikTok videos and how much fun do you have making them?
I have been very focused on my music and I am currently filming a project, so I haven’t been able to be on TikTok as much as I used to. Before, I would just scroll through TikTok a lot (for hours) and make them based on trends I liked or random inspiration.
What hobbies do you enjoy engaging in when you are not working or creating social media content?
I love writing for fun. Whether it is writing songs or scripts, I love creating…even in my free time. I also like watching Netflix and YouTube.
You are an activist who constantly raises awareness on issues that matter to you, what made you start lending your voice to different causes?
It has always been important to me to speak out about important issues. The larger my platform gets, the more I will speak out about it. I want to utilize my platform for positive reasons. The best thing we can do to make change is raise awareness and educate each other. I want to continue to do that through social media and even through my art.
