New York-based singer songwriter Clara Hannigan has released the music video for her single, Parentheses. We asked her the BIG questions . . .
Originally from Maine, Clara grew up surrounded by music, performing from a young age and drawing inspiration from jazz and piano legends such as James Booker, Ray Charles, and Fats Waller.
"It's really important for me to be intentional with each project that I do as it represents me, my life, and my journey as an artist," she says.
"Self-expression is a gift that's not lost on me, and I'm always hungry to create more, explore new genres, and continue to grow. I want to stay as authentic as possible, and I think people can tell when someone is being genuine and earnest.
"Music is something where we can share experiences and find community, it makes us feel less alone. When I make music and express myself, it also helps me feel more connected to the world around me."
Tell us three things about yourself . . .
I'm originally from a small (and beautiful) coastal town in Maine. While I love the electric energy of the city, Maine is a source of peace for me - the first thing I do when I get home is breathe in the fresh air, there's nothing like it. I was a wedding singer in NYC and still do some weddings from time to time - it's so much fun and it's great experience for performing! I rescued a dog last year! She's a sweetheart, but also incredibly goofy - I can always look to her for comic relief.
How would you describe your music?
I would say my music is a mix of pop, jazz, maybe a little R&B as well. That being said, I really try to avoid being in just one genre as it can be really limiting. I've been told my music is great to listen to on a lazy Sunday morning, I've also been told people listen to my music when they're in their feelings. So, I think it resonates with people in multiple ways depending on the vibe, if they're listening to the music or the lyrics more, etc.
Who are your musical inspirations?
I would say Amy Winehouse, Janis Joplin, Billie Holiday, Erykah Badu, and Lauryn Hill are my top five. I'm also really loving Chappell Roan, Doechii and Flo Milli as well. There's a level of genuine and uninhibited sense of self that goes into what they do. They create art, they captivate you, they express themselves in the truest way. That's the kind of artist that I'd like to be.
What was the first gig you ever went to?
My dad had a band when I was growing up, so the first gig I can remember doing was at a bar - I remember they had to get clearance from the owners to let me in since I was only 13 or 14 years old. The first gig I ever went to in New York was for a wedding in Brooklyn - I only knew the songs I was told to learn and I had to learn the choreography onstage, I didn't even have time to be nervous because I was so focused on keeping up with everyone else in the band.
What was the first record you ever bought?
I think it was either Rubber Soul by the Beatles or Metamorphosis by Hilary Duff (I was obsessed with her as a kid). The first vinyl record I got was Born to Die by Lana Del Rey.
What's your favourite song right now?
So hard to pick just one! If I'm listening to older music, I would say Lujon by Henry Mancini or In A Sentimental Mood by Duke Ellington and John Coltrane. For current music, I'm a big fan of Vent by NOIT, 365 by Charli XCX or El Azul by Junior H/Peso Pluma. Clearly my music taste is a little all over the place!
Favourite lyric of all time?
"Boy you fill my head with pieces of a song I can't get out" - Bloom by The Paper Kites.
If you could only listen to one song for the rest of your life, what would it be?
This is an impossible question to answer, oh my gosh! I would say Blue Moon by Billie Holiday or You Sent Me Flying by Amy Winehouse.
Where can people find your music/more information?
I'm Clara Hannigan on all streaming platforms. For more info regarding upcoming releases and shows, check out my Instagram (@clara_hann) or my website.
Alan Corr
Disclaimer: The copyright of this article belongs to the original author. Reposting this article is solely for the purpose of information dissemination and does not constitute any investment advice. If there is any infringement, please contact us immediately. We will make corrections or deletions as necessary. Thank you.
