A third season of Radio Disney’s Next Big Thing (N.B.T.) is well under way. Are you following along? The multi-platform feature, which launched the career of Allstar Weekend, is putting the spotlight on five fresh acts this fall, giving them national broadcast and online exposure separately for two weeks at a time.  

These past eight weeks, Radio Disney and Disney Channel audiences have been able to snag a look and listen at the talented artists, voting for their faves at RadioDisney.com or by texting “NBT" to DISNEY (347639) (message and data rates may apply so ask for the ’rents permission first).

The highest ranked N.B.T. artist at the end of it all will have the opportunity to have their single released by Disney Music Group and open for Allstar Weekend at a special holiday performance. Amazing!

Which remaining N.B.T. artist is the last to be showcased? Coco Jones—a 12-year-old pop singer and rapper—on-air from Nov. 10-23.

Who exactly is Coco and why does she rock? We caught up with the talented chica to find out…

GL: What was your first reaction when you found out you were going to be featured on N.B.T.?
Coco: I couldn't believe it! I was a huge fan of all the N.B.T. artists last season and knew what great talents were showcased on N.B.T.

You’ve performed Motown and love listening to artists such as Aretha Franklin and CeCe Winans. How was this type of music brought into your life, and what have you taken away from it?
My mom always said, if you can learn to sing songs the way these phenomenal singers do, you can sing anything. One thing shines through for all of these great artists, and that’s feeling. It is very important to me that I sing with a lot of emotion.

What is the song featured on N.B.T., “Real You,” about?
It’s a song I wrote about one of my friendships. We were really close growing up and then we had to go to different schools. When I saw her again, she was completely different. She had changed so she could fit in with a different crowd of girls. I wanted everyone to know not to change themselves for anyone. Be the best you can be, follow your own dreams and if people don't like you for being you, just walk away!

What is the biggest thing you hope listeners take away from your music?
All of my music is about positive values and ideas. I want kids to be true to stop following the crowd, stand up for what is right and know they can be anything in this world they want to be.

What’s one piece of advice you’d give to other girls looking to break into the music industry?
My choreographer always says, "Practice makes permanent!," which has been valuable for me. Another thing that’s so important to remember is that if you are not having fun, don't do it!

If you win N.B.T., what’s the first thing you’ll do?
Probably cry for about a hour, thank all of those who support me…and start looking for my new wardrobe to open for Allstar Weekend!

And to hear more from Coco Jones, check out the Radio Disney Website.

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