Josh Levi

Hailing from Houston, Texas, Josh Levi is all set for a stellar career. The X Factor finalist moved to Los Angeles just three months before auditioning for the show to pursue a music career. It was a decision that would irrevocably change his life.

Mentored by Paulina Rubio, Levi finished in 7th place and garnered outstanding support along the way.

Levi, 15, has been compared to the likes of Bruno Mars and the late Michael Jackson. An impressive comparison given his age.

Music News recently caught up with him to discuss his journey to date, and never taking "No" for an answer.

Music News - When did you realize you wanted to pursue a career in music?

I recorded my first original song when I was about 9. Even at 9 I remember enjoying the organic process of creating and recording a song in the studio. But it wasn't until a year or so later that I actually started performing and opening up small events around Houston. It was the performances that I really fell in love with. The idea of creating something for people and having the ability to make them happy and have fun in that moment.....I felt the love from the audience in response to my performance...I worked hard and gave them something and they gave me something much greater back....it was then that I decided that I wanted to do this on so many levels for the rest of my life.

Music News - Which artists have influenced you?

I am most influenced by Bruno Mars, John Legend, Justin Timberlake, Brandy, JoJo, and of course the musical icon, Michael Jackson.

Music News - What can you tell me about your experience on The X Factor USA? How did that experience shape your career?

The X Factor journey was an incredible " career boot camp" experience. I was able to perform every week on lie TV on an amazing stage (full light and sound production) and with a live studio audience. It was a huge blessing too because of the undeniable supportive worldwide fan base that joined my movement in music. It was the first time in my career that I got to...kind of get a glimpse of what living my career could feel like. I loved every minute of it!

Music News - Paulina Rubio mentored you on The X Factor. What was the most important thing she taught you about the music industry?

The most important thing she told me was to keep my smile and keep my spirit. She said that out of everyone in the music industry, there was no "Josh Levi" and that people are waiting for me to take that spot. She would always reiterate the fact that I reminded her of Michael...which carries a huge responsibility and that in itself was such an honor, and something I will always remember moving forward in my career.

Music News - What advice would you give to people thinking of trying out for The X Factor?

I would say, just go for it, pick a song you absolutely love to sing and would want to show off and be the best you can be. Once you've practiced it...sing it to everyone that will listen. If you work hard on your craft at the end of the day...No matter what feedback you get, whether it is negative or positive, you won't have regrets if you gave 100%. Oh and...Never take no for an answer.

Music News - I understand that you have a huge following on Twitter. Do you have any crazy fan stories?

I wouldn't say crazy but cool. My sister is a rhythmic gymnast, and I was supporting her at an international meet one weekend in Vegas. A Russian gymnast walks up to me (in tears) who didn't speak any English with my video playing on her phone. She just kept pointing at me and pointing at the phone with tears running down her face. All I could do was nod yes and hug her. That was pretty cool.

Music News - You collaborated with Ellona Santiago on a cover of the Katy Perry hit Unconditionally. What can you tell me about that?

Ellona and I are super cool friends. We both loved the song and would always sing harmonies together, so we thought it would be awesome that while she was in town for the X Factor Finale show that we record the cover video together. The video was really fun to shoot...although the water was crazy COLD! Katy Perry's "Unconditionally" is such a great a song and the rest is history.

Music News - You have worked with some big names in the business and considering you are only 15, you have come a very long way. What do you attribute this success to?

Sacrifice, God, Hard Work, and my Mom.

Music News - Anything you would like to share, from upcoming shows to albums?

I am releasing a song in a couple of weeks on Valentine's Day for my fans, and will be releasing my single later on this year. Just stay updated on my twitter feed...I'm always tweeting my fans letting them know what's going and what's coming up.

Music News - And finally, tell us a "secret" about yourself that nobody knows… until now!

TOP SECRET: Jennifer Lawrence and myself will be getting married as soon as I catch up to her in age.... and height. Ha ha


Follow Josh on Twitter https://twitter.com/JoshLeviWorld