Imagine sharing the court with U.S. Olympic Women’s Basketball Team gold medalists Breanna Stewart and Sabrina Ionescu. Former American Idol contestant-turned-Roadrunner Evie Higgins ’27 knows what it’s like. Higgins sang the National Anthem at Game 1 of the WNBA playoffs when the New York Liberty hosted the Atlanta Dream at The Barclays on September 22.  

Get to Know Evie Higgins ’27

How did singing at a WNBA game come about?

I sang for the New York Liberty and the Connecticut Sun in the past. I started doing musical theater at a young age and started singing anthems at 8 years old for the Rockland Boulders and the G-League Westchester Knicks and worked my way up. Along with that, I am a recording artist and former contestant on Season 21 of American Idol. 

What was it like to sing the National Anthem at a WNBA game?

It was a great experience to sing at the game. It was a little more hectic because it was a playoff game, but it was super cool. Also, there were a lot of famous people at the game. For example, the artist HER was there, and I wish I had gotten the chance to meet her. The venue itself is so huge it fits 19,000 people, so the echo while singing made it a bit more difficult compared to other venues. Overall, a great experience and it was a good game too, they won! 

As a music student, how has Ramapo College prepared you for this moment?

My professors have supported me and are glad to hear about my ventures outside of school. As a music industry major, it is useful to know all of the behind-the-scenes workings of the business to have a better grasp on my career as a performer. Being a music industry major at Ramapo has allowed me to pursue my passion for singing while learning about the other important aspects of the business. It has also provided me with valuable information and techniques that I can use for the next time I release a song. Along with this, the community at Ramapo is very supportive, and I’m looking forward to releasing more music and learning more from my professors and peers. 

What are your career plans for life after Ramapo?

My career plans for life after RCNJ would be to land a job working for a major record label in marketing or A&R, but my true passion is to pursue a career as a recording artist. I’m also interested in session singing, and being a background singer for larger artists. 

What was your favorite part about the experience?

My favorite part of the experience was actually after I sang. I was waiting in line to get tacos, and this little girl came up to me with her mom and asked me if I was the girl who sang the national anthem. When I told her I was, she told me that I did a great job, that it was so cool to meet me, and gave me a hug. It was the most adorable thing ever and reminded me why I love doing this. 

What advice do you have for fellow aspiring Roadrunners looking to have these singing/performance opportunities?

For fellow aspiring singers and performers, I’d tell them to “do it scared.” Don’t let your thoughts of what other people may think or the questioning of your abilities stop you from doing something you love. Anyone who is trying to pursue a career in the arts knows what it’s like for people to not believe in you or take you seriously, but don’t let these doubts stop you from reaching your full potential. Also, putting yourself out there and networking are super important for anyone looking for singing and performing opportunities.

What’s next?

Up next for me, I’m working on more original music to be released. My debut single, “unwanted” is out on all streaming platforms, but I have much more music that I want to share. Also, I’ll be doing more performances and gigs that I post about on my Instagram @eviehigginsmusic.