From Disney to DIY Pop Star: Kylie Cantrall’s Self-Funded Vision
The synergy of cinema and music is what makes Cantrall so distinct. The artist revealed how she manages to self-fund her music video production.
Kylie Cantrall spent a full hour on the Zach Sang Show breaking down how music videos became her favorite way to express herself creatively.
Growing up as a dancer with dreams of being a Disney actress, she built a lane where she could stand out—blending pop music with dynamic choreography that feels personal and visually bold.
She’s been around the music industry since she was ten, soaking up everything behind the scenes. But even early on, she knew she wanted more than just being part of someone else’s machine—she wanted the freedom to create without the limitations that often come with major labels.
“Labels don’t see videos as valuable as they used to,” she told Sang.
That realization played into her decision to return to Disney—it wasn’t just about the screen time. It was about setting herself up to independently fund her music videos, which she now produces entirely on her own. The result: full creative control over what she sings, how she dances, and how it’s all presented.
“There’s this stigma around Disney kids who also do music, like you can’t do both at the same time,” she said. “People say, ‘Wait till your contract is over.’ But why can’t I be taken seriously as a pop artist and still be doing Descendants?”
Cantrall’s work ethic was forged early. She spent up to seven hours a day in the studio as a kid, which she credits for giving her the resilience to juggle an acting career and a music career at once. Long hours don’t scare her—they’re the norm.
“Dance is just good for life,” she added. “For confidence, for knowing your body, for posing. If you’re an artist—get your butt in a dance class. It helps with everything.”
At just 20, she’s already accomplished plenty. But one of her recent highlights had nothing to do with the industry: going out in Vancouver for the first time (the drinking age is 19) and hearing Goodie Bag play in a real club.
A small but symbolic win for someone who’s been in the game for years—but is now finally calling the shots.