Kenzie Ziegler, a name synonymous with talent and tenacity, has captivated audiences since her early days on the hit reality show “Dance Moms.” However, the Pittsburgh native is far more than just a former child star. Today, Kenzie stands as a multifaceted artist – a singer, songwriter, actress, and social media sensation – carving her own path in the entertainment industry. In a recent interview, Kenzie opened up about her evolution, from her experiences on “Dance Moms” to her flourishing music career, offering a glimpse into the life of a young woman who has grown up under the constant glare of the public eye.
For many, Kenzie’s journey began on “Dance Moms,” where she, alongside her older sister Maddie, navigated the intense world of competitive dance under the watchful eye of Abby Lee Miller. While the show launched her into the spotlight, it also presented unique challenges, particularly in her relationship with dance. Kenzie candidly admits that during her “Dance Moms” years, dance felt like a chore, something she “had to do.” This complex relationship with dance is powerfully explored in her song “anatomy,” a track that resonated deeply with fans and showcased a more vulnerable and artistic side of Kenzie. The music video for “anatomy,” choreographed by her sister Maddie, is a raw and emotional piece that visually represents Kenzie’s journey and her evolving relationship with movement. The concept for the video, born from a desire for authenticity, involved stripping away elaborate treatments in favor of a simple warehouse setting where dance could take center stage, allowing the emotion of the song to truly shine through.
The bond between Kenzie and Maddie Ziegler has been a constant narrative throughout their careers, from their shared beginnings on “Dance Moms” to their individual successes. Growing up in the public eye and working together from a young age, their relationship, as Kenzie describes, was not always easy. Being together “24/7” and working in a high-pressure environment meant that their sisterly bond sometimes took a backseat to their professional lives. Kenzie humorously recalls disliking Maddie as a child due to the constant proximity. However, as they’ve matured and pursued different paths, their relationship has transformed into a cherished friendship. Collaborations, like their American Eagle campaign, are now opportunities they relish, celebrating their sisterhood and mutual support.
Reflecting on her dance background, particularly the intensity of “Dance Moms,” Kenzie acknowledges that it wasn’t always a “safe space.” However, she has actively worked towards healing her relationship with dance. Now, she finds joy in dancing on her own terms, free from external pressures. The “anatomy” music video became a significant step in this healing process, allowing her to reconnect with dance in a meaningful way. Despite not considering herself a “best dancer,” Kenzie recognizes dance as an integral part of her childhood and a powerful form of self-expression.
“anatomy” not only marked a personal milestone for Kenzie but also became a viral sensation on social media, amplifying its message of emotional vulnerability. The outpouring of support from fans and the general public was unexpected and profoundly impactful. Kenzie, who often felt isolated in her experiences, realized that many others shared similar struggles, particularly concerning parental absence. Sharing her song and hearing fans’ stories proved to be a cathartic and healing experience, solidifying the song’s significance beyond its artistic merit.
Growing up under constant public scrutiny, especially after the immense popularity of “Dance Moms,” presented unique challenges. Kenzie candidly discusses the pressure of being a role model and the feeling of having “a billion eyes” on her at all times. Navigating adolescence and young adulthood in the spotlight meant that personal missteps were often amplified. She reflects on feeling “older than I am,” a consequence of a life lived publicly from a young age. This accelerated maturity sometimes makes it harder to connect with peers her own age, finding more comfortable interactions with older individuals. Despite the pressures, Kenzie expresses gratitude for her upbringing, believing it has equipped her to handle diverse situations with resilience.
Transitioning from reality TV personality on “Dance Moms” to a credible musical artist has been a journey of evolution and self-discovery. Kenzie began releasing music at a young age, but her artistic approach has undergone a significant transformation. Initially, she didn’t write her own music, but now songwriting has become central to her artistry. This shift has allowed her to define her sound and vision for her music career, making the process “fun and exciting.” Her album “biting my tongue,” released the previous year, is a testament to this evolution, showcasing experimentation with new styles and sounds. Each writing session became an opportunity to push boundaries and explore new sonic territories, reflecting her growing confidence and artistic freedom. While the entire album represents this growth, “casualty” holds a special place as her personal favorite, embodying the vulnerability and authenticity she strives for in her music.
Beyond her musical achievements, Kenzie has reached significant personal milestones, including buying her own home at the age of 20. While acknowledging these accomplishments, she expresses the most pride in the strong support system she has cultivated. Recognizing a time when she lacked close friendships, Kenzie is now deeply grateful for her “amazing family and amazing friends.” Building these meaningful relationships has been a conscious effort, highlighting her personal growth and maturity beyond her professional successes.
Looking ahead, Kenzie is enthusiastic about the future of her music career. Touring as an opening act has been a valuable experience, allowing her to connect with audiences and gauge their response to her music. While performing “bad for you” and “paper” have been highlights, the dream of a headline tour remains a significant aspiration. When asked about dream collaborations, Kenzie lists artists like Billie Eilish, Gracie Abrams, and Lizzy McAlpine, all of whom she admires for their unique artistry and authenticity. Finding inspiration in artists who started young and prioritize genuine expression, Kenzie is clearly charting a course that values artistic integrity and personal connection with her audience.
Despite a demanding schedule, Kenzie’s dream day off is surprisingly simple: a day spent relaxing at home, perhaps indulging in her love for The Sims. This glimpse into her downtime reveals a relatable side, contrasting with the glamorous image often associated with public figures. Her passion for The Sims, even extending to sharing it with her boyfriend, underscores her down-to-earth nature and appreciation for simple pleasures. Describing her Sims gameplay as creating “the most perfect family” and guiding them through generations, Kenzie reveals a fondness for nurturing and creating stable environments, perhaps a reflection of her own journey navigating a less-than-traditional upbringing.
Reflecting on her early career, including projects like her book and the “Mack Z” persona, Kenzie acknowledges a disconnect from her current identity. While these ventures were part of her journey, shaped by external pressures and the “Dance Moms” fame, they don’t fully represent who she is today. However, she recognizes their formative influence, acknowledging that those experiences have contributed to her present self.
Kenzie’s songwriting is deeply personal, often drawing inspiration from past relationships and family dynamics. She describes her songwriting process as often starting with a “therapy session,” where she openly expresses her emotions and experiences. This vulnerability then translates into lyrics, often crafted quickly after the initial emotional outpouring. While she admits to disliking discussing her feelings in everyday life, songwriting provides a dedicated space for self-expression and emotional processing.
Despite her public persona, Kenzie emphasizes her normalcy. She identifies as both a “social butterfly” and someone who values “alone time,” highlighting a balanced personality beyond the spotlight. Dispelling glamorous perceptions, she playfully admits to being “normal,” with a messy house and a casual appearance when not in the public eye. This emphasis on normalcy further humanizes her, making her relatable to her audience.
Looking to the future, Kenzie excitedly shares plans for new music, with dedicated writing sessions on the horizon. While details remain under wraps, she assures fans that more music is coming and reiterates her aspiration for a headline tour. This forward-looking perspective, combined with her reflective insights on her journey from “Dance Moms” to a burgeoning pop star, paints a picture of an artist continually evolving and embracing her multifaceted career.
