John Otto has lived a life so far that many of us can only dream of. He is one of the founding members of the iconic band Limp Bizkit, and continues to this day to travel the world doing what he loves most: rocking out on the drums and entertaining millions (and shortly will be teaching all those through a music school he is creating). His 11-year-old daughter Ava Otto – while not even yet a teenager – has started her path to living out her dreams as well. While John is rocking out, Ava is traveling around the United States as well, dancing, modeling and being a strong advocate for various charities to help people her age. Jointly, the father-daughter duo also recently appeared on the CBS series, Come Dance With Me.
Whether solo or together, the Otto family is showing Americans that no matter what, following your passions and lifting up others in a positive way through whatever it is you do, is the true American way!
The duo spoke to us exclusively about their lives together and being proud Americans.
1. Why are you both proud to be American?
We’re proud to be Americans because we believe in everyone’s fundamental right to freedom. Freedom to express our thoughts, pursue our dreams and to create the life we choose to live.
2. Ava, you have found your passion in dance, modeling and helping others. Why is giving back and being able to express yourself through various art-forms so important to you?
Giving back is incredibly important to me because I believe in the importance of lifting up others. I also feel grateful for the support I’ve been given in my life. I want to pay that forward and help other people pursue their dreams.
3. John: How does it feel to be a part of an iconic American music group, and how has it felt seeing the fans rock out with you on tour after all these years since you first started?
I’m incredibly grateful for my band and our fans. We’ve been making music together for over 20 years which is a blessing in itself, but the love and support our fans give us is the best reward. During this last American tour, we saw old and new Bizkit fans from all walks of life. I met some people who traveled from as far as Germany and Spain to watch us play. It’s amazing to see generations of people who enjoy our music!
4. What’s next for you both in 2022?
John: We’re heading to Europe for another tour. After I return from that I plan to have some quality time with my family and get back to work on my music school.
Ava: I’m looking forward to more training in dancing, acting and singing. I’m beginning to choreograph more pieces for myself and I want to push myself to do more of that. I’m also reading for more theatrical roles which is very exciting! I also have some fun plans for my non-profit Passion Project X.
5. And finally, Ava, leave us off with some advice for other young Americans trying to “make it” in today’s society in whatever they are pursuing?
If you want to be successful, set goals, stay focused on how you can achieve those goals and put in the work you’ll need to achieve them. The beauty of being an American is the freedom to dream big and become whomever or whatever we want!
