Interviews

Exclusive Interview: Pop Culturalist Chats with Chlo Subia

Pop singer-songwriter Chlo Subia is an artist on the rise. She’s been hard at work, putting the final touches on her upcoming EP, Fool’s Gold. The uplifting and personal collection reminds listeners that even through the tough times, there’s always a silver lining. That message can be heard through her new single, “Blessing at Night”. Pop Culturalist recently caught up with Chlo to chat about the EP, “Blessings at Night”, and her new music video.

PC: How did you discover your passion for music?
Chlo: I grew up singing in church. I, then, learned that singing allows you to relate to and affect an audience. I fell in love with vocalizing, harmonizing, and honoring arrangements.

PC: Who or what has had the biggest influence on your career?
Chlo: My biggest influence would be Whitney Houston. Her vocals, style, stage presence, and every aspect of her “brand” have been a great example. Sadly, Whitney’s tragic ending also taught me how vulnerable sharing feelings through songs can make you, and how isolating the music industry can become if you don’t surround yourself with the right people and team.

PC: Tell us about your new single, “Blessings at Night”. What inspired the track?
Chlo: “Blessings at Night” is a song based on advice given to me after a breakup. It’s about focusing on security, independence, fun, and coming to the realization that you don’t need any man, boo boo!

PC: “Blessings at Night” is a song off your upcoming EP, Fool’s Gold. What can you tease about the release?
Chlo: The EP is a super exciting and personal body of work. It’s a compilation of songs that take you through a path of discovering that even when you are sad, hurt, or in the slumps, there is always good—or “gold”—that comes out of it. It’s my idea of a playlist.

PC: Tell us about the music video for “Blessings at Night” and how the idea came about.
Chlo: The visual is a body of work that I’m so proud of. Alex Clark [director], one of my all-time favorite humans, has so much talent in creative concepts, choreography, and leading a team. She knows me very well. She’s someone who I trust completely and was able to sit down and run ideas with. Alex is a one-of-a-kind friend and creative that I will always want to be my go-to for concepts and making my visions a reality.

The visual has tons of symbolism and underlying meaning. Brandon Mo shot it in Super 8 in the High Desert on a crazy sheep ranch. Fairfax and Copenhagen met with us a few times to really get the vision, and they styled it so perfectly with incredible costumes that played into the alter reality concept. They are an amazing team to work with and are so creative. Troy Turner (Doll Maker Studio) and Akiko Russell took care of my hair and makeup. Troy has worked with me since the beginning and is so talented and loyal. Plus, his energy on set is the best. Akiko ran with the crazy makeup inspiration given to her and is the kindest! I got to be very involved in every aspect of the process and even edited the entire video. I am so proud of what we all created.

PC: If you had to pick one song off Fool’s Gold that best encompasses the EP, what would it be and why?
Chlo: I would say “Blondie” because it’s a song that has an R&B vibe, which I lean towards. The lyrics are transparent and show the disappointment and confusion I felt. It’s about moving forward after that and concentrating on the positives—one of my favorite records!

PC: You’ve experienced a lot of success already in your young career. Is there a particular moment that sticks out to you?
Chlo: Ahh, that’s so nice. Thank you so much! There’s so much I want to do as a singer-songwriter. I have to remind myself to stop and be proud of each blessing along the journey. It’s a constant struggle to remind myself to be grateful and present in all the small steps; you have to appreciate those moments. I’m super proud and humbled by the positive feedback of the release of “Blondie”. I love the song and loved seeing that people wanted to play, download, and add it to their playlists. It reinforces to me that I’m on the right path.

PC: What does the year hold for you as we look ahead to the rest of 2019?
Chlo: Live performances, making music, fall in love, and continue to grow and learn. I’m so thankful for music and the outlet to share feelings and connect with people.

Pop Culturalist Speed Round

PC: Guilty pleasure TV show?
Chlo: Gossip Girl

PC: Guilty pleasure movie?
Chlo: Endless Love

PC: Favorite book?
Chlo: I honestly hate reading, but I loved We Were Liars.

PC: Favorite play or musical?
Chlo: Phantom of the Opera forever!

PC: A band or artist that fans would be surprised to learn is on your playlist?
Chlo: Fleetwood Mac

PC: First album you bought?
Chlo: Taylor Swift’s self-titled album

PC: First concert you attended?
Chlo: Lady Gaga’s Born This Way Ball

PC: An album that changed your life and why?
Chlo: Lemonade by Beyoncé because it’s art. She’s transparent, proud, and kick ass. She’s a queen.

To keep up with Chlo, follow her on Twitter and Instagram, and pick up “Blessings at Night” on Amazon Music, iTunes, or stream it on Spotify.

Kevin

Kevin is a writer living in New York City. He is an enthusiast with an extensive movie collection, who enjoys attending numerous conventions throughout the year. Say hi on Twitter and Instagram!

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