“I had to learn to put myself first and I think the whole album has that vibe,” she says. “It was very important to strengthen me through my music.”
In celebration of their new set, Advertising panel asked Danna Paola 20 questions. Check out her answers below.
What is the best word to describe your new album, “KO”?
Folks. I would say it is my most personal album because I have been involved in every way. Art, lyrics, music, visuals, video clips, all of that. This is my newborn baby.
Which song on the album do you connect to most and why?
“Ordinary Love.” This song is my most personal track on the album. It defines my emotional process and everyone who heard it felt my pain and what I went through from beginning to end. I wrote this song in January 2020 and I had to understand what common love meant and that I deserved better.
Which song on the album do you think will become a fan favorite and why?
I hope all of them! I created this album so that my fans can understand a personal part of me.
Which songs on the album were the first and the last to enter the album?
The first one I wrote was “Friend de Semana”, when I was living in Madrid in 2018. The last song that was part of the album was “Justified”, which I had for about five or six years – but I knew it was the piece that my album was missing.
What is your biggest goal for 2021?
Focusing on my mental and emotional health. I feel very happy at this point in my life, but I am trying to find a balance between my career and my personal life. Professionally, I have another project in mind that is a musical concept that I have been working on for the past three months. I know I’m releasing my new album, but I already want to work on my next album and discover new artists to work with.
What was the first song you bought for yourself and what was the medium?
It was “Amor Prohibido” by Selena Quintanilla and an album by Mecano, both were CDs.
What was the first show you saw?
The Jonas Brothers in 2009. I was filming a soap opera and I had the opportunity to watch them on show. It was my first show where I bought my own ticket and everything. I saw them again in 2019.
What did your parents do for a living when you were a child?
My father was a musician – he was part of a boy band – and my mother was a kindergarten teacher.
Who made you realize that you could be a full-time artist?
Since I can remember, I always wanted to be an artist. Of course, my parents believed in me and supported me since I was a child. I also had to believe in myself as an artist, and never give up, especially when I came back to music. I also think that all the support I received from my fans made me believe that I could be a full-time artist. Thanks to them, I am where I am.
What’s at the top of your professional wish list?
I’m always dreaming big! I want so much to perform in Brazil, since always! I want to collaborate with Jennifer Lopez. I would like to write and produce a film. I would like to make an album with all my best friends. I would like to perform at the Super Bowl.
How did your hometown / city shape who you are?
I am a very proud Mexican. I think Mexico is a very special country and that made me fall in love with music. The Mexican public is difficult to win, but it is incredible and I believe that is what helped me to grow as an artist.
What was the last song you heard?
“My Immortal” by Evanescence. It’s very dark, but I’m in a bad mood.
If you could see any artist on show, dead or alive, who would it be?
Michael Jackson, Beyoncé or Lady Gaga. I am a superfan of these three artists because they are great performers who give their all on stage.
What was the craziest thing you saw happening in the crowd on one of your sets?
This time, a male fan asked if he could propose to her boyfriend during my show. It was so special to see them engaged in one of my shows with my music. I will never forget that night – they made me believe in love again.
What is your favorite karaoke?
“I Wanna Dance with Somebody” and “I Will Always Love You” by Whitney Houston. It never fails.
What movie or music always makes you cry?
I am a complete Cancerian, I am always crying with all the movies and music. Movies are The notebook and A star is born. Songs? Every time I write a song, I cry. I also remember hearing “Dias Raros” by Vetusta Morla when we were filming [Netflix thriller series] Elite and I cried a lot. It breaks my heart.
What TV series have you watched several times?
Elite clear! Gossip Girl, Breaking Bad – and I think I would watch Dingy again. I think it’s one of the craziest series I’ve ever seen. I was on edge all the time and a lot of things made sense.
What is it that even your most dedicated fans don’t know about you?
They know everything about me and sometimes I feel like they know more than I do. But, I have to make my bed before I sleep. Everything has to be perfect – the sheets, the pillows. I like to sleep without anything bothering me.
If you weren’t a musician, what would you be?
A full-time actress. But I also love gastronomy, maybe I’m a chef.
What advice would you give to your younger self?
Do not open your true heart to those who do not care for it. You never know how people are going to take advantage of you. I have been very selective with the people in my life.