By: Sindy
While the sixth season of American Idol gets under way, last year's runner up Katharine McPhee is getting ready to launch her debut album. Sindy sat down to chat with Katharine about her new disk, her appearance on Ugly Betty, and what her new life in the limelight is really like.
Sindy: Why don't you start off by telling me about your debut album?
Katharine McPhee: I'm so excited about it. It comes out January 30, 2007, which is so soon. It's just a bit of a whirlwind right now. It's sort of rhythm-pop rather than pure R&B. It's just a nice mix. We made it in two and a half months, which is really fast and it was such a great collaborative effort. I worked with Babyface and Nate Hills, who has worked with Justin Timberlake and Jennifer Lopez. I also worked with The Underdogs, who produced music for Dreamgirls. It was thrilling making this album.
Sindy: How are you adjusting to your new-found celebrity?
Katharine McPhee: You know, I'm just having a great time. I went to the Golden Globes last night and then I went to Prince's after party. It was amazing. There were just all these A-listers there. It was surreal. It can be hard to take in sometimes but I have a really great manager. And I'm really just having a good time.
Sindy: What's been the biggest hurdle to overcome?
Katharine McPhee: I guess dealing with the media. The online world is just so powerful these days - rumors spread like wildfire. I have people asking me the craziest things - that aren't even slightly based in reality.
Sindy: Who are your biggest musical influences?
Katharine McPhee: Growing up I would have to say Paula Abdul, ironically. I also really loved Alanis Morissette and Celine Dion. Oh and I loved Bush. I had a huge crush on Gavin Rossdale and had posters of him all over my room. These days, I'd have to say Fergie. She's so fun. Also, Justin Timberlake, Christina Aguilera, Puffy, KT Tunstall.
Sindy: Who is the coolest person you've worked with to date?
Katharine McPhee: These are hard questions! I've worked with some amazing people but I think I got most excited about The Neptunes. That was pretty thrilling.
Sindy: Who would you like to work with in the future?
Katharine McPhee: I'd love to work with Fergie. Absolutely.
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