Singer and Actress Cristina Lizzul Connects With DCWS For An Exclusive Q&A
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Cristina Lizzul is a multi-talented Italian-American actress and recording artist currently based in Los Angeles. As an actress, Cristina has starred and appeared in several Italian feature films such as “Righteousness" and "Subject 0- Shattered Memories", as well as American films "Distant Vision", directed by Francis Ford Coppola, "Acacia Avenue" and "Lemonheads". Not to be outdone by her 'in front of the camera' accolades, Cristina just released a very DOPE six-track EP entitled "PERCIPIENCE".
We connected with Cristina to find out more about her new EP, how she became interested in singing and acting, how she compares the music industry in Italy to the U.S., and much more. After reading this exclusive interview with Cristina, stream/download "PERCIPIENCE" below.
Tell us about your new EP "PERCIPIENCE". What does the title mean to you and where can we all stream/download it?
PERCIPIENCE is a synonym of wisdom, a synonym of open mindfulness and insight to sensitivity. The EP was released on July 20th and is currently available for streaming and download on Spotify, Itunes, Apple Music, Tidal etc.
What is your favorite song from the EP and why?
It always alters! Some days it’s Advice, other days it’s Medea and other days it’s another song. This week it’s probably Advice, My 16 year old Labrador passed away this week so when I went back to the song and listened to the lyrics “Don’t waste your time and figure it out”, it triggered me to try my best to get back up.
What sparked your interest in singing?
I’ve been writing, singing and acting since I was a kid. I always wanted to create something from nothing. I guess it all came to life when I was in elementary school, we used to have creative classes like creative writing, music etc… and I remember always being the happiest when I was exploring my artistry and working on something creative.
We also heard you are an actress as well. Can you tell us what projects have you starred in?
I’ve worked primarily in Italy on independent feature films “Righteousness, Subject 0- Shattered Memories, Lemonheads”.
How did you start your acting career?
I started out with theatre, I knew I wanted to be an actress at a very young age so I had my first professional experience when I was 11 year old, I landed my first feature film role in the horror movie “La Prigione Oscura."
We also heard you will be in an upcoming Francis Ford Coppola project. Can you tell us your involvement in that?
I had a small supporting role, I played “Zia Carolina” (Aunt Caroline). The project is very exciting, it’s an experimental live cinema project. The maestro is exploring a new form of film-making. At the moment, Francis Ford Coppola’s intent is to workshop portions of the script so I was a part of an experiment of the latest cinematic innovation that he’s generating.
If you could work beside any actor, who would it be and why?
I would say Penelope Cruz, I think she’s an extremely refined actress, the fact that she acts in English, Spanish, Italian, French is so fascinating. I’ve always wanted a career like hers, the ability to be so versatile and live so truthfully under the vests of so many characters in so many different languages. I feel like she would really push me over my boundaries as an actress, I would learn so much if I were to ever work with her.
Coming from Italy, was it hard or has it been hard making a name for yourself in the U.S?
Of course, I’m still in the process of building my brand and career. LA is a city that people label as immersed in competition. I don’t see it that way, I see every artist as a possible collaborator. Living in LA opened so many doors for me, I have all the resources that I need to create, I’m constantly inspired and constantly have ideas. It’s definitely not easier in LA, It’s probably harder to make in in the States but the reason why I’ve had more momentum here than in Italy is because I have all the resources that I need to create in this city. There are productions studios, recording studios and artists in every corner of this city so it makes it easier to stay productive and focused whereas in Italy if I had an idea, I didn’t have the resources to bring it to life.
How would you compare the music industry in Italy to that of the United States for emerging artists such as yourself?
I feel like the Italian entertainment market lacks meritocracy, I feel like there are limits and boundaries for emerging artists whereas in the States merit is given to where it is deserved.
What do you do on your off time? Hobbies? Charities?
When I have some free time I love to go back home to Naples, Italy to see my family and friends, spending time with my girls is my favorite thing to do, all I need is a sunny day and REAL friend to spend time with. I’m very involved in women’s empowerment, rights and body image issues. I’m in the process of becoming a spokesperson and ambassador for the eating disorder community.
What advice would you give to someone who wants to follow in your footsteps and try to juggle both acting and singing?
Work very hard and be patient. The most substantial increase I’ve seen in my career was when I was working my hardest. This year I decided to make it my year of success so I forced myself to adopt a fervent and strenuous discipline and determination that I never knew I had in me. It’s not easy to juggle both and a lot people constantly tell me that it’s not a wise decision to pursue both careers simultaneously, they always say that I should keep my focus on one thing because or else I'm not going to achieve either of them but I‘m an artist and I have a deep urge to create , whether it’s singing, writing or acting, I wouldn’t be content by excluding one. I've gotten into so many arguments with people tying to limit my creativity. Don’t ever let anyone tell that you can’t achieve something.
What three words would you use to describe "PERCIPIENCE" EP?
Chill, Soulful, Meaningful
If you could collaborate with any artist on a song who would it be and why?
SZA, I adore her poetry like lyrics and angelic sound, I just think her music is beautiful, it has that alternative R&B sound with so much swag and simultaneously this sexy rasp and sky high falsetto that’s so dreamy.
What is next for Cristina Lizzul?
I will be filming the music video to "Medea" this week in the beautiful Italian island, Capri. A visual album is the next project, inspired by Terrence Malick-like visuals, the city of Napoli, Beyonce’s Lemonade and other things that I cannot yet reveal.
Where can future fans find you on social media?
You can follow me on Instagram, Twitter, and my Facebook Page. My EP “PERCIPIENCE” is available on Itunes, Spotify, Tidal, Applemusic etc.
Connect with Cristina Lizzul: Website Instagram Twitter Facebook IMDB
