In an exclusive interview, Carmit Bachar shares her plans for a renewed release of her single “Keep On Smiling,” while also discussing her long-term collaboration with the charity Operation Smile and reflecting on the recent cancellation of the Pussycat Dolls’ U.S. tour. The singer, known for her role as one of the original members of the Pussycat Dolls, is using her platform to inspire and uplift others, particularly those impacted by cleft lip and cleft palate.
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Bachar, who has been an advocate for cleft care through Operation Smile for nearly twenty years, draws from her personal experiences to fuel her work. Born with a cleft lip and palate herself, she underwent several surgeries in her youth but faced challenges such as bullying and self-esteem issues during her childhood. These experiences have inspired her to help others access the resources they need for treatment.
Reflecting on her time with the charity, she explained, “I always say it’s amazing being a pop star, but what else are you doing? What are you giving back? This is my place to share my story and inspire other people.” With the re-release of “Keep On Smiling,” Bachar aims to reach a wider audience and encourage those facing similar challenges to embrace their journeys.
Looking back at her career, Bachar’s trajectory is impressive. Beyond the Pussycat Dolls, her resume includes touring with major artists like Ricky Martin and Janet Jackson, and performing in music videos for legendary figures such as Michael Jackson and Beyoncé. Despite her glamorous life in the spotlight, she recalls the difficulties she faced growing up due to her condition. “It was a crash course in life,” she said about coping with the public’s scrutiny and the harsh realities of childhood bullying.
Bachar’s journey in the entertainment industry was marked by resilience. While she worked hard to hone her skills in dance and performance, she also navigated the complexities of her condition, which included multiple surgeries that affected her confidence. She credits her success largely to the support of her parents, who were both in the industry and encouraged her to pursue her passions.
She expressed nostalgia for her early days dancing with Ricky Martin, stating that the experience held a special place in her heart, even more so than her time with the Dolls. “Whether you were on stage or offstage, you were on the side of the stage cheering everybody on every night,” she reminisced, highlighting the camaraderie and joy of those tours.
Bachar’s return to music comes at a pivotal moment. The re-recording of “Keep On Smiling” serves not only as an anthem for Operation Smile but also as a personal milestone as she embarks on a new chapter in her solo career. The track has been updated with a fresh acoustic vibe, making it resonate anew with fans. “I feel like everything is in alignment and connected again for me,” she remarked, radiating enthusiasm for what lies ahead.
The recent cancellation of the Pussycat Dolls’ U.S. tour has led to mixed emotions for Bachar. She spoke of her regrets about not being asked to rejoin the group but added that she wishes her former bandmates well as they prepare for their European dates. “Life has been a trip lately, and to be in this moment, I feel like I’m where I’m meant to be,” she reflected, indicating that she has found peace despite the upheaval.
As she continues to blend her passion for music with her advocacy, Bachar also is working on a long-awaited memoir that encapsulates her experiences over the last three decades. “It’s absolutely in the works. I’ve been working on it for a decade,” she stated, hinting that her story is still unfolding.
With her dedicated approach to advocacy and music, Carmit Bachar is not only shining a light on issues related to cleft lip and palate but also continuing to inspire with her personal narrative. Her commitment to using her voice and experiences for good underscores the importance of resilience and compassion in both the music industry and the wider world. As she prepares to release new music, it seems clear that Bachar’s journey is just beginning, with many stories yet to be told.