Musgrave’s Chloe rides the wave of success

CHLOE Clark the bubbly singer, songwriter and pianist started her now flourishing career in a band with friends when she was just 11-years-old, in Weenen where she grew up. Today, there is nothing small town about the rising star who has become one of the country’s top female performers.

Durban is now home to the young songstress who launched her debut four-track EP, In Between in April, and who shot to fame on The Voice SA.

“I love Durban it is home and I always feel happy to be home after some travel,” the self-confessed “coffee-holic” said.

After recently returning home from a ‘sabbatical holiday’ in Bali, Hong Kong and South Korea, Chole chatted to Berea Mail,from her Musgrave apartment. “It has been such a blessed and amazing year, but I needed a break to clear my head and figure out my next step. I am where I want to be for now, but feel I’m on the cusp of something- waiting for a new challenge,” she said.

Chloe said the highlight of her year was having a successful sold out album launch on the roof of the Roma Revolving Restaurant. “It was amazing to see all my sweat and blood come together and to watch how people actually enjoyed themselves. A close second would have to be singing at the Botanical Gardens Music at the Lake on Mothers Day, with the KZNPO and Arno Carstens.”

Chloe says Women’s Day and the whole of August is an opportunity, “to honour and show some love for the women of South Africa. I think it is a great day just to remind people how important the women in our country are and how much they actually do for society.”

Being a women in the music industry is particularly tricky, she admitted. “Having to deal with horrible comments from men who have had a few too many pints, to the personal sacrifices that you have to make to keep following your dream. I really admire the women who have stayed true to themselves.””

The advice she gives to young girls and women is to “find out what makes you happy and follow your dreams. Don’t settle for second best or succumb to pressure to conform to society’s expectations.”

When not busy performing, rehearsing or teaching music, she can be found drinking copious amounts of coffee! “One of my favourite places has to be Bean Green coffee shop or Glenwood bakery in Glenwood. Alternatively on Durban’s magical beautiful days I love to hang out on the promenade and take in the glorious ocean, Bike and Bean and Circus Circus are the most ideal spots for such occasions!

Chloe Clark will be performing at venues around Durban this August, catch her close to home at The Jazzy Rainbow on Friday, 12 August with former The Voice finalist Lana Crowser. Visit www.chloeclark.co.za for more information and gigs.

Five questions with Chloe

What album is currently in your CD player – and why?

My most played Album would have to be Billie Holiday. She is the most inspirational jazz vocalist who actually inspired me to study jazz, I love her phrasing and her soul when interpreting songs.

What is your favourite kind of meal? And least favourite?

My favourite meal would have to be a ‘homey meal’ One that is rich with delicious ingredients and has to then be baked for a while! Anything ‘homey’ really! If I had to be unhealthy… then any type of biscuits! I cannot resist!

How do you keep fit?

The Durban promenade is the best kind of place to have a trot! I also have a group of fantastic mates who all get together once or twice a week to attempt a bootcamp! But anything ‘outdoor’ normally does the trick. Hiking and trail runs are up there on my list of keeping active.

What are your pet peeves (or things that irritate you)?

Inconsistency. Not keeping your word. Exclusivity.

The funniest thing that ever happened to you on stage?

Shucks! There have been so many moments! From quick outfits changes going wrong, to tripping ripping my stockings in the middle of a song while pretending nothing happened!

Three things about yourself that most people don’t know (even if they are really trivial)?

Hmmm… My full name is actually Chloe-ann. I don’t really enjoy animation movies. I have a plate in my left hand from a pillow fight gone wrong.