Betty Who on Kylie, Demi and Troye | Photos: Zac Cassar
Hi Betty, where in the world are you this week?
I’m currently in New York City then traveling to Grand Rapids for GR Pride on Saturday, then Firefly Music Festival in Delaware on Sunday!
You recently released a song and video with the Queer Eye guys – what was it like working with them?
They are so wonderful and fun and just beautiful humans. It was so cool to spend the day with them all.
Are you a fan of the show? Who is your favorite?
I don’t have favorites! I honestly could use help from all of them, but especially Bobby. He’ll be getting a call when I redecorate my house.
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Did they share any advice/wisdom with you that resonated?
We were a little busy to delve into my personal struggles! But watching them change peoples lives on the show has definitely given me some things to think about.
Can you tell us your favorite memory of duetting with Troye Sivan?
Performing Heaven with him at his show in LA was pretty cool. His fans are so amazing and he’s such a talented young man.
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What about opening for Kylie Minogue?
Kylie came into my green room before our Sydney show and just sat and hung out with me for 20 minutes. It honestly was one of the most amazing experiences of my life, and to take that time out and talk to me and get to know me was so lovely of her. She is a class act, everything you’d ever want her to be. I have so much love for her. She’s Australia’s sweetheart. She’s basically unofficial royalty.
You once remixed a song for Demi Lovato. How did that come about?
That was a while ago, but if I remember correctly, it was around pride season and they asked me to do something fun for her! I still have the remix on my pre-show playlist.
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Have you ever met or spoken to the gay couple Dustin and Spencer whose proposal video to your song Somebody Loves You went viral?
I sang at their wedding! Dustin and Spencer and I have stayed in close contact ever since that video and I see them every time I go through Salt Lake City on tour.
Can you describe your encounters with LGBTI fans?
I love when fans share their coming out stories with me and how my songs have been involved in that time for them. It’s such an honour to be the soundtrack to somebody’s life, especially when they’re coping with finding themselves.
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We loved your wig in the Human Touch video. Are you familiar with or friends with wigstress Vanity from Australia, who has done wigs for so many Drag Race alumnus?
I love Vanity, I stalk him on Instagram all the time. He does so many of Courtney Act’s wigs and they look amazing.
Speaking of RPDR, would you ever consider being a judge on the series? Fave queen ever?
I have been dying to be a judge. Literally any day. Fave queen ever might be Courtney, but I’m a little biased, because she’s a friend of mine and I sort of feel like a proud Australian mom watching her out in the world killing it. I love her educational videos on things like Mardi Gras or gender identity. She’s creating really meaningful content that still to this day teaches me so much I didn’t know about this community.
You recently performed at the Vienna Life Ball. What was the experience like?
I was a part of the costume contest judges, yes. It was such a wild experience, everybody spent so much time and effort on their outfits, it was such a sight to behold.
You’re taking a very modern approach to releasing music this year. Do you think the traditional album as we know it will exist in 10 years?
I hope so. I love making albums, I love listening to albums and pray this format never dies.
What song from your discography are you proudest of and why?
Probably Wanna Be. It’s one of those songs that sort of flowed through me, I don’t feel entirely responsible for the creation of it. It felt more like a gift. It’s one of my favourite songs to sing and definitely a fan favourite.
You’re a classically-trained cellist. Is it your favorite instrument? Does the classical world still influence you?
Cello is definitely my favourite instrument. I listen to classical music often, and going to the orchestra is one of my favourite things to do in the world. Seeing the LA Phil at the Hollywood Bowl is my soul food.
BETTY PT. 1 is out now
