Summary
Overview
Anastasia joins Dig It for an intimate conversation about her remarkable 25-year music career, opening up about ageism in the industry, her breast cancer journey, navigating menopause, and the joys and challenges of caring for her brother Brian who has learning disabilities. She reflects on how different the music industry was when she started—going from unemployment to global stardom—and shares wisdom from icons like Elton John and Celine Dion who supported her early career.
From Unemployment to Record Deal: The Early Years
Anastasia reflects on the dramatic transformation of her life from receiving unemployment checks to landing a major record deal. She describes how everything was completely different back then, with no one to compare herself to and no role models in her corner. Once she entered the industry, however, she received incredible support from legendary artists like Elton John, Celine Dion, and Pavarotti, who embraced and validated her unique voice and style.
- The year she got her deal, she was earning an unemployment check and was about to give up singing
- Everything about the music industry was completely different when she started compared to now
- She had no one to compare herself to when trying to get a deal—no role models or guidance
- The record company supported her authentic style, including wearing glasses and being tomboyish
- Legendary artists like Elton, Celine, and Pavarotti were incredibly kind and supportive, asking how they could help
" The year I got my deal, I was earning an unemployment check. I was going to give up singing. Everything was completely different than it is now. "
" From ashes to riches. "
Elton John: The Godfather of Musicians
Anastasia shares heartwarming stories about Elton John's legendary support for new artists across every decade. She describes how he validates emerging musicians in a way that makes them feel like they matter, recalling her childhood love of his music and albums. His genuine embrace of talent has made him a godfather figure to generations of artists, including herself.
- Elton John supports new musicians from every decade with equal respect and love
- There's a validation he gives new artists that makes them feel they matter
- She grew up loving Elton's albums and voice, which were in her mom's collection
- As a kid, she wanted a pair of his windshield wiper glasses
" He is like the godpappy and fairy godmother, whatever he'd prefer, as to all musicians. And he supports the new musician from every decade and has given them just as much respect and love to each and every person. "
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