Claire Clarke
Talented young Aussie artist Claire Clarke has just launched her debut album Unhinged.
When you express yourself by writing better than any words you could ever speak, becoming a songwriter is the perfect way to communicate. Claire Clarke uses a pen and paper as an organic way of channeling her feelings.
Unhinged takes a more edgy approach than Claire's debut EP Alter Ego, think the spunk (and punk) of Avril Lavigne and Perth's own Suze DeMarchi meets th e intellectual intercourse of Alanis Morissette.
Claire has been lauded by the music industry for her unique rock/pop sound an distinct vocal style. Claire has also recently achieved the following amazing success in radio and TV.
Interview:
1. How did it feel to hear your song played all over the airwaves?
Surreal and amazing! It was so exciting, I was jumping up and down and cheering, then shushing everyone to hear it haha. Now when I hear it, it’s just a realisation of all the hard work that’s gone into the album.
2. Did you have any pre-conceived ideas about the music industry?
Not really; I’ve definitely got some well educated ideas now. You learn fast in this industry!
3. Do you write your own songs? What's your inspiration?
Yes. Inspiration comes to me from my immediate emotions. Anything from a phone call, to a kiss, to an argument! Something that sparks my imagination will have me writing pages and pages!
4. What music/artists do you listen to when you are not playing your own?
I love artists like John Mayer, James Blunt, Corinne Bailey Rae, Diana Krall. They are so honest and their voices tell stories. When I’m not doing my own music and rocking out on stage, I really like to chill out and this kind of music is just what the doctor ordered!
5. What's next? Tour/Album/Single?
My album Unhinged has just been released and is available in store now, so I will be promoting that. My next single is due out in May/June. I can’t wait! I’ve got a very special performance coming up at the RSPCA Million Paws Walk in Sydney on 18th May and I’m hoping to do some shows Australia wide in the second half of the year.
6. Was there a moment you contemplated throwing in the towel?
It certainly is a very frustrating industry, and sometimes things can get on top of you, and there have been moments when I couldn’t see the light at the end of the tunnel. But, it’s all very worth it and I can’t imagine myself doing anything different! Some days you do have lows; it just reminds you how good the highs are!
7. Do you prefer performing live or recording?
I love both equally! They are very different. Recording is such a personal, intimate experience, and it’s like being locked away for a couple of weeks by yourself with just your voice floating around in your ears. It’s amazing and so rewarding when you hear back the final takes. Live performance is just as mind blowing. I love getting on stage and rocking out with my band and the audience interaction is so much fun. I get such a buzz from doing live shows, it’s the best feeling!
8. What/who was your inspiration to go into the music industry?
My Dad passed away when I was 11 and I dedicated a song in his memory at my school. It was actually one of my teachers who suggested I start pursuing vocal coaching. And Chris, the founder of Bluestone Records, saw one of my school performances and started developing me as an artist and it all went from there. The drive to be in the industry really started when I began song writing when I was 15. That was the moment I knew this is what I wanted to do with my life.
9. What is the biggest challenge you have faced along the way to your musical success?
My age. Being fresh on the scene and establishing myself as a singer/songwriter at a young age is always challenging.
10. What's a typical day like?
Grumble out of bed. Breakfast. Shower. Go into the Bluestone Records offices. Run through admin stuff like Myspace/facebook/answering e-mail interviews and help out generally with things like signing posters and autographing CDs. Acoustic Rehearsal with band member or Band rehearsal. In the afternoons I generally focus on my vocal training, and practise my piano and guitar playing, then get into some song writing to top it off! In the evenings I either have a radio interview, a show, or I concentrate on getting the word out about my current news through chatting to fans on MySpace and my forums. Then.. SLEEP!
11. What has been your favourite part of becoming a music artist?
Meeting some really amazing people! It’s been so great to find likeminded souls along the way!
12. If you could collaborate with another artist, who would it be?
John Mayer or Alanis Morissette. Two amazing songwriters and completely unique artists.
13. Are you single? What do you look for in a partner?
Yes, What’s new! Well first off I look for someone who really likes me, I don’t want someone who is in it half-heartedly. I really like a guy who is passionate, has good morals, smart, edgy, streetwise, capable.... the list goes on, I’m pretty picky haha.
14. Do you have a website fans can visit?
Sure do.
www.myspace.com/claireclarke or
www.claireclarke.com On my MySpace I chat to all my fans and there’s heaps of cool stuff to look at and get involved in, I keep it updated with all my latest photos and blogs. On my website, you can get all the latest news, goss, where to see press, Merchandise and there is a terrific forum where you can sign up and chat to other fans and become a Street team member where you can help spread the word and earn points to get lots of FREE prizes!
15. Can you tell us 5 things required for a happy healthy & enjoyable life?
Family, Pets, Good book, comfy bed, HOT guy!
16. What message would you like to say to your fans?
A big thank you for all your ongoing support! You really make what I do worthwhile; being able to share my music with you is my favourite thing!
60 Second Quiz
Full Name: Claire Louise Clarke
Nickname(s): Claireabelle
Star Sign: Pisces
Music Talent: Singing and song writing
Favorite Food: Italian .. Yum!
Favorite Film: Romeo & Juliet (Baz Luhrmann)
Favorite Actor: Leonardo DiCaprio and Johnny Depp (Of Course!)
Pet: Cat *meow*
Describe yourself in 3 words: crazy, dynamic, fun-loving
Best Feature: eyes
Worst Feature: Bony elbows
Person You Would Most Like to Meet: Madonna
Hobbies/Interests: Watching chick flicks and reading books
First Job: McDonalds front service!
Are you a Pub, Bar or Club kind: Bar girl
What Can You Never Leave Home Without: My phone!
What is the first thing you think of when you wake up in the morning: my weird dreams!
