June 04, 2021 • bachelor insider
High Notes with Chris Watson: Catching Up with the 'Listen to Your Heart' Winner
It’s been just over a year since the inaugural season of “The Bachelor: Listen to Your Heart” finished airing on ABC.
The spin-off followed single singers and songwriters hoping to find love with each other through a shared passion for music. As viewers will recall, contestants performed well-known songs together — while also exploring their relationships with the help of “Bachelor”-style dates that focused on music. A handful of notable artists came in to act as guest judges throughout the series, such as Kesha, Jason Mraz, Toni Braxton, Ashlee Simpson, and Jewel.
But it was the gifted cast members who continuously stole the show with powerful vocals and, of course, major drama. So, what have they been up to since the competition concluded and cameras went down?
BachelorNation.com is progressively checking in with the cast, who are sharing love life updates, favorite memories from filming, musical milestones, and more.
Below, we’re catching up with Chris Watson, who won “Listen to Your Heart” alongside Bri Stauss. Though the pair amicably called it quits in January, Chris’ career and dating endeavors have only flourished further. Read on for his high notes!
What did you learn about yourself from competing on “Listen to Your Heart”?
I reaffirmed that I’m really, really in love with music and performing. I learned that it doesn’t matter the stage or the audience, the most important thing is connecting with the song and who you’re singing with, then take it from there.
How did the show help you grow as an artist?
My time on the show allowed me to take more authority with my creativity. A song or performance can be done a million ways, and I’ve learned to choose one way and stick with it. It’s not as important to worry how other people did it. The way I do it is just fine, just gotta trust yourself!
What is your favorite memory from filming?
My favorite memory was jamming with the other musicians! Right after our first performance, we got some cocktails and sang acoustic jams by the bar. We knew some of us were about to go home and it was so nice to convene around some chill tunes and relax! We sang “Friend in Me,” and I thought right then, “I have some friends for life in this room!”
If you have any regrets from your time on the show, what would you have done differently?
No regrets!
What was your proudest moment on the show?
My proudest moment was winning the show with Bri. We experienced so much joy! It was truly an out-of-body experience!
What has been your biggest musical accomplishment since doing the show?
Co-writing and producing the “Chris and Bri” album! I’ve always wanted my music to reach millions of people and, through the show, we were able to do that! It gave me the confidence to get back into music production and I’m so happy it did. I just finished production on another EP.
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How did the show impact your outlook on love?
The show made me believe in love again. It can truly happen whenever, however, wherever — you just have to believe! My relationship didn’t work out, but I’m so glad it has allowed me to become emotionally available again.
If you could only sing with two other “LTYH” contestants for the rest of your life, who would you choose?
Rudi! Just love her voice. And Ryan Neal. My man is so damn groovy!
How would you describe your strongest friendship on the show and who was it with?
I’m gonna have to say Gabe [Baker]! Love everyone on the show, but God brought us together for a reason! So glad we’ve been able lift each other up and reach so many with our live worship sessions.
Would you ever date a musician again?
I’m open to it! But not actively seeking it. Not seeking it because I usually keep things professional when working on music. But if someone catches my eye, hey, who’s to say it’s not meant to be?
How would you describe your love life today?
Juicy.
What are you most looking forward to in the rest of 2021?
The release of my new EP “Beauty of Love.” The best music I’ve made!