Chris Grey opens up about his creative process, the cinematic inspiration behind 'The Castle Never Falls', and how personal experiences and unique sounds shaped his debut album.
a time when the music scene is dominated by quick hits and fleeting trends, Chris Grey is taking a different approach. The Canadian artist’s debut album, The Castle Never Falls, isn’t just something you listen to—it’s something you experience. Dark, cinematic, and deeply emotional, this album pulls you into its world, one that Chris has carefully built layer by layer. In this exclusive interview with PopFiltr, Chris opens up about his journey, the making of The Castle Never Falls, and the personal experiences that have shaped his sound.
For Chris, the connection to music wasn’t just a passing childhood phase—it’s been a constant in his life. “Honestly, it goes back farther than I can even really remember,” he says with a smile. “Music always called to me, even as a kid.” But it wasn’t just any music that drew him in. His first musical obsession? Live Aid. “When I was five, my parents got me the Live Aid DVD. I’d watch the whole concert on loop, especially Ozzy Osbourne’s and Queen’s performances. I was obsessed. Every night, I’d rewatch Ozzy’s performance,” he recalls, laughing at the memory.
That early love for rock set the stage for what was to come, and by the time he was 12, Chris was already learning to produce his own music. “At that time, I was really into EDM. I had all these ideas in my head, but I didn’t know how to get them out,” he explains. Learning how to produce changed everything for him. “That’s when I could finally start shaping the sound I wanted.”
But it wasn’t until Chris heard The Weeknd’s Wicked Games, at the age of 13, that his musical path really started to take shape “I listened to it five times in a row right after. The Weeknd’s sound just gripped me,” he recalls. “That’s when I started to really dive into darker, moodier music. That song completely changed the way I thought about sound.”
As Chris began to develop his sound, the challenges of being an indie artist hit hard. “It’s a lonely journey sometimes, especially as an indie artist. You’re making all the decisions on your own, and that can feel scary,” he admits. Signing with Rebellion Records changed that. “Since working with Rebellion Records, I have people around me to bounce ideas off of. It’s made the journey feel less isolating. The ups and downs of this industry can be intense, but it’s nice to have people to celebrate the highs and support you through the lows.”
The conversation naturally turned to Chris’s debut album The Castle Never Falls, an ambitious project, started with a trip to London. It was there that Chris saw Phantom of the Opera for the first time—and it left a huge impact. “It blew me away! I left so inspired,” he says. “I already had some songs, but I was trying to tie them together with a story. Once I imagined an orchestra playing one of my songs in a castle—it all just clicked."
The sweeping organs and orchestral elements that define tracks like Sick and Twisted, Haunted, and The Castle are direct nods to the theatricality of Phantom of the Opera. “You can hear the influence throughout the album, especially with the organs and the dramatic build-ups,” he explains.
The album clocks in at 42 minutes, but it wasn’t always meant to be that long. “It started at around 30 minutes, but I kept adding more,” he laughs. “I’d listen to it on long drives, make notes, and tweak it. Then, a month before release, I made I Got You, and that’s when it finally felt finished.”
A cornerstone of the conversation is the storyline. Chris repeatedly emphasized the importance of a fully immersive experience and the journey through the complexity of human emotions. “I really wanted to tell a story with this album. The Castle and Guarded are bookends and are some of my favorite pieces of writing. The whole album was visual for me.”
One thing that stands out in Chris’s music is his attention to detail. He layers his tracks with a richness that rewards multiple listens, revealing more each time. “I’ve always been a maximalist producer,” he explains. “Some people like to keep things minimal and clean, but I love adding layers. The more I can build, the better.” His approach shines on The Castle, the album’s intro track, which features an astonishing 380 layers. “That track broke my personal record for layers,” he says with a grin. “I wanted the album to feel big, cinematic, like a movie playing out in your head.”
One of Chris’s proudest moments on the album was recording a live choir—a personal milestone for him. “It was a dream of mine to work with a choir, and I finally got to do it for this album. I flew to LA for less than 24 hours just to record them, but it was totally worth it,” he says, clearly still excited by the memory. The live choir brings an epic dimension to the album’s opening track, adding to its immersive feel.
But it’s not just traditional instruments that Chris plays with. When asked about the most random sound he hid on the album, he points to I Got You. “It was mildly inspired by some old reggae tracks my dad would always listen to. That song actually samples a Jamaican reggae track from the ‘70s. There are some really subtle reggae and dub samples tucked in there,” Chris reveals. “If you listen carefully, you’ll catch them.”
And while Let The World Burn has already exploded with over 116 million Spotify streams, Chris’s personal connection to the song goes beyond its numbers. “I love that song, but it’s crazy how much it’s resonated with people. From the demo to the final version, it came together in just two weeks,” he says.
But not everything came together as easily. Grey admits that Give Me Your Love was a bit of a challenge. “I’d written the chorus a long time ago, but when I tried to finish it, I found it hard to get right. Allegra and I spent a lot of time crafting that one.”
Another fan favorite, Make The Angels Cry. The song’s 2-minute, 22-second runtime even feels serendipitous, given the significance of 222 as an “angel number” in spirituality, signaling guidance from a higher power. “I’d love to say it was intentional, but it was an accident,” Chris laughs. “The first bounce of the file was that length, and I decided to keep it. It just felt right.” The track also features Allegra Jordyn, Chris’s girlfriend and long-time collaborator, on the outro. “She killed it on that part,” he says.
For fans who love digging into the details, Chris has hidden some lyrical “Easter eggs” throughout the album. “There are a lot of references to my earlier work, and Allegra’s music too,” he says. “If you really listen, you’ll hear us kind of talking to each other in our songs.”
Looking ahead, Chris Grey has big plans for touring, hoping to take The Castle Never Falls on the road next year. “I’m really hoping to tour next year and take this album on the road,” he says, hinting at potential shows in North America, Europe, and Asia. Beyond touring, Chris dreams of performing with a live orchestra. “I’d love to do one of those screenings where the orchestra plays the soundtrack live alongside a movie. Hearing my music played by an orchestra would be a dream come true.”
Throughout the interview, one theme is clear: Chris’s passion. “I love passionate people, and I try to put that into my music,” he says. For him, it’s about creating an emotional experience, not just following trends. “I’ve worked my whole life to get to this point. To finally see the reactions coming in, seeing fans listening—it’s just been a dream.”
PopFiltr is your personalized hub for in-depth music, media, and entertainment content, offering exclusive artist newsletters, insightful reviews, curated playlists, and comprehensive news and interviews.
To celebrate the release of her latest single, 'Someone to Love,' Freya Sky stopped by for a rapid-fire round with PopFiltr!
reya Skye is a name you’ll be hearing a lot more of, whether it’s on your favorite playlist or the big screen. As both a singer and actress, she’s juggling her music career alongside filming for Disney’s Zombies 4: Dawn of the Vampires. Following the release of her newest single Someone to Love on September 13, Freya took some time to sit down with PopFiltr for a rapid-fire round of questions. From her love for cargo jeans to the album she can’t stop playing, Freya gave us an inside look into what makes her tick. Whether you’re here for her music, acting, or just curious to learn more about this multi-talented star, you’re in the right place.
1. Favorite social media challenge?
Freya Skye: Ice Bucket Challenge
2. Acting or Singing?
Freya Skye: Both!
3. Which song do you currently have on repeat?
Freya Skye: Gracie Abrams' whole album The Story of Us, but specifically Blowing Smoke.
4. Favorite holiday?
Freya Skye: Christmas
5. Favorite fashion trend?
Freya Skye: Jean… like, uh, cargo jeans.
6. Most used emoji?
Freya Skye: Probably the pink heart or the crazy face (🤪) one, haha.
7. Which color captures your personality the best?
Freya Skye: Um, depends what mood I’m in, but I think all-round… maybe a lightish blue.
8. Go-to coffee shop order?
Freya Skye: Chocolate Frappuccino, with no coffee.
9. Most recent show you binge-watched?
Freya Skye: Emily in Paris... oh!
10. Full glam or ‘no-makeup’ makeup?
Freya Skye: Probably a mixture. I love them both for different things.
If you enjoyed getting a taste of Freya’s personality in this rapid-fire round, there’s so much more to explore.
Stay tuned for our upcoming 20 Questions segment, where we’ll dive deeper into her journey, what it’s like balancing music with her acting projects, and what she has planned next. You won’t want to miss it!
From her love of Elvis and Madison Square Garden dreams to the pressure of moving from Cleveland to LA, Maryjo gives an inside look at her journey, inspirations, and creative process in this candid Q&A.
this fun and laid-back session, PopFiltr sat down with Lauren Presley to get to know her beyond the music. Through a series of quick-fire questions, Lauren opened up about everything from her favorite comfort food to her biggest musical influences. Whether she's talking about her life as a part-time vet tech or sharing insights on her new single America’s Sweetheart, Lauren’s responses are down-to-earth and filled with personality. Let’s jump into the conversation!
1. What’s a fun fact about you that not many people know?
Lauren Presley: I'm a part-time vet tech, aside from music. So, that’s kind of my day job.
2. If you could only listen to one album for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Lauren Presley: Oh, that’s hard. Probably Happier Than Ever by Billie Eilish. That’s the one I’ve had on repeat lately.
3. If you could spend a day with any celebrity, who would it be and why?
Lauren Presley: Hmm, probably Taylor Swift. I’ll be honest, I don’t listen to her music a lot, but I just feel like she’d be such a cool person to talk with. She’s got so much going on, and her fan base is incredibly dedicated. That must be an awesome feeling.
4. What’s the last photo you have on your camera roll?
Lauren Presley: Oh, let me check... It’s a screenshot from a post about “America’s Sweethearts” on TikTok.
5. What’s your go-to comfort food?
Lauren Presley: Probably cookies and cream ice cream.
6. Who’s your celebrity crush?
Lauren Presley: Definitely Liam Hemsworth.
7. Most frequently used emoji?
Lauren Presley: Probably the black heart 🖤 . I use it a lot on socials.
PF: It fits with your dark pop aesthetic for sure.
8. If you could have dinner with any three people, dead or alive, who would you choose and why?
Lauren Presley:
9. What’s something about you that might surprise your fans?
Lauren Presley: I think it might surprise them to know that I’m actually pretty quiet and mellow in real life. My music is kind of an alter ego because a lot of my songs are more in-your-face, but that’s not really how I am.
10. What’s your guilty pleasure TV show?
Lauren Presley: Right now, it’s House of the Dragon. I just finished Game of Thrones, which I loved, and now I’m really into House of the Dragon.
PF: You’re pretty late to the game!
Lauren Presley: I know, I know! That’s how I usually am—I wait until everyone else watches something first, and then I hop on board later. But I’m glad I did.
11. If you could have any superpower, what would it be?
Lauren Presley: I’d love to be able to read people’s thoughts.
PF: Ooh, that’s a scary one!
Lauren Presley: Yeah, it could be good or really bad!
12. Who would you choose to be stuck on a deserted island with?
Lauren Presley: My husband, for sure.
13. What’s the last movie that made you cry?
Lauren Presley: I’m not much of a movie crier—my husband cries more in movies than I do! But the last one I cried in was The Notebook. The ending always breaks my heart.
14. What’s the weirdest thing you’ve ever Googled?
Lauren Presley: Probably something gross about my dog. I’m a vet tech, so I tend to Google weird stuff when I don’t understand what’s going on with my dogs!
15. If you had to attend one of four themed parties—horror movie characters, Barbie, disco, or pajama— which one would it be and why?
Lauren Presley: Definitely a Barbie party. I just think it would be so much fun!
16. What’s your favorite hobby outside of music?
Lauren Presley: I love traveling and just hanging out with my husband and our two dogs, Finn and Otter.
17. Which show do you quote the most?
Lauren Presley: I don’t quote shows much, but if I had to pick one, I’d say the Barbie movie, since we wrote a whole song about it.
18. Now for a tough one—rate your singles: “America’s Sweethearts,” “White Noise,” “A Little Longer,” “Should’ve Dated Your Best Friend,” and “Tiptoe.”
Lauren Presley:
19. What message do you hope to convey through your music?
Lauren Presley: I want people to feel like they’re not alone. Whether it’s a sad song they can relate to or something more fun, like Should’ve Dated Your Best Friend, I hope my music can either help them through tough times or just give them a distraction and let them have fun singing along.
20. Your recent single "America’s Sweetheart"—what was the inspiration behind it?
Lauren Presley: Well, I watched the Barbie movie, and it didn’t open my eyes to everything, but as a woman, I’ve experienced things that felt sexist. Watching the movie made me think about it more and brought it to the forefront of my mind. We went into a session a couple of weeks after that, and I had all these ideas from my life experiences and the movie that I wanted to build on and see if we could make into a song. I thought it would be a really cool concept. So, I came up with “America’s Sweetheart.” The chorus is almost like a checklist of how to be America’s sweetheart, which is pretty cool. I really like the way it turned out.
I was a little hesitant to release the song because it’s a bit controversial. I didn’t want to make some people mad, but I also think it’s a message that needs to be heard. So, I’m excited to get it out there.
If you haven’t yet checked out our full interview with Lauren Presley, you can read it here.
Don’t forget to stream her new single "HINT" when it drops on September 27!
Get to know Lauren Presley in a fun, rapid-fire Q&A where the rising pop star shares her favorite lyric, hidden talents, and fears.
eet Lauren Presley, a pop artist on the rise, known for her bold and emotionally raw music. With hits like "White Noise" and "America’s Sweetheart," she’s quickly making a name for herself by speaking out on societal pressures and personal growth. As we gear up for the release of her upcoming single "HINT" on September 27, we caught up with Lauren for a fun rapid-fire session where she shared everything from her favorite lyrics to her biggest fear. Let’s get into it!
1. Favorite lyric you've written?
LP: Can’t be right, but do no wrong.
2. Song you wish you wrote?
LP: Oh, Ocean Eyes by Billie Eilish.
3. Tea or Coffee?
LP: Iced vanilla latte.
4. Favorite movie?
LP: That's so hard… but I’ll say The Notebook.
5 First concert you attended?
LP: Carrie Underwood and Keith Urban.
6. Cats or Dogs?
LP: Dogs. I have two, so... that's quite obvious.
7. One word to describe yourself?
LP: Bold.
8. What’s your hidden talent?
LP: Working with animals.
9. Favorite color?
LP: Blue.
10. Biggest fear?
LP: Being in the middle of the ocean stranded.
Want to dive deeper?
Check out our full interview with Lauren, where she opens up about her music, life, and what’s next for her career.
Ava Max calls for artist protection, fair compensation, and stronger legal frameworks around AI during her Concordia interview with President Iván Duque.
va Max, the global pop sensation known for her chart-topping hits and dynamic performances, sat down with PopFiltr after her impactful appearance at the 2024 Concordia Annual Summit. Participating in the pivotal panel discussion "The Role of AI in the Music Industry," Ava seized the moment to voice deep concerns and champion the rights of artists in an era where artificial intelligence is rapidly reshaping music.
During our conversation, Ava shared a personal experience that ignited her mission to advocate for artists' rights and push for legislative change. A few months ago, Ava was presented with a demo of an AI-generated track featuring her voice—a song she had never recorded.
“I was terrified,” Ava recalled. “Hearing my voice on a track I never touched made me realize how fast AI is advancing—and how unprotected artists and their teams are.” That moment spurred her to take action, recognizing the urgent need for a legal framework to protect creators from the rapid encroachment of AI.
Eager to address the issue on a prominent stage, Ava sought opportunities to amplify her message. In May 2024 during the Milken Global Conference in Los Angeles, Ava met Iván Duque, the former President of Colombia at the exclusive Bird Streets Club.
Over their meal, they delved into the challenges AI poses for artists, discussing how technology is causing upheaval in the music industry. Inspired by their conversation, Ava immersed herself in research, including binge-watching episodes of the All-In Podcast, to deepen her understanding of AI's impact.
"We need to start thinking about intellectual property in the age of AI—should artists be compensated when their music is used to train AI models?" Ava posed to PopFiltr, emphasizing the urgent need for updated laws to protect creative rights. She passionately advocated for a system that ensures artists are fairly compensated when their work contributes to AI advancements.
Her dedication led to the opportunity to speak alongside President Duque at the Concordia Summit. Known for hosting influential figures like President Joe Biden, Bill Clinton, Queen Rania of Jordan, and Warren Buffett, the Summit provided the perfect platform to elevate the conversation about AI's impact on music.
Engaging in a profound dialogue with President Duque, Ava continued the conversation they had begun months earlier. Their exchange highlighted the significant implications of AI on the music industry. "I think we can all agree that AI doesn't have a soul," she stated with conviction. When asked about using AI in the creative process, her response was both heartfelt and incisive: "It takes blood, sweat, tears, hours, long days, and sometimes even months to make a song. AI can generate 150 iterations in less than half a second, but where's the creator behind that?"
Ava elaborated on the irreplaceable human element in artistry. Reflecting on her hit "Sweet but Psycho," she shared, "We probably had ten different versions before settling on the final one. It takes a village, a team, and time. With AI, where is the heart in the process?" Her insights underscored a key concern for artists: while AI can mimic structure and style, it lacks the soul and human experience that give music its deeper meaning.
The discussion naturally turned to the ethical implications of AI, particularly the unauthorized use of copyrighted material. Ava called for immediate legislative action to protect singers, songwriters, producers, and engineers from the rapid advancements of AI. "Ultimately, AI-generated music shouldn't come at the cost of devaluing the human artistry it learns from," she asserted.
When addressing the potential loss of high-paying jobs in entertainment due to AI, Ava referenced an anecdote shared by Michael Ovitz on her favorite podcast, the All-In Podcast. "Bestie David Friedberg asked Michael Ovitz, the legendary founder of CAA, a question that struck a chord with me," she recounted. "Ovitz mentioned that 250,000 people in Los Angeles make their living in the media business, and they're all afraid of one thing: are they going to have a job in the near future? A production designer he hired for a three-week project asked if he would still have a job if AI could do it in an hour. And frankly, Michael Ovitz didn't have an answer." She related this uncertainty to her own concerns about the future of music and entertainment.
Despite the challenges, Ava expressed hope that human creativity will retain its value, potentially becoming a luxury in a world flooded with AI-generated content. "If there's so much AI out there, maybe real human depth and experience will become more valuable. It could be exciting, and maybe more talent will emerge. We don't know yet," she mused.
Offering thoughtful advice on investment opportunities in AI, Ava responded when President Duque asked how investors should approach the industry. "That's a trillion-dollar question. We need to move with the times, and those who can adapt will be the most successful." She emphasized the necessity of developing policies and compensation structures that protect artists as AI continues to proliferate. For investors, the situation presents both a challenge and an opportunity to lead transformation while ensuring fair practices for creators.
As AI's capabilities grow, especially in creating personalized music based on individual preferences and biometric data, the issue of streaming royalties becomes increasingly complex. Ava speculated on the future of royalty payments: "It's likely that a large portion of new music royalties will come from AI-generated or AI-assisted music. The real question is, should AI-generated music receive the same royalties per stream as artist-made music?" Her focus on the moral and ethical implications of AI highlighted the need for clear regulations to prevent exploitation. "It's about fairness. Artists, myself included, work so hard on our songs, our creations, and it has a depth that AI can't replicate."
When asked about the future of superstars and wether they’ll have a place in the music industry, Ava responded with optimism. "Absolutely! The way they are created and maintained may change, but while AI can mimic structures, genres, and trends, it can't emulate the pain of loss or the joy of new life like the human heart does." For her, the future of music isn't about rejecting AI but ensuring that human creators remain at its core.
For Ava Max, participating in the 2024 Concordia Summit wasn’t just a speaking opportunity—it was a chance to influence the global conversation on how AI is reshaping the music industry. With over 15.6 billion streams and a portfolio filled with RIAA Platinum certifications, Ava has cemented her status as a global pop icon. Yet, as she noted during her panel with Iván Duque, the same technology that fuels efficiency also poses existential threats to the creative process.
Ava Max's advocacy serves as a powerful reminder that while AI offers tremendous potential, it must not come at the expense of the creators who give music its soul. Determined to protect and value artists, she is leading the charge to ensure that the future of music honors and safeguards human creativity above all.
Discover the quick insights and fun facts about Conchis in this rapid-fire Q&A!
onchis (pronounced /kahn-tʃɪs/) is a mysterious and fiercely creative artist whose music blends vulnerability with anonymity. Drawing inspiration from her personal struggles, including chronic fatigue syndrome, her latest album Chapters delves deep into the raw emotions of life. Now, in this quickfire round, we get to know the more spontaneous side of Conchis.
1. Favorite song to sing in the shower?
Conchis: "Nothing Compares 2 U."
2. If you were an ice cream flavor, what would you be?
Conchis: Licorice.
3. First job you ever had?
Conchis: Picking strawberries.
4. Favorite element: earth, air, fire, or water?
Conchis: Water.
5. Favorite track on Chapters?
Conchis: "People, Stories."
6. Morning person or night owl?
Conchis: Night owl, for sure.
7. Creating music or visuals?
Conchis: Music.
8. One thing you never leave home without?
Conchis: Lip gloss.
9. Favorite city to get lost in?
Conchis: Paris.
10. If your music had a color, which one would it be?
Conchis: Black.
Want to dive deeper?
Check out our full interview with Conchis, where she reveals more about her creative process, vulnerability, and life with chronic fatigue syndrome.
Also, don’t miss our 20 Questions with Conchis to learn more about her artistic journey and inspirations.
Dive into our exclusive interview with Conchis as she reveals the emotional depth behind Chapters and how vulnerability fuels her art.
hile image often overshadows the art in the world of modern pop, Conchis (pronounced /kahn-tʃɪs/) stands apart as an enigmatic figure, defined by both her anonymity and her intensely emotional music.Her name, Conchis, is derived from John Fowles’ novel The Magus, a book that perfectly mirrors the complexity of her artistic persona. As Conchis herself explains, "I took the name from John Fowles' book, The Magus. The main character was a recluse and a master manipulator who played psychological games with people. The book had a dark undertone, which suited my music, so I thought I'd take that name for myself."
Born into a family that nurtured her artistic potential, Conchis recalls an early connection with music: “My mom said I could sing before I could talk. My parents enrolled me and my sisters in a classical music school, and I started playing the violin at seven. Later, I joined the choir." It was a childhood shaped by music, but it wasn't until a personal tragedy struck that her need to create truly took hold. “The real turning point came when my mom passed away when I was 15. I had all these emotions inside, and I didn’t know how to express them. So, I picked up the guitar, started playing, and something just came out. That’s when I realized I found comfort in creating music, and I knew I wanted to continue.”
"I didn’t want to be connected to my appearance.. So I decided to stay faceless and ageless."
Throughout her journey, Conchis has remained dedicated to a vision of music that reflects her personal struggles, but also one that allows listeners to interpret and engage with their own emotions. This balance between openness and mystery is part of what makes her so compelling. “I believe truly touching music comes from vulnerability,” she says. Yet, despite the raw emotion embedded in her songs, Conchis has chosen to remain somewhat hidden from the public eye. “I didn’t want to be connected to my appearance. I was the frontwoman of a band before, and it felt like so much focus was on how I looked. These days, a lot of music is tied to a certain age, and I want to make music until I’m old and gray. So I decided to stay faceless and ageless—if that’s possible.”
The influences that shaped her sound are as varied as her musical journey itself. "Nowadays, I listen to Thom Yorke—Radiohead, his solo work, or The Smile. I love Fever Ray and Lorn," she notes. But her early tastes ran the gamut, from "lighter pop like A-ha, Bryan Adams, and New Kids on the Block" to grunge staples like "Alice in Chains, Pearl Jam, Stone Temple Pilots, and Nirvana." The evolution of these influences has resulted in a sound that is impossible to pin down, a “mishmash of everything” that defies simple categorization.
Her latest project, Chapters, draws heavily on her personal experiences, blending deep emotional resonance with creative exploration. “Life, in general,” Conchis says when asked about the inspiration for the album. “I went through some hardships—burnout and then becoming ill with chronic fatigue syndrome. Before that, I had struggled with my energy levels for a long time. I’ve always been drawn to human psychology and how people act, so that’s my main inspiration.”
"I realized it was about life’s choices, like not becoming a mother and wondering if that was the right decision."
The album is not an easy listening experience. Conchis understands this, but she hopes that the listeners who connect with her music will find solace in its rawness. “I just want everyone to be real and vulnerable,” she says. “I don’t know if I have a specific message, but I hope to touch people with honesty.” This is especially true for her lead single, “Cray Cray,” a track she didn’t even pick herself. “I gave my PR firm and label free rein to choose. They picked ‘Cray Cray’ for me. It came to me easily—this crazy melody and vocal line just popped into my head. When I wrote it, I realized it was about life’s choices, like not becoming a mother and wondering if that was the right decision. It’s also about curiosity versus craziness, and how sometimes they’re the same thing.”
While Chapters is full of deeply personal reflections, certain tracks were born almost effortlessly. “'Cray Cray' was the first track I wrote since I became a solo artist, and it came very easily—almost like a stream of consciousness,” she explains. On the other hand, the track “Calm Your Mind” explores a feeling she hadn’t fully experienced yet. “It’s about being trapped inside four walls and having racing thoughts. The strange thing is, I wrote it before I actually lived through that experience during my illness.”
Her creative process for the album was fluid and instinctual—whether it's a melody, lyrics, or even a drumbeat. “On this album, I often started with synth and drum patterns, then added demo vocals and built the lyrics from there.” And when her chronic illness made it impossible to physically create music, she adapted, composing two future albums in her head. “When I got sick, I couldn’t even listen to music or open my computer. I had to lie in a dark room, and that’s when I started composing music in my head. I composed my next two albums that way.”
Conchis also embraces mysticism and symbolism in her visual work, finding inspiration in tarot cards and the elements. "For this album, I made my own tarot cards because The Magus is connected to the tarot’s Magician card, which controls the four elements—air, water, earth, and fire." She explains how this choice connects to her creative identity: “I’m also a fan of symbolism and minimalistic design, and as an art director, I wanted to challenge myself to create a minimalistic version of tarot cards, which are usually very rich in detail.”
"I think vulnerability pays off."
Looking ahead, Conchis is already working on her next two albums, viewing her work as a trilogy. “I think it will be a trilogy. I’m not sure if I’ll use the element samples again, but I want all three albums to represent my illness, my journey, and my reflections on life.”
Despite the anonymity and darkness she often explores in her art, Conchis sees her work as a way to offer something honest and real to her audience. Vulnerability is her strength, and it’s through this rawness that she hopes her music will find its home with those who need it most. As she sums up, “I didn’t censor myself. I wrote very personal things and was unsure if I should share them. But I’ve gotten good feedback, especially for Cray Cray, so I think vulnerability pays off.”
Want to learn more about Conchis? Read 20 Questions with PopFiltr.
Tate McRae reflects on her journey from 'listening to everybody' to owning her voice, leading up to her bold and sexy single, "it’s ok, i’m ok."
just 21 years old, Tate McRae has already experienced remarkable highs in her career, from her breakout debut, 'you broke me first' (now 4x Platinum) to the overwhelming success of her latest album, think later. But behind the polished performances and chart-topping hits lies a journey of self-discovery, self-doubt, and a hard-fought battle to reclaim her voice. In her Think Later YouTube/Vevo short film, Tate gives fans a raw, intimate look into her world, breaking down her experiences between live performances of “exes,” “we’re not alike,” and “hurt my feelings.”
"Things come at you really fast.."
“Being present in the moment has been one of the things I had to remind myself of in the past couple of years because things come at you really fast,” she confides. This reflection sets the tone for the entire conversation—Tate is learning to navigate the fast pace of fame, the pressures of the industry, and the delicate balance of staying grounded.
One of the most striking moments in the interview is Tate’s admission of how, for years, she wasn’t living on her own terms. “For so many years, I feel like I went listening to everyone and what they wanted me to be and what they wanted me to say,” she reveals. For someone who entered the music industry at just 15, the pressure to conform was overwhelming. Her confession speaks to a common struggle for young artists, especially those trying to maintain a sense of identity in a world eager to mold them.
"I really figured out...what I want to feel when I’m on the stage—how I feel, feeling sexy in my own body."
But breaking free from those voices wasn’t easy. It was a slow, sometimes painful process of rediscovering her own voice and learning to trust her instincts again. Now, Tate is reclaiming her narrative. “I really figured out what my style is, what I like to write about, and what I want to feel when I’m on the stage—how I feel, feeling sexy in my own body.” This revelation shows a woman stepping into her power, confident in her creative choices. Her recent single, “it’s ok, i’m ok,” is a result of this transformation, with its bold lyrics and infectious rhythm showcasing Tate at her most self-assured.
Tate's vulnerability often fuels her creative process, and in many ways, it’s when she lets her guard down that the magic happens. “I always had a really difficult time talking about happy and good things in life because usually my writing comes from a painful place,” she admits. It’s this raw honesty that has endeared her to fans. Tracks like “exes,” which she performs in the short film, reveal her ability to turn personal pain into art. Ironically, though, the song almost didn’t happen.
“'exes' was so funny because we were finishing up the tracklist of the album. We had all the songs down, and my label was like, ‘Do not write another song,’” she recalls with a laugh. But Tate and producer Ryan Tedder couldn’t resist one last creative burst. “We went into the next room, started to write a song, and came out with a fully produced, recorded, and written song in 60 minutes. It was so random—we just absolutely did not expect it.” This spontaneity highlights a recurring theme in Tate’s work—her best creations come when she stops overthinking and lets the process flow naturally.
“greedy,” the lead single from think later, exemplifies this blend of vulnerability and spontaneity. The song has racked up over 1.4 billion streams on Spotify, and its vibrant music video has garnered more than 152 million views. Following close behind, “exes” has amassed over 414 million streams, with 38 million YouTube views. Clearly, Tate’s ability to channel her raw emotions into music is striking a chord with listeners worldwide.
"You never get an instruction manual on how to do any of this or who you should be.."
Amid the highs of creative success, Tate has also faced the harsh realities of navigating toxic relationships within the industry. “It’s a whole bunch of trial and error, meeting bad people to find good people,” she admits, her voice heavy with experience. It’s a painful, yet all-too-common, part of the journey for many artists. But through those difficult encounters, Tate has emerged stronger, with a clearer vision of what she wants and, more importantly, the right people to help her achieve it.
A major highlight for Tate in the past year has been assembling the right creative team. "For the first time this year, I found a pretty consistent group of people who were able to execute the vision I’ve been wanting for so long and just had no idea how to tap into," she shares. This team, including creative director Bradley J. Calder, helped bring her ideas to life: "I honestly think I found so many people in the past year who are going to be lifelong creators or creative partners, especially my creative director Bradley. He fully understands what’s going on in my brain and knows how to bring it to life without it being altered or skewed in another way."
Tate also speaks highly of working with Ryan Tedder and Amy Allen, both of whom she praises for their songwriting skills: "Getting to be a part of a song, learning from them, and combining all our writing techniques has been really interesting."
This newfound creative freedom is one of the key reasons McRae’s work feels more authentic than ever.
The final segment of the interview reflects on Tate’s broader journey, both as an artist and a person. "You never get an instruction manual on how to do any of this or who you should be, so you just have to figure out what doesn’t work and then what does."
"I am so young, and this is the coolest thing ever!"
As Tate McRae reflects on her journey, she’s keenly aware of how fast things have happened. “It’s hard to reflect on things when they are happening so fast,” she admits, adding that it often hits her in the middle of a performance or when she’s surrounded by people she admires. “Here I am, doing this, and I am so young, and this is the coolest thing ever.”
With think later continuing to dominate our playlists and minds and her latest single, “it’s ok, i’m ok,” embodying her newfound power and sexuality, it’s clear that Tate McRae is only just beginning to tap into her full potential. Her journey of self-discovery, resilience, and unapologetic authenticity is resonating with millions, reminding us all of the importance of staying present and true to ourselves—no matter how fast life comes at us.
Get to know Conchis as she reveals the emotional depth behind her music, her creative rituals, and the journey of turning vulnerability into art.
today's episode of 20 Questions, we sat down with Conchis to get to know her better. Conchis is an enigmatic and fiercely creative artist who embraces both the light and the dark aspects of the human experience. Drawing her name from The Magus, the masterful and psychological novel by John Fowles, Conchis blends intense emotion with anonymity in her art, choosing to keep her appearance and age away from the spotlight to focus purely on the music. Her sound is a unique mixture of genres, evolving from light pop to alternative and shoegaze, all the way to deeply personal, introspective pieces that defy categorization.
Let's dive in.
1. If your music were a place, what kind of landscape would it be?
conchis: Hmm, great question. It would probably be somewhere in Iceland—rugged mountains and flat plains, lots of grit and texture.
PF: Have you been to Iceland?
conchis: Yes, once when I was in a band. It’s such a beautiful place.
2. What’s your perfect day off look like?
conchis: A late morning, coffee, and writing in my diary. Then I’d make music, go for a walk, meet up with friends for dinner, and maybe a glass of wine.
PF: White or red?
conchis:: Red, always red.
3. How do you stay creative when life gets in the way?
conchis: I just have this strong creative fire. Every day, I’m inspired to do something—whether it’s making music, painting, or even sewing. But usually, I want to make music. I don’t need to search for inspiration, it’s just there.
4. Is there a piece of art or visual that you return to for inspiration?
conchis: If TV series count as art, then I’d say Twin Peaks by David Lynch. I love the mix of mysticism, humor, warmth, and darkness.
5. If you had to describe your music using just one color, which one would it be?
conchis: Black.
6. What was the coolest behind-the-scenes moment while making Chapters?
conchis: I loved being in Berlin working with my producer. We went out and celebrated his colleague’s birthday—that was a fun moment.
7. If you could collaborate with any artist, dead or alive, who would it be and why?
conchis: Maybe Lorn. I love his analog sounds, darkness, and minimalism. Or Thom Yorke—I think he’s a genius, and it would be amazing to learn from him.
8. If you had to rank your own music from the album, what would your top three be?
conchis: “Stories” would be number one, then “People, Chapters” at number two, and “Cray Cray” at number three.
PF: Why?
conchis: I’m drawn to emotional tracks, and those three convey my emotions really well. They clicked for me, and I didn’t feel like I needed to add anything more.
9. You’ve had some tough life experiences. If you could go back in time, what advice would you give your younger self?
conchis: I’d tell myself to hold on tightly—it’s going to get rough, but it will get better. You’ll get through it.
10. If you could star in any movie, what genre would it be?
conchis: Probably something with a twist, like Pulp Fiction or Fight Club. I like movies with unexpected endings.
11. What does success mean to you?
conchis: Success for me is being able to make music as much as I want. It’s also when someone tells me a song I wrote touched their heart. That’s a great feeling.
12. What’s your phone background?
conchis:: It’s a painting I made called My Panties Are Showing. It just had that shape, so that’s what I named it.
13. Is there a genre of music you secretly love but haven’t explored in your work yet?
conchis: I’ve tried difficult genres like rap and Latin music, but maybe folk music or something more acoustic could be interesting.
14. Do you have any pre-recording rituals?
conchis: It’s important to be in the right headspace. Sometimes I’m just not feeling it, so I won’t record that day. I try to connect with the emotion I had when I wrote the song and let that flow during the recording.
15. Celebrity crush growing up?
conchis: I don't know about growing up, but now it's Jake Gyllenhaal.
16. What’s been the proudest moment in your music career so far?
conchis: Playing at Canadian Music Week with my band or performing at Flow Festival here in Finland. But every time I finish a track that clicks, that feels like a proud moment.
17. Any hidden talents?
conchis: I can sew clothes!
18. Have you ever formed inspiration from unexpected places?
conchis: Yes, once I was walking in the woods, and I was really angry—something that doesn’t happen often. I heard a rant inside my head, and I recorded it right there in the woods. Inspiration can come at any time.
19. Looking back at your music career, what creative risk have you taken that paid off?
conchis: With my latest album Chapters, I didn’t censor myself. I wrote very personal things and was unsure if I should share them. But I’ve gotten good feedback, especially for “Cray Cray,” so I think vulnerability pays off.
20. Your music is very emotional, and it’s not necessarily an easy listen. Why is that?
conchis: When I’m creating, I tend to channel my negative emotions into the music. In life, I’m generally a happy and positive person, but when it comes to making music, that’s where I release all the darkness. It can be overwhelming at times. It’s not exactly “poppy” or light. But I really hope my album finds the right listeners—people who will connect with it and use it as an outlet for their own emotions.
PF: We have a tradition here at PopFiltr—our current guest leaves a question for our next guest without knowing who they are. The question for you is: “Where do you see yourself in five years?”
conchis: I see myself living in the countryside, creating music and painting. I imagine a quiet life, but one that’s still very creative with lots of projects.
PF: And what would you like to ask our next guest?
conchis: Who is your favorite visual artist?
PF: Any final words for your fans?
conchis: Thank you for listening. It’s always an honor if someone connects with my music, so thank you.
Check out our interview with Conchis, where she delves into her creative process, vulnerability, and life with chronic fatigue syndrome.
From her love of Elvis and Madison Square Garden dreams to the pressure of moving from Cleveland to LA, Maryjo gives an inside look at her journey, inspirations, and creative process in this candid Q&A.
this light-hearted but insightful session, PopFiltr gets to know maryjo better through 20 quick-fire questions. From her unexpected inspirations to her most memorable performance, maryjo gives us a candid glimpse into her world. Let’s dive in!
1. Do you have any 'drunk tattoo's?
maryjo: Yes! Well, actually no. I was sober, but the tattoo says “drunk again.”
2. What has been your most unexpected source of inspiration for a song?
maryjo: Probably being inspired by Noah Kahan’s production, which is crazy because it’s not my type of production at all.
3. If you could perform at any venue or festival in the world, where would it be and why?
maryjo: Probably Madison Square Garden. It’s iconic! That’s how you know you’ve made it.
4. What was your last Google search?
maryjo: Oh, how to say something in Hebrew. I don’t speak Hebrew, but I think it was “What are you doing later?” My friends speak it, and I wanted to impress them. It worked, but then they responded, and I had no idea what they said!
5. Is there a book, show, or movie that changed your life?
maryjo: Yeah, Elvis. The Austin Butler movie where he plays Elvis. Butler really dives into his characters and becomes someone else. It made me think about how I could do the same in music—explore a deeper part of my artistry. Plus, I learned more about Elvis, which was cool.
6. Pick one: “Love Fools” or “Drunk Tattoo”?
maryjo: “Drunk Tattoo.”
PF: “Drunk Tattoo” or “Carpet”?
maryjo: “Drunk Tattoo.”
PFi: “Drunk Tattoo” or “Cleveland”?
maryjo: “Cleveland.”
PF: “Cleveland” or “Should It Be Us”?
maryjo: “Cleveland.”
PF: “Cleveland” or “Nothing to Lose”?
maryjo: “Nothing to Lose.”
7. What inspired the lyrics in “Cleveland,” especially the line: “Who am I? Who am I supposed to be when I've got everybody's eyes on me?”
maryjo: Sometimes I worry people think it’s an ego thing, like, “Oh, everyone’s watching me,” but it’s not that. It’s more about feeling pressure when everyone around you is looking for you to make a decision. When I had to move from Cleveland to LA, everyone was so supportive, but I felt this huge internal pressure. It wasn’t coming from them, it was me putting it on myself. I wasn’t ready for such a big change, but now I love California. At the time, though, it felt overwhelming.
8. What does your perfect day look like?
maryjo: I usually wake up, go for a walk, then head to the beach. That’s literally it! I love sitting at the beach, writing there, and then coming home with my dog.
9. What’s your dog’s name?
maryjo: Bo.
10. What’s one thing you never leave home without?
maryjo: My phone.
11. Your favorite social media challenge?
maryjo: I don’t really know! Maybe those TikTok filter questions where it tells you your red flags. That’s fun.
12. Are there any fashion trends you think should die for good?
maryjo: High socks and sandals. But honestly, that’s more of a personality thing. Stripes, though—I’m not a fan.
13. If you had to describe yourself as a landscape, what would it be?
maryjo: A beach with some hills and mountains.
PF: Sounds like California?
maryjo: Yeah! Also, my family lives in Brazil, and they have a beach with hills there, so that’s my favorite place to be.
14. What single or album do you currently have on repeat?
maryjo: Chappell Roan and Zach Bryan—which is funny because I don’t really listen to country.
15. If you could collaborate with any artist, living or dead, who would it be?
maryjo: Elvis Presley.
16. What’s your current cellphone background?
maryjo: My dog!
17. What was your first job ever?
maryjo: Babysitting.
18. What’s your favorite place to write music?
maryjo: By my piano.
19. What’s been the most memorable performance of your career so far?
maryjo: Boston, when I opened for Knox. It just clicked, and I knew how I wanted to perform for the rest of the tour after that. The people were amazing. I love Boston now—they’re just awesome.
20. What’s a piece of advice that’s stuck with you throughout your career?
maryjo: Be patient.
We have a closing tradition here at PopFiltr, where our current guest leaves a question for the next guest without knowing who it’s for. The question that was left for you is: If you weren’t a musician or artist, what career path would you choose and why?
maryjo: I’d be an interior designer. I love decorating!
PF: And what would you like to ask our next guest?
maryjo: How do you know your job is right for you?
PF: Any final words?
maryjo: Thank you for your support! This has been so much fun, and I’m glad I get to do this.
If you haven’t yet checked out our full interview with maryjo, where she dives deeper into her creative process, heartbreak, and newfound confidence in Nothing to Lose, make sure to read it here.
PopFiltr had the privilege of speaking with rising pop sensation Mary Jo Young (maryjo) about her latest single, Nothing to Lose. In our exclusive interview, maryjo candidly shared insights into her musical journey, creative process, and what’s next.
peaking from her home in Los Angeles, maryjo appeared relaxed on the call, dressed in an oversized hoodie, with natural makeup and flowing beach waves matching the laid-back vibes of her daily routine. “I usually wake up, go for a walk, then head to the beach. I love sitting there, writing, and then coming home with my dog,” she shared with a smile.
Reflecting on the start of her musical career, maryjo explained: "My family has always been into music and singing, but I was very private about it." It was only with TikTok’s anonymity that she found the confidence to share her voice with the world. "I thought, 'Oh, I can sing and nobody has to know,' so I did it, and TikTok started growing. Eventually, I told my mom, and that's what led me to pursue it as a career. But it was really TikTok that made it happen.” Her decision to post covers during the COVID-19 pandemic proved life-changing, as her renditions of popular songs attracted millions of views and eventually led her to audition for American Idol in 2021.
“ I can sing and nobody has to know”
Like many young artists, maryjo grew up listening to pop icons. When asked about her musical inspirations, she quickly cited Kelly Clarkson as a major influence. “I listened to her all the time,” she said. Despite this admiration, her journey to a music talent show wasn’t part of a grand plan. “Honestly, I was terrified to do it at first,” she admitted, referring to her American Idol audition. “I didn’t want to, but now that I think about it, it’s kind of cool how Kelly did the same thing. I hadn’t really made that connection before.”
Her experience on American Idol, however, turned out to be transformative. “Even though it wasn’t my best vocally, it taught me so much. I’m not nervous about singing in front of people anymore. Once you do a show like that and you're under so much pressure, everything else seems easier,” she explained.
Her newfound confidence has carried into her music, especially in live performances. “Now I just appreciate going out and doing concerts instead of being terrified.” With no hesitation, maryjo recalled her most memorable performance: “Boston, when I opened for Knox. It just clicked, and I knew how I wanted to perform for the rest of the tour after that. The people were amazing. I love Boston now—they’re just awesome.”
With each new release, maryjo continues to grow as an artist. Following successful tracks like Cleveland, Should It Be Us (featuring Michael Gerow), and Traffic, comes her newest single, Nothing to Lose.
The song tells the story of a toxic relationship and the realization that walking away was the best decision. It blends emotional depth with sharp, witty lyrics, capturing the liberation that comes from letting go of someone who wasn’t good for you. But as she revealed to PopFiltr, the relationship behind the song wasn’t quite as dramatic as it appears. “At the time, I was seeing someone just for fun, and I realized, ‘Wow, this isn’t a great person.’ I dramatized the song a bit—he’s not actually that bad, we’re friends now. We’ve talked about it, and he knows it was about him, but he’s not offended, we’re cool,” she laughed. “I made the story 10 times crazier for the song.”
“At the time, I was seeing someone just for fun, and I realized, ‘Wow, this isn’t a great person.”
This ability to transform real-life experiences for emotional impact is key to maryjo’s creative process. In Nothing to Lose, she focuses on specific details—like the scent of her ex’s “cologne floating in the air” or the sight of his “silver Honda Civic”—that ground the story in reality but also give it universal appeal: “There’s gotta be a million others with the same kind of hair / I swear.” When asked how she balances keeping her writing personal while making it relatable for fans, she explained: “I think about what I relate to and then break it down to something more universal. For example, if I notice something specific like curly brown hair, I think, ‘Okay, people pay attention to the hair.’ That way, the song connects with anyone listening.”
Her songwriting journey, however, wasn’t something she originally envisioned. “When I first signed with Atlantic, I thought singers sang, writers wrote, and producers produced. I didn’t know I was allowed to write,” she confessed. It wasn’t until a producer encouraged her to continue contributing lyrics during a session that she began to see herself as a songwriter. “It’s been a slow process, but now I feel confident in my writing,” she reflected.
While earlier tracks often focused on toxic relationships, maryjo feels that Nothing to Lose marks a shift in her songwriting. “When I first started writing, I was 21 and surrounded by my girlfriends in college. We all had those ‘stupid’ boyfriends,” she said, recounting the inspiration behind much of her earlier music. But now, she feels she’s in a different place emotionally. “I don’t feel the need to write about toxic relationships as much. It’s more about finding the core of why those things happen and what we can do better,” she added, hinting at a more positive direction for her future work.
Maryjo's upcoming music is likely to reflect this mindset, with a shift toward happiness and self-empowerment. “Now, my music will probably be a lot happier,” she said, laughing, adding that she’s excited to explore a broader sound. “Honestly, kind of like Sabrina Carpenter—a modern pop, but with a little Dolly Parton vibe. I’m interested in going in that direction.”
As for what’s on the horizon, maryjo has plenty of plans. “I’m working on a bunch of singles, and hopefully, it’ll wrap up as an EP,” she revealed. “I’m also planning more tours in the spring.”
While fans might hope for an EP by the end of the year, maryjo remains cautiously optimistic. “I’d love to manifest that, but it’ll probably be next year,” she said, smiling.
For now, Nothing to Lose is the anthem of the moment, capturing maryjo’s shift from bad relationships to embracing a more empowered and confident version of herself. And as she continues to grow both as a writer and performer, her fans can look forward to hearing more from the artist who started off with nothing to lose—and now has everything to gain.
Stay tuned for 20 Questions with maryjo for more exclusive content, and visit the artist's official website for the latest updates and information.
maryjo, 'Nothing To Lose' (lyric video):
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