Claire Vandiver was born in Nashville, Tennessee and raised by parents who were both musicians. Now living in Central Florida, Claire has spent over a decade honing her craft as a musician and songwriter. She’s previously released one EP and several singles recorded by multi-platinum producers ZK Productions in Atlanta, and is finding her own unique sound along the way.
Claire’s voice is equal parts ethereal and electrifying; edging towards cinematic with her ability to go from soft and melancholy to grungy and raw. By blending a wide array of influences ranging from indie rock, to modern pop, and a little flair of blues, she has crafted a unique sound that is truly fresh and all her own in the industry. Almost like an edgier Lana Del Rey for reference.
While most of the world was solemn in lockdown during the pandemic, Claire spent the past year co-producing and recording her latest batch of songs with NYC based composer/sound designer, Keller McDivitt.
Wall-of-sound guitars, hard-hitting bass, spacey synthesizers, and thunderous drums provide the backdrop for Claire’s soaring vocals on her latest upcoming EP, “…Even When it Hurts.” Here, Claire sings songs about passionate relationships, mental-health and codependency, and all the spontaneity and complexities of an ephemeral youth.
What’s your story as an artist?
Well I started singing at a young age. I was born in Nashville into a musical family and knew from the beginning I wanted to be a musician. When I was in high-school I started gigging and making demos and ever since then I haven’t stopped. Now I’m here and I’ve released my latest EP, Even When it Hurts. I really think I’ve found my sound.
What do you want your music to communicate?
I want it to communicate the complexities of the ups and downs of love and the trials you feel in life. I want my listeners to interpret the songs how they want and connect through their personal experiences.
What are some sources of inspiration for your storytelling?
Lately the past year or two I’ve been listening to Vlaf Holiday who’s an indie loft artist and that really impacted my latest batch of music. Also Sharon Van Etten and a culmination of my life experiences.
Who is an artist that you look up to more than others today?
I would have to say lately I’ve really loved Sharon Van Etten’s writing.
What’s the record or artist that made you realize you wanted to be an artist?
As a kid I really loved Cheryl Crow. I loved her songs and just thought they were catchy. My parents played a wide variety of music so it’s hard to pinpoint specific artists
Tell us about your latest release and how it came about
I started working on the album in Nashville with sound designer Keller mcdivitt and when covid hit we finished it in my home studio. It’s an amazing EP and it’s a new sound for me. I wanted to take things in a different direction. Spacey, moody, with a loft vibe
What inspires your sound?
Things that I go through in life. Different music I listen to daily. People I meet as well as connections I make.
What’s your favorite tune of yours?
Lately it’s my song “Buckle the fuck up”
Where are some things you really want to accomplish as an artist?
I would love to tour nationally. I’d love to work with Mark Ronson and find like minded people. Playing at Madison Square garden would be a dream.
Favorite lyric you ever wrote?
“Stabbing at each other just for fun. Coughing up blood”
Was there ever a moment when you felt like giving up?
Yes, I think everyone feels discouraged at one point or another, especially in this field. The key is to keep pushing forward
What is the best advice you’ve ever gotten?
To sing from your heart and listen to your intuition.
Where do you think the next game changer will be in the music industry and entertainment scene?
I think the industry is changing everyday. There are massive amounts of music being released on big platforms. There’s just so much music out there. Lots has changed. Music has become super accessible to release and listen to. In a sense it’s oversaturated.
