Combining soft vocals and synth-touched dreamy atmosphere, lo-fi artist Clairo delivers a collection of captivating romantic tunes that make us swoon
If you’ve been following the bedroom pop scene – essentially home-recorded music by artists whose musical style lean loosely towards the dreamy lo-fi label – such as Pizzagirl and Mellow Fellow, you’re probably familiar with the lo-fi darling Clairo. We chatted with her about her musical influences and choosing between school and music – let’s find out more.
An interview with Clairo
Rising to fame since her release Pretty Girl went viral on YouTube – garnering over 23 million views – Clairo has quickly become one of the most beloved lo-fi artists on the internet. In May, 2018, Clairo released her debut EP Diary 001, including low-key yet mesmerising tracks like Flaming Hot Cheetos and 4EVER after signing to Fader Magazine’s in-house label. A blend of dreamy croons and melody-driven beats, Clairo is definitely a rising indie star to lookout for in 2020.
How do you feel about rising to prominence after your video for Pretty Girl went viral?
2018 was the best year of my life. It was so intense in every way possible. It was a big year for me to learn how to perform, record, and handle everything that happened to me in such a short time. I definitely feel like I have grown positively in the last year and I want to continue to do so.
Did you start playing music at a young age? When did that musical instinct start kicking in?
I started playing instruments pretty early. The first and only instrument I ever properly learned was the saxophone in fourth grade. Everything else I’ve kind of taught myself over the course of a few years.
Who is your biggest musical influence?
I’d say my musical influences are a mixture between my mom and dad’s musical taste. My dad introduced me to soul music like Al Green, Brenton Wood, Billy Paul, etc. My mom introduced me to alternative music like Cocteau Twins, Trashcan Sinatras, The The, Public Image Ltd, etc. I would say that I fall somewhere in between.
So I’ve read that you’re taking some time off from school to focus on music at the moment, was it hard for you to make that decision?
It was hard to leave school. I’m so excited about pursuing music, but I sometimes miss the structure of school. I also miss my friends a lot. Regardless, I know that I made the right decision at the right time. I will definitely go back to school at some point soon.
You’ve collaborated with other bedroom pop artists like Cuco and Mellow Fellow, who else do you wish to work with?
I’d really love to collaborate with Christine and the Queens. I love their music so much.
Keep up-to-date with Clairo.
