The singer-songwriter reflects on her breakout year and looks to the future.
No matter how long you've been in the industry, sometimes all you need is that one song to catapult you to the top. At least that's how it has seemed to be for Rachel Platten. After her single, "Fight Song," dropped in February, its uplifting message and pop crescendo, grabbed the attention of music lovers and brands alike.
And the success of the track made Rachel a household name and has brought her to not only release her debut album on January 1, Wildfire, but also allow her to take it on a full-fledged tour.
"A year ago I was playing house concerts and traveling the country in my van and now I am about to head out on a headlining tour," the 34-year-old singer told Myspace. "I am living my dream, pretty incredible."
She also added, "I am looking forward to having longer sets and for everyone to finally hear all of the new music!"
With a New Year's Day release, Rachel has some big plans to celebrate the occasion. She'll be performing at Dick Clark's New Year's Rockin' Eve with Ryan Seacrest on December 31. "I have grown up watching the segment so it's super exciting to be part of the show," she explained. "To celebrate the release, I will be joining fans in a couple different cities the first week of January!"
Rachel also took some time to look back on her favorite moments (and a few regrets) of 2015 as well as made a few wishes for the new year.
Best moment of 2015: GMA—when Times Square was taken over by my big dumb smiling face and the hashtag, #myfightsonggma.
Moment you'd like to forget in 2015: When I tripped and fell flat on my face at a radio winter concert in PA. Oh the horror.
Most unforgettable city you played in 2015: Going back to my hometown Boston and playing the Mixfest and having my 92 year-old nana in the crowd. She came for me, but stayed for Flo Rida.
The 2015 concert you wish you could redo and get right: In hindsight, I regret telling the NYC crowd at Madison Square Garden theatre that I was moving from NYC to LA. Oops. First time being boo'ed. Sad.
The first time you heard "Fight Song" on the radio: In February, a radio station in Baltimore—Mix 96.5—decided to take a chance on it because they felt the world needed the message of empowerment. That set all my other dreams into motion...
The most memorable fan story that was inspired by "Fight Song": Caly—the teenager that sang "Fight Song" after using it to help her beat ovarian cancer. I got to do a duet with her on Ellen. It was pretty amazing.
Most interesting fan gift of 2015: Hmmmmmm.... A hotel I stayed at had a photo of my dog framed with his name engraved on the frame in my room when I checked in.
The album you couldn't stop listening to in 2015: Like everyone else... 1989.
The record you were looking forward to in 2015 but wasn't what you hoped for: All exceeded my expectations (not falling for this one ;)))
The 2015 song that you love listening to but are a little embarrassed to admit: My own songs. Oops.
2015 film that you could watch over and over: INSIDE OUT
TV show that you binge watched in 2015: Mr. Robot. So so so so so good. Jessica Jones. Hell yes, Kristen Ritter. And Last Man On Earth. And Are You the One? (Yes, the MTV show geared to teens).
TV show from 2015 that you think should be cancelled next season: mmmhmmmm....
Artist that you think we should look out for in 2016: New album coming from this upstart pop artist Rachel Platten. She's a bit preachy but she means well and her songs are killer!
Post show go to snack? Skinny Popcorn
Favorite "Stand By You" moment of 2015: All of my friends, family, team, fans standing by me, and helping make my dreams a reality this year.
If there was one artist you want to work with in 2016, who would it be? Sia
What are your plans for 2016? World domination and love spreading. I also would like to do more brunch.
What is one wish you have for 2016? That I'm able to continue living my dream and spreading love and impacting people in the same way that "Fight Song" did.
What do you want to see/happen in 2016 that isn't music related? Either Jon Snow or Khaleesi claiming the iron throne. Also, peace on earth and more love godammit.