There’s one thing undeniably magnetic about Victoria Justice through the holidays. Maybe it’s the combo of nostalgia and sparkle she carries into each room, or possibly it’s the truth that even her Christmas tales sound like scenes from a vacation film—full with shock puppies, vinyl crackle, and the gentle glow of a tree within the background. This yr, as she drops a brand new vacation single infused with ukulele appeal and old-school heat, Victoria invitations us right into a season that’s much less about spectacle and extra about intention: unplugging, discovering pleasure within the quiet, and letting creativity move.
But don’t mistake her calm for stillness. Justice is in a full-blown inventive renaissance. Between new music, an upcoming horror movie, and a renewed deal with initiatives that really feel actualshe’s entering into an period outlined by authenticity and coronary heart. In this candid dialog, she opens up in regards to the recollections that formed her, the worst present she’s ever acquired (belief us, it’s a plot twist), and the spark behind her vacation observe: one which’s cozy, emotional, and destined to soundtrack your December. Welcome to Victoria’s most trustworthy, grounded, and glitter-touched vacation but.
What’s your fondest Christmas reminiscence?
When I used to be 15, my dad and mom stunned my sister and me with two puppies. I knew one was coming, however the second was an entire shock — my 15-year-old mind genuinely thought they’d by accident despatched an additional pet. It was actually the very best day ever, and so they turned two very beloved members of our household for a very long time. I miss Sammy and Sophie day by day.
What’s in your wishlist this yr?
Honestly, nothing materials comes to thoughts. I’d love to take every week off, unplug and be by the ocean with an excellent e-book. Mostly I’m trying ahead to spending time with household and buddies, consuming nice meals, and making new recollections. And possibly I’ll deal with myself to a little bit purchasing spree — I believe I’ve earned that.
Tell us about your new single. What made you need to drop a Christmas-themed music?
I wrote it a couple of yr in the past, and as quickly as we completed it, I knew I wished to put it out. I’ve all the time liked the concept of a ukulele Christmas music — it feels basic however nonetheless distinctive and nostalgic, and I’m actually pleased with the way it turned out. It even begins with the sound of a vinyl report enjoying and ends with that very same crackle. I’m actually glad I added that element — it brings within the feeling of heat I wished to create, like being by a hearth and sitting by the lights of a tree. The message is nice, cozy, and fairly universally relatable. I really like Christmas music, and I like that this one is chill with out being overly cheery, whereas nonetheless supplying you with that heat vacation feeling.
What do you hope your followers really feel once they hear?
I hope it places them within the Christmas temper and so they really feel the sentiment and emotion behind it. Maybe they relate to it, or possibly it simply makes them really feel cozy inside. I additionally like that it’s a Christmas music with out hitting you over the pinnacle with vacation cheer — these are my favorites. When they’re too cheery, it might probably drive me a little bit loopy.
What’s your inventive course of like? What evokes you or will get you right into a inventive state?
I normally brainstorm a bit earlier than a session and are available in with a spark — typically only a title, different occasions a lyric concept. Rather a lot relies on who I’m writing with. I’m actually impressed by the vitality within the room, the devices, and the producer. When Toby picked up the ukulele throughout this session with him and Will Jay (different songwriter) the music simply form of began flowing. I used to be additionally in a brand new relationship on the time, so the lyrics about wanting love to final by the vacations actually resonated with me.
I additionally love understanding or doing sizzling yoga earlier than a session — it grounds me and will get me right into a centered inventive headspace.
You’ve had such unimaginable success in your profession. What’s subsequent for you? What do you would like for the longer term?
I’m not precisely certain what’s subsequent, however I’m actually having fun with being inventive with my music and releasing new songs. I’d love to put out an EP subsequent, ultimately main up to a full album. Acting-wise, I’ve a horror movie I shot this summer time known as Send A Scare popping out subsequent yr. I’m actually pleased with it and excited for folks to see it. I’m trying ahead to taking up extra appearing initiatives I’m enthusiastic about and persevering with to discover creatively in each music and movie.
Victoria, it is time for some Rapid Fireside Holiday questions! Mariah Carey or Michael Bublé?
Mariah Carey all the best way. She’s the queen of Christmas — these opening chimes of “AIWFCIY” are prompt serotonin. Sorry Michael!
Ugly Christmas sweater or glamorous vacation outfit?
Ugly Christmas sweater. They tickle me.
Wrapping presents or present luggage?
Wrapping presents myself! It’s oddly therapeutic and I take delight in doing it effectively.
Snowy winter getaway or tropical Christmas trip?
Ooo, robust one. I’m going with a tropical Christmas — I actually don’t love being chilly.
Gifting experiences or wrapped presents?
Both, however there’s one thing particular about watching somebody unwrap a bodily present. I really like a considerate little current.
Giving or receiving presents?
Receiving! Ha, simply kidding. I actually do love giving presents — I believe I’m an amazing present giver, and seeing somebody’s response brings me a lot pleasure.
Best Christmas present somebody’s ever given you?
Definitely our canines — nothing will ever high that. I’m an animal lover by and thru, so it’s a very particular reminiscence.
Worst present you’ve ever acquired or given?
I as soon as dated somebody who gave me a “personalized” deck of playing cards for our first Christmas collectively. He hyped it up a lot that I used to be shocked after I opened it and had to disguise my disappointment — particularly after I went all-out with considerate presents for him. Needless to say, we’re now not collectively, haha. Wishing him the very best although — hopefully, he’s a greater present giver now.
Hot chocolate or eggnog?
Hot chocolate with mini marshmallows.
Favorite Christmas film?
Ooo, robust one! My high three are A Christmas Story, The Holidayand It’s a Wonderful Life.