16 year old Mackenzie Sol is making everyone “Laugh” with his newest single. Mackenzie is originally from the UK but currently lives in Los Angeles working on his music and acting career. PopWrapped got the chance to talk to Mackenzie about life, acting and his newest single “Laugh.”

PopWrapped: What got you started in the music business?

Mackenzie Sol: I’ve always loved to sing — I think I sang before I talked!! Both my parents sing professionally, so there was constantly music throughout our house. From the age of six, I worked professionally in musical theatre. I performed in some amazing productions, one of which was the role of Billy Elliot. I moved to Los Angeles mainly for acting but started hanging with producers and recording music and immediately knew that’s what I wanted to do.

PW: Did you always know you wanted to pursue music? 

MS: I have early childhood memories of watching my parents perform. So, from a very young age, I just always knew I wanted to entertain — I genuinely feel it’s part of who I am. Everything I do revolves around music and entertainment.

Mackenzie Sol on X-Factor

PW: I have heard that you were the youngest contestant on X-Factor; how was that experience for you?

MS: Yes, I was only four! My mum was auditioning with her band, and I just kept getting in front of all the cameras until they eventually asked me to go in the room with the judges and sing. It was really cool that they let me in, and the judges were great. Afterwards, Simon Cowell got me and my mum tickets to go see the Lion King musical in the West End!! Brilliant experience!

PW: You’ve done countless stage productions. Has there been one show that you have enjoyed doing the most?

MS: Yes! Performing the title role of Billy [in Billy Elliot] was an amazing experience. It’s a story that is very true to my own life. 

PW: Do you think that acting influences your music or vice versa?

MS: I think that both acting and dancing have influenced my music. I’ve never been shy, and being an actor definitely has helped when I’m on stage singing to an audience. 

Mackenzie Sol “Laugh”

PW: Can you talk to us more about your latest single, “Laugh”?

MS: “Laugh” is an upbeat song with a real feel-good vibe. The lyrics have a great message telling people not to take life too seriously. When things get bad, just take a moment and try to laugh. 

PW: What inspired the single?

MS: My team and I were in a listening session, and, as soon as we heard the song, we all fell in love with it. The lyrics very much relate to my personality. The recording process was a lot of fun because the chorus is just laughs … Ha Ha Ha Ha! I tried singing the laughs in so many different ways. Some were really silly. Great fun, and I love the way it turned out!

PW: Who are your music influences?

MS: I grew up with R&B and love Stevie Wonder. I listen to the Justins — both Bieber and Timberlake. There are so many great artists right now; I try to listen to everyone!

Mackenzie Sol’s Summer Playlist

PW: What songs are currently on your summer playlist?  

MS: I seriously love “Despacito” by Daddy Yankee and Justin Bieber and Bruno Mars’s “That’s What I Like”.

PW: If you could describe your song “Laugh” in three words, what would those three words be?

MS: Fun, inspiring, awesome.

PW: Any plans to hit the road?

MS: Yes, and I’m so excited! I’m going on the Boys of Summer 2017 Tour all around the US! So stay tuned for tour dates!

PW: Speaking of hitting the road … If you could travel anywhere to spread your music, where would you go and why?

MS: I’m excited to have the opportunity to tour this summer, and, as long as I’m singing and sharing my music, it doesn’t matter where in the world I am.  

What’s Next For Mackenzie Sol?

PW: What else is happening next for you? 

MS: At present, I’m recording lots of music and will be releasing another single before the end of the year, I’m going on The Boys of Summer Tour, and I have a Netflix movie coming out — Pupstar 2! Lots of exciting things!! 

PW:  What would you like to say to all those who have supported you?

MS: I’d like to thank every single one of my fans … you’re all amazing, and I’m so grateful for your support!! I actually feel my fans are more friends than fans and love chatting to everyone on my social media platforms. I love connecting with everyone. 

Thanks to Mackenzie for taking the time to chat with us. If you want more of Mackenzie Sol, you can check him out on all social media platforms including Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook. Also don’t forget to check out his music on Spotify and YouTube.