June 08, 2021 • bachelor insider
High Notes with Bri Stauss: 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 Bri Stauss, who won “Listen to Your Heart” alongside Chris Watson. Though the pair amicably split in January, Bri is thriving in her solo career and current dating endeavors. Read on for her high notes!
What did you learn about yourself from competing on “Listen to Your Heart”?
I learned that I could overcome my insecurities and anxieties if I believed in myself enough. I had never been in a situation where I was forced to get over my fears so quickly. Had it not been for the show, I would never have known I could grow so quickly in such a short amount of time. It literally changed who I am as a person and as a musician.
How did the show help you grow as an artist?
The show helped me grow as an artist by providing a platform for me to share my music with people from all around the world. I never thought my music would be heard by so many people! I have developed relationships with individuals in the industry I never would have had it not been for the show.
What is your favorite memory from filming?
My favorite memory from filming was when the entire cast would play, sing, and dance around the piano. I will never forget the uniting feeling that I felt and how special it was to be in the same room with such uniquely talented artists.
If you have any regrets from your time on the show, what would you have done differently?
My biggest regret from my time on the show was being too hard on myself. I wish I would have allowed myself a little more grace and loved myself through the tough moments. With that being said, it opened up my eyes and taught me how to be softer on myself in the future. I’m grateful for those experiences because they made me so much stronger.
What was your proudest moment on the show?
The finale! I will never forget the feeling I experienced when Chris Harrison called out our names as the winners. The entire room screamed for what felt like hours and I had never felt happier. Everyone yelled “Chris and Bri” as we ran through the aisles and on to our tour bus. It was a literal scene from a movie.
What has been your biggest musical accomplishment since doing the show?
I will soon be releasing an original song I wrote that is my favorite I have ever written and cannot wait to share it with the world! It’s called “Malibu.”
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How did the show impact your outlook on love?
The show taught me how to be vulnerable, never hold back, and to fight for the person you love like there’s no tomorrow.
If you could only sing with two other “LTYH” contestants for the rest of your life, who would you choose?
Natascha Bessez and Rudi!
How would you describe your strongest friendship on the show and who was it with?
Definitely Natascha! We bonded instantly and continue to see each other almost weekly. I love that girl more than anything and we’ve had each other’s back since day one!
Would you ever date a musician again?
I would definitely consider dating a musician again. It was the most magical feeling to share the stage with the one I loved. I felt so safe and secure and like I could take on the world!
How would you describe your love life today?
My love life is going pretty well at the moment…
What are you looking forward to most in the rest of 2021?
Concerts and tours! I can’t wait to play live music again.