
Who to Watch: Queeva
The 14-year-old songbird is on the cusp of a country music breakout.
LIVES IN: Glenview. AGE: 14. CLAIM TO FAME: After winning an International Modeling & Talent Association singing competition in L.A. at just 7 years old, Queeva was noticed by an executive who introduced her to acclaimed Nashville country music producer Jamie O’Neal. Under O’Neal’s tutelage, Queeva is now going big-time with the release of her Spotify-endorsed first single “Live Like a Song,” with a full album to follow. IRISH ROOTS, COUNTRY HEART: Queeva is one of six children and her parents were raised in Ireland, where she returns every summer for an extended vacation. A love of Gaelic language and music is the core of her clan, yet Queeva has long found herself drawn to country twang. “I listened to Dolly Parton and Gretchen Wilson a lot growing up,” she says. “By the time I was 3 years old, I knew complete lyrics to songs. My favorite was Dolly’s ‘Coat of Many Colors.’” DESIRE TO INSPIRE: “I realized that these singers were writing their own music, and I had my own message to share,” she says, adding that she was quick to pick up the guitar and start coming up with melodies. Queeva’s lyrics are centered on themes of empowerment and positivity and are relatable to kids her age. “My first single is about staying true who you really are and not being a follower. I just hope my music makes people smile and feel happy inside,” she says. STAYING GROUNDED: Queeva just started her freshman year at Glenbrook South, where she’s just one of the gang, going to classes and participating in an extracurricular student-bonding organization called Peer Group. “I’m starting to make a lot of new friends. It’s cool to just be yourself at school, even if you have this career you’re working at. The kids don’t treat me any differently, and I love that.” STYLE SWAP: At school, Queeva is “casual and chill,” usually in jeans and a top. “But I get really dressy for performing,” she says, citing an obsession with jumpsuits and flowy pants. PRECIOUS FREE TIME: A former gymnast and volleyball player, Queeva now loves any type of fun in the sun, especially swimming and boating. She’s also a big fan of Six Flags Great America. IN 10 YEARS: If all goes according to plan you’ll see Queeva touring around the world. “I’d love to keep doing what I’m doing, but for even more people. I want them to listen and be inspired.”
Look out for Queeva’s new single, “Stand Out,” coming soon to Spotify. Find out more at Queevamusic.com.