Sep 25 2023
From Fame to Rock Bottom to Self-Respect & Love: Eva Avila's Sobriety Journey
Happy Monday Everyone!
Today we're chatting with Eva Avila, a talented singer hailing from Canada who has been captivating audiences with her voice since she could speak. At the age of 19 in 2006, Eva auditioned for the fourth season of Canadian Idol on CTV and emerged as the winner, propelling her into the spotlight. This achievement paved the way for two successful albums with Sony BMG: "Somewhere Else" (2006), certified GOLD and featuring a song produced by Cyndi Lauper, and "Give Me The Music" (2009), recorded in Los Angeles and showcasing Eva's songwriting talent.
Eva's journey continued with four chart-topping radio singles, including a Platinum hit in Canada and a Juno Award nomination. She became the face of renowned brands like Maybelline NY, Spring Shoes, and Sony Electronics. A pinnacle moment arrived when Eva was selected as the opening act for Beyoncé during her 2009 Canadian tour, "I Am... Sasha Fierce." Eva also left a lasting impression by performing at the closing ceremonies of the Vancouver Olympics in 2010 and drawing a crowd of over 50,000 at her 90-minute solo show during the Gatineau hot air balloon festival.
Eva’s versatility extends to TV, film, and commercials, including roles in "The Bold Type" and an upcoming role in the film "Autumn and the Last Jaguar" slated for early 2024. We could add more of her accolades but you get the picture!
In today’s episode, Eva walks us through her early love of music and how it evolved into a successful career, particularly as she rose to fame following her win on Canadian Idol and the whirlwind that followed. Eva opens up to us about the circumstances that led to the change in her relationship with alcohol, how she regained control of her life and became sober, and the personal growth she has since achieved. She is a strong advocate for mental health and sobriety and speaks openly and candidly about these topics on social media.
Eva is now bringing her phenomenal singing talent to Brit Floyd, a Pink Floyd tribute band, that has been touring in the US and Canada, with plans to tour Europe and the UK in the autumn of 2024.
To keep up with Eva's incredible journey, follow her on Instagram: @evaavilaofficial
Resources:
SMART RecoveryAlcoholics AnonymousAl-Anon for Familys and Friends of AlcoholicsParents of Addicted Loved Ones
Eva's favourite sobriety Instagram accounts:
@happiestsober
@findingmyselfsober
@1000hoursdry
@kelz_living_well
@bethbowen_
@youdonthavetodrink
@thisnakedmind
@recoveryisthenewblack
@theretiredpartygirl
@holly
@mommydoesnotneedwine
@sobermomsquad
@sober.poweredA
Eva's recommended books about alcohol addiction and recovery:
The Unexpected joy of being sober (Catherine Gray)Sunshine warm sober (Catherine Gray)This naked mind (Annie Grace)Quit like a woman (Holly Whitaker) Drinking… a love story (Caroline Knapp)
Have some thoughts on the episode that you want to share? Hit us up on Insta @thebigvagenergypod
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Thank you for listening and keep channeling that Big Vag Energy!