Aly & AJ Michalka on Their Disney Channel Legacy, Joining WHITE LOTUS & New Music | Just Trish 254

Aly & AJ's 2007 hit 'Potential Breakup Song' unexpectedly went viral on TikTok in 2020, leading them to join the platform and engage with a new generation of fans. This digital phenomenon reignited interest in their music and demonstrated the impact of adapting to new media trends for career longevity.

Ally and AJ explain that friends alerted them to the song's virality on TikTok in 2020, prompting them to create their own TikTok account and participate in the trend. They note the platform's charm lies in its raw, funny, and real content, which they embrace.

The sisters actively pursue both music and acting, with AJ recently securing a role in 'White Lotus' season 3. They discuss the differing gratifications: music offers instant, real-time connection with fans, while acting involves a delayed and less controlled outcome, often leading actors to pursue producing or directing for more creative control.

AJ states, 'the music is really where it's at for me, like being on stage live every night playing in front of fans. It's so much fun. The instant gratification of that and and that love and energy you receive in real time.' Ally adds that actors are 'at the mercy of how they roll out the film' and 'have no control over' the final edit or marketing.

Aly & AJ became active advocates for gun reform after surviving a mass shooting in Sacramento in 2022. They now work with organizations like March 4th, lobbying politicians and raising money during their concerts to push for legislation like the reinstatement of the assault weapons ban and restrictions on ghost guns.

AJ explains, 'the reason why we got as active as we are now in this space... is because we both survived a mass shooting out on tour back in 2022 in Sacramento.' Ally adds that their number one goal is 'to reinstate the assault weapons ban' and restrict 'easy access to guns'. They discuss sharing their story with California Democrats like Adam Schiff and Mike Thompson.

Ally Michalka manages to tour with her young son, Jack, by creating a structured schedule and relying on a 'village' of support, including a nanny and their band/crew. She notes that touring with a pre-walking baby was easier, but they adapt to the challenges of a toddler on the road.

Ally explains, 'it works with like a great little village that we have.' They have a nanny for 4 PM to midnight, and she, AJ, and her husband manage Jack before that. She jokes that 'a newborn baby on tour sounds great' compared to a walking toddler.