My favorite memory of Maggie Rogers from our time at New York University was a conversation we had about musicians. I could tell she was intuitively creative and intensely intelligent, and when I searched her music online a few days later, I was blown away by the sound. From the very beginning, her talent sent chills down your spine.

Our strongest bond was forged toward the end of college, when both our careers were taking off at dizzying speed. The most challenging obstacle of newfound success is navigating creative integrity in the early stages of your career. I am continuously impressed by Maggie’s ability to maintain authentic artistry within the pop-music sphere. She created her own sound, and I know she had to fight for it.

I admire her for reaching this point in her career without sacrificing her vision. She’s not only an exceptional singer, she’s also an exceptional artist, and it shows.

Mendes is an actor who stars on Riverdale