Adassa the Voice of Encanto: What if the Detour is the Path

Send us Fan MailDisney magic rarely shows you the part where the dream takes an unplanned detour. Our guest, Adassa, the Golden Globe, Oscar, and Grammy-winning artist who voiced Dolores in Disney’s Encanto, tells the full behind-the-scenes story: the 20-plus years of sacrifice, the moves and setbacks, and the mindset that kept her working like the promise was still real even when life said otherwise.  We talk about what it felt like to watch The Little Mermaid and suddenly see a future, how generational dreams shaped her own drive, and why representation matters when kids are trying to name their gifts. Then the Encanto moment hits with a twist: a YouTube video with roughly 300 views sparks Disney’s interest, her audition lands in spam, and one bold phone call keeps the opportunity alive. If you’ve ever wondered how casting, timing, and preparation really collide, you’ll love this part.  The heart of the conversation is far deeper than fame. Adassa opens up about battling paralysis during COVID, confronting the terrifying loss of her voice and mobility, and relearning a core truth: our value is not our output. We also get into faith and grace, protecting your principles when the industry offers money and visibility, “stepping into purpose” when the future feels like a blind box, and why being willing matters more than being perfect.  Love Keeps Showing Up and her album, Drink It Up are a must. Listen to her music while reading her memoir and be inspired. Subscribe, share this with a friend who’s in a hard season, and leave a review to help more people find the show. What detour are you trying to make sense of right now?Support the show