June 18, 2021 • bachelor insider
High Notes with Julia Rae: Catching Up with the 'Listen to Your Heart' Star
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 Julia Rae, whose inimitable talent and passion for her for cystic fibrosis foundation, Singing at the Top of My Lungs, commanded attention. While her relationships with Sheridan Reed and Brandon Mills lost tempo, her career — which includes a recent foray into acting — has continued to flourish. Read on for Julia’s high notes!
What did you learn about yourself from competing on “Listen to Your Heart”?
That I am not really cut out for reality TV!
How did the show help you grow as an artist?
I loved the diversity of artists and musical styles of my fellow castmates and was so blown away by and inspired by the talent on the show. Some of my favorite moments in the house were the impromptu jam sessions.
What is your favorite memory from filming?
My favorite memory from filming has got to be performing “The Bones” with Sheridan. We had never sung together before, but we fell right into a rhythm and worked so well together. It was pretty magical.
If you have any regrets from the show, what would you have done differently?
I would have stayed true to my first instinct and stayed with Sheridan.
What was your proudest moment on the show?
I am so proud of Sheridan’s and my two performances. I wish America got to see how we worked together and collaborated because that working chemistry isn’t always easy to find in this industry.
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What has been your biggest musical accomplishment since doing the show?
Through my nonprofit, Singing at the Top of My Lungs, I hosted a virtual concert. Nine of my “LTYH” castmates joined me and performed for a great audience. Together, we raised over $22,000 to support music therapy for hospitalized children.
How did the show impact your outlook on love?
I am an optimist and romantic at heart. I continue to believe in true and lasting love and can’t wait to find it.
If you could only sing with two other “LTYH” contestants for the rest of your life, who would you choose?
I felt an enormous amount of chemistry performing with Sheridan, so I would have to say Sheridan. The show also introduced me to the multi-talented Michael Todd. We have had the chance to collaborate in writing, producing, and performing. He challenges me as an artist, and I am constantly amazed by his talents — so I would also choose MT.
How would you describe your strongest friendship on the show and who was it with?
Rudi and I hit it off night one on the show and our friendship grew so strong throughout this unique experience that we now live together! I don’t know how I would have gotten through this past year without her and our friendship and sisterhood is the most special thing that came from “LTYH” for me.
Would you ever date a musician again?
Absolutely!
How would you describe your love life today?
Still searching.
What are you most looking forward to in the rest of 2021?
After many years of auditioning for acting roles, in early 2021, I landed my first leading role in a feature film [titled “Playing Through”] and I am currently on set filming. I am so excited about this project and can’t wait to share more about it!