Sky Katz talks "America's Got Talent," Long Island & more
In 2016, Sky Katz became an overnight star after appearing on the NBC hit America's Got Talent. Since that appearance on AGT, Sky has been covered in the New York Post and invited to perform on Fox 5 NY and the PIX 11 Morning Show. Sky has also released a new single, "Long Way To Go," which takes a strong stance against gun violence.
No Place Like Long Island had the pleasure of conducting Q&A with the Melville native, who performed live at Madison Square Garden during a New York Knicks game last week. More on Sky can be found at www.skykatzraps.com and www.facebook.com/skykatzraps.
How did you wind up on America's Got Talent? Did you have to audition?
Sky Katz: I ended up on America's Got Talent by sending in a video of me rapping. They called my dad and said wanted me on show.
What was your favorite part of being on America's Got Talent?
SK: My favorite part about being on AGT was performing in front of the celebrity judges and their warm remarks! Simon Cowell said I'm the coolest 11-year old on planet and should have my own show. Howie [Mandel] said I'm already a star!
Did you wind up talking to any of the other contestants while filming for America's Got Talent?
SK: Yes, I ended up talking to a lot of the other contestants because we spend a lot of time together in a pretty confined space. I became close with a lot of the finalists, including winner Grace VanderWaal.
Your single "Long Way To Go" is about gun violence. Were you inspired to write it based on a specific news story?
SK: No one story in particular made me want to write "Long Way To Go." It was really all the unnecessary killing and people getting hurt due to gun violence.
Do you plan for all of your music to be socially-conscious?
SK: All of my music isn't socially-conscious. I try to write fun songs and songs relevant to me also. I do hope that my music touches a lot of people in different ways, though.
What's coming up for you? Any live appearances?
SK: Since AGT, I've done a lot of love appearances and I'm constantly booking future shows to perform at as well. I try to involve myself in as much charity performances as I can.
When not busy with music or school, how do you like to spend your free time?
SK: With my free time, I'm playing basketball or hanging with my friends. I love to socialize.
Do you have a favorite restaurant?
SK: I love steak! So I don't really have a favorite restaurant, but I do like one with good steak.
Finally, what do you wish more people knew about Long Island?
SK: People don't realize that Long Island has some of the nicest restaurants and beaches in the world! I love Long Island and I'm glad I live here. We also have some pretty cool farms and tons of great malls.
