Pia Toscano’s light is blinding, her voice and spirit undeniably pure. The singer opens up about her journey from “American Idol” to “Westside” and touring with the greats. In what the star calls her second act, Toscano has graced stages with Jennifer Lopez, David Foster and Andrea Bocelli to mention a few. After her dramatic departure from “American Idol,” Lopez, Toscano’s biggest supporter and mentor, brought her to sing as one of her background singers on tour. She is concurrently touring with Andrea Bocelli – the world’s most famous and beloved tenor – and David Foster – Emmy Award and 16-time Grammy award-winning writer/producer.
Q: What has been the most surprising self-discovery that you have had during your journey in the entertainment industry?
Pia Toscano: My journey is exactly the way that God intended for it to be. I have learned and struggled through releasing all control, and I have tried my best to surrender to him in terms of timing. Through social media, we can get caught up in comparing ourselves to others and not thinking we are where we need to be because someone else got there quicker. Now I understand that God knows exactly when it’s time for you to be seen!
Q: Tell us about your journey in self-love. What words of advice do you have for other people who struggle with this?
Pia Toscano: It became exhausting always trying to censor myself and paint this perfect picture that didn’t exist. People gravitate towards you when they can connect with your complete and authentic self. Before, I was too scared to disappoint people and wanted to please. I became guarded and walled off, so I gave off a vibe that did not align with my real self. I am a warm and loving person, goofy and talkative. Imperfections are quite beautiful, and I’m learning to welcome mine. Honestly, embracing God and my church helped me to find self-love. My advice to others is to be easy on yourself because no life or individual is ever perfect. Try to stop comparing yourself to others on social media because we are all struggling in our own way.
Q: You were four when you began dreaming about a career in music. Were there any lessons that you had to learn in regards to waiting for things to fall into place in your career and achieving success?
Pia Toscano: Patience is key: Let the word “NO” fuel your fire instead of defeat you.
Q: What does success mean to you?
Pia Toscano: Success is when people reach out to tell me that my voice and music helped them get through a difficult situation. My hope is that my music and performances are healing for people as well as a respite from the realities of the world that can often get us down. I say that success is being 100% your authentic self. Don’t try to chase formulas or be something that you’re not just to break into the industry. People can see right through that. If you believe in something, fight for it no matter how many oppose you.
Q: How can we find you?
Pia Toscano: On Spotify, iTunes, YouTube and on my Instagram @PiaToscano. I love having a personal relationship with my tribe who I call the “Sweet Ps.” I love to respond to DMs and meet new fans at shows.
Photography by Moldilox || Creative Director Tricia Love
Wardrobe Stylist Tina Choi || Hair Stylist Eduardo Ponce
Makeup Artist Lyndsay Zavitz || Location Edwards-Lowell Gallery
Featured Artwork by Risk Rock @RiskRock
