Nicole Scherzinger: Embracing Her Asian Heritage and Making an Impact in the Entertainment Industry
Nicole Scherzinger is an American singer, songwriter, dancer, actress, and television personality. She is best known as the lead singer of the Pussycat Dolls, a popular girl group that dominated the music scene in the early 2000s. However, what many people may not know about Scherzinger is that she has a rich and diverse heritage, with her father being of Filipino descent and her mother of Hawaiian, Ukrainian and Russian descent. In this article, we will delve deeper into Nicole Scherzinger’s Asian heritage and explore how it has influenced her life and career.
Early Life and Family Background
Nicole Scherzinger was born on June 29, 1978, in Honolulu, Hawaii. Her father, Alfonso Valiente, is a Filipino, and her mother, Rosemary Elikolani, is of Hawaiian, Ukrainian and Russian ancestry. Scherzinger’s parents met while her father was stationed in Hawaii with the US Army. The family later moved to Louisville, Kentucky, where Scherzinger grew up.
Growing up, Scherzinger was exposed to both her Filipino and Hawaiian heritage. Her father taught her traditional Filipino dances, and she often visited her grandmother in the Philippines. She also learned to play the ukulele, a traditional Hawaiian instrument, from her mother.
Music Career
Scherzinger’s music career began in the late 1990s when she auditioned for a girl group called Eden’s Crush. The group was formed through the reality television show Popstars, and Scherzinger was selected as one of the members. However, the group disbanded in 2002 after releasing only one album.
In 2003, Scherzinger joined the Pussycat Dolls, a burlesque-inspired girl group. The group’s debut album, “PCD,” was released in 2005 and featured the hit singles “Don’t Cha” and “Stickwitu.” The album was a commercial success, selling over nine million copies worldwide.
Scherzinger’s success with the Pussycat Dolls led to a successful solo career. In 2010, she released her debut album, “Killer Love,” which featured the hit singles “Poison” and “Don’t Hold Your Breath.” The album was a commercial success in the UK and Europe, peaking at number eight on the UK Albums Chart.
Scherzinger has also been a judge on several reality television shows, including The X Factor and Australia’s Got Talent. In 2017, she played the role of Grizabella in the West End revival of the musical Cats.
Influence of Asian Heritage on Scherzinger’s Career
Scherzinger has often spoken about the influence of her Filipino heritage on her music and career. In an interview with The Philippine Star, she said, “My Filipino heritage has definitely had a big impact on my life and career. It’s something I’m very proud of, and it’s helped shape who I am today.”
One example of Scherzinger’s Filipino heritage in her music is her 2011 single “Right There,” which features a rap verse by 50 Cent. The song’s music video also features traditional Filipino dances and costumes.
Scherzinger has also used her platform to raise awareness of issues affecting the Filipino community. In 2013, she visited the Philippines as part of a United Nations campaign to raise awareness of the effects of climate change on the country.
Scherzinger has also spoken about the importance of diversity and representation in the entertainment industry. In an interview with The Guardian, she said, “I’ve always been an advocate for diversity and inclusivity, and I think it’s important to have representation from all different backgrounds in the entertainment industry. We need to see more people of color and different cultures represented in film, TV, and music.”
Scherzinger has also been involved in philanthropic work, particularly in her father’s home country of the Philippines. In 2012, she performed a benefit concert in Manila to raise funds for the victims of Typhoon Haiyan. She also supports several charitable organizations, including UNICEF and the Race to Erase MS Foundation.
In conclusion, Nicole Scherzinger’s Asian heritage has played a significant role in her life and career. She has used her platform to raise awareness of issues affecting the Filipino community and promote diversity and inclusivity in the entertainment industry. Her music has also incorporated elements of her Filipino heritage, showcasing the richness and diversity of Asian culture. As she continues to make an impact in the entertainment industry, Nicole Scherzinger serves as a role model for those who are proud of their cultural heritage and want to use their platform to make a positive difference in the world.
