Interviews

Greedy Exes

Tate McRae Lights Up the Today Show with Performances of 'Exes' and 'Greedy'

Tate McRae Performs 'exes' and 'greedy' at the Tonight Show

Information about the image

December 13, 2023

Tate McRae dazzled on the Today Show with heartfelt performances of 'Exes' and 'Greedy', coupled with an insightful conversation about her artistic journey and the creation of her sophomore album, 'Think Later'.

PopFiltr

Tate McRae delighted her fans with unexpected live renditions of 'Exes' and 'Greedy' during her appearance on the Today Show. Before her performance, she engaged in a revealing conversation with hosts Jenna Bush Hager and Hoda Kotb about the creative journey behind her sophomore album, “Think Later”.

The hosts began by highlighting Tate's impressive achievements, noting her nearly a billion views on her videos and her top 40 hit. They remarked on her performances at high-profile events like the Billboard Music Awards and Saturday Night Live, emphasizing her status as a pop sensation.

Responding to this, McRae shared, "Yeah, I was a competitive dancer my whole life, so the music kind of started when I was around 16 years old, and I'm 20 now, so it's been a journey."

The conversation shifted to her recognition in Vogue magazine, with the hosts mentioning a headline that proclaimed her as taking over the world. Tate expressed her feelings about this acknowledgment, saying, "Yeah, I mean obviously, it's such an honor. I think even just seeing my name in Vogue was just like a dream come true. The last like two months have just been many moments of dream come true, so it's very cool."

Discussing her sophomore album, the hosts pointed out the challenges and successes associated with such a venture. Tate elaborated on her creative process, stating, "Lots of hours in the studio, lots of mood boarding and planning, and figuring out what I wanted to say next... lots of writing and figuring out my feelings."

Following the interview, Tate McRae performed ‘Exes’ from her album live on the Today Show, followed by another captivating performance of 'Greedy'. These performances not only highlighted her vocal talent but also her ability to connect with the audience through her music. Both can be viewed below.

It should also be noted that later the same day, Tate McRae delivered a live performance on 'The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon'. Read more about it here.

Tate McRae Performs 'Exes' Live at The Today Show:

Tate McRae Performs 'Greedy' Live at The Today Show:

PopFiltr

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.

Interviews

PopFiltr Excusive

Chris Grey: 20 Questions with PopFiltr

Information about the image

November 29, 2024

Chris Grey takes us behind the scenes of The Castle Never Falls, sharing his journey, self-produced sound, and the surprising inspirations driving his rise in Dark R&B.

PopFiltr

Chris Grey, one of the new faces of Dark R&B, opens up about his creative process and the inspirations behind his rising success in 20 Questions with PopFiltr. With over 5 million monthly listeners on Spotify and 500 million streams across platforms, Grey’s self-produced sound fuses nocturnal R&B with cinematic, orchestral intensity. Drawing from his Jamaican and Canadian roots, his debut album, The Castle Never Falls, debuted at number 7 on Spotify's Top Albums Debut Global chart during its opening weekend (October 18-20). Dive in as Grey discusses collaborating with his girlfriend Allegra Jordyn and best friend Christopher Graham, the fan art that left a lasting impression, and the music that inspires him—from The Weeknd to The Marias.

1. What kind of music do you listen to in your spare time?
Chris Grey: I wasn’t really into classical music until last year, but I’ll put it on when I’m reading. I love The Weeknd, Chase Atlantic, and lately, I’ve been into The Marias and Cigarettes After Sex. But it depends on my mood. I listen to everything from rap to R&B to pop. Michael Jackson is a big one for me, too—he was one of my biggest influences as a kid.

2. What’s the most unconventional technique you’ve used to achieve a sound you had in mind?
Chris Grey: Sometimes I’ll play sounds through my speakers and then record them on my phone if I want a really lo-fi sound—kind of like it’s been sampled. And I love using random sounds, like a car door shutting or atmospheric sounds like thunder and rain. They just add something unexpected.

3. If your music were a movie, what genre would it be, and who would you get to direct it?
Chris Grey: Probably a romance thriller. And for the director… can’t go wrong with Steven Spielberg. He’d bring a super cinematic, classic touch to it.

4. If one day you weren’t allowed to make music—no recording, no producing, no listening—what would you do instead?
Chris Grey: I’d probably go into film. As a kid, photography and cinematography were my other passions. I used to want to make movies. I kind of get to do that now with my music videos, so it’s fun to tap back into that side of things.

5. You co-write a lot of your music with Allegra Jordan and Christopher Graham. Does that make the creative process easier or more challenging, working closely with your girlfriend and best friend?
Chris Grey: It definitely makes the process easier. We know each other so well, so there’s no learning curve. When it comes to disagreements, we usually defer to the artist whose project it is. So, if it’s Allegra’s song, she has the final say. Same with my music—if there’s a difference of opinion, it ultimately comes down to me. But we don’t disagree often.

6. What’s the last book you read?
Chris Grey: Everyone in My Family Has Killed Someone—it’s a murder mystery. Loved it.

7. If you could create an immersive art installation based on one of your tracks, what would the experience be like?
Chris Grey: Cool. I’d probably start with rain sounds, maybe some thunder—set a really moody vibe. I’d want a gothic castle feel, with stone walls, stained glass windows, and candlelight. Something super atmospheric that fits the aesthetic of my music. Maybe even some fake rain—you might get wet.

8. What’s the strangest or most memorable piece of fan art or message you’ve ever received?
Chris Grey: Oh, I’ve got it right here! So, on tour, people would always ask me to draw something for their tattoos. I’m awful at drawing, but one day I tried drawing a star for someone. It was the worst star you’ve ever seen. The fans never let me live it down—there’s even a photo of it that haunts me. Then, at the next show, someone made me a poster with step-by-step instructions on how to draw a star. And honestly, since then, I’ve been way better at it!

9. Do you have any pre-show rituals or routines before you step on stage?
Chris Grey: Nothing too crazy. I like to get into the zone and be alone for the last five minutes before the show. I’ll put my in-ears in, block everything out, jump up and down a bit to get pumped, and then I’m ready to go.

10. Is there one thing you always keep handy during recording sessions—something that helps with writing or recording?
Chris Grey: Honestly, not really. I don’t even write down my lyrics most of the time. I just write at the mic and record as I go. My sessions are pretty spontaneous, and I tend to record late at night. My voice sounds better then, so that’s usually when I get the best takes.

11. Now, the tough one: If you had to rank your top five tracks—whether from the new album or your entire discography—what would they be and why?
Chris Grey: Top five? Okay, in no particular order. First, The Castle—that song took the most work and time, and I’m really happy with how it turned out. Then, Let The World Burn—not only do I love it personally, but seeing how it resonated with people made it even more special. Last Breath would be another favorite for sure. I’d say The Shadows as well—it was the first song where I really found my sound. Lastly, Cold-Blooded. I love that one.

12. If you could collaborate with any artist, dead or alive, who would it be? (Let’s exclude The Weeknd this time!)
Chris Grey: Easy—Ozzy Osbourne. He was one of my earliest influences, and I think a collab with him would be so unique. I loved his song with Post Malone—it was such a cool cross-genre moment.

13. Is there a song you’ve released that you’d like to go back and rework or that you regret releasing?
Chris Grey: Interesting. I don’t know if I want to say because the fans love these songs, but if I had to pick one, I’d say Prada Versace. It’s one of those songs where I sometimes forget I released it. I’m sure the fans would kill me for saying that, though!

14. How do you see your sound evolving over the next five years?
Chris Grey: I definitely want to keep evolving. Each album will be cohesive in its own sound, but I think with each project, I’ll switch things up. After this album, I’m planning to take a short break—not a long one, just a month or two—and travel, listen to different music, and get inspired. That’s usually how I find new directions.

15. If you could write the soundtrack to a love story—whether real or fictional—which one would it be?
Chris Grey: Good question. Surprisingly, I don’t read a lot of romance. I love political dramas like Suits or business dramas. But since Allegra made me watch Gossip Girl recently, and I got obsessed with it, I’d go with Chuck and Blair. I’d love to write a song for them.

16. What’s one piece of advice you’d give your younger self or any young indie artist getting into songwriting and production?
Chris Grey: I’d say early in my career, I was too focused on what I thought other people wanted. I was always trying to make what I thought would work for radio or TikTok, and it really limited me. When I go back and listen to that music, it’s my least favorite. Once I stopped caring so much about outside expectations and started making what I love, that’s when the music really became something I’m proud of.

17. What’s been the proudest moment of your career so far?
Chris Grey: That’s an easy one. It was on tour—the first time I heard people singing my lyrics back to me. It was the first show in Chicago, and I was the opener. I remember missing a word during one song, and the crowd filled it in. Hearing that through my mic was crazy. That moment really stuck with me.

18: If someone were to find a hidden message in your music, what would you want it to be?
Chris Grey: Hmm… I’d say passion. I love passionate people, and I try to put that energy into my music—whether it’s the passion of making the music or the romantic passion in the lyrics. I’d say: "Live life passionately."

19. If music were a language, how fluent do you think you are in it?
Chris Grey: Interesting. Technically speaking, I’m probably still a beginner—I wasn’t really into music theory for a long time. But if we’re talking about music as an emotional language, I’d say I’m pretty fluent.

20. And for the last question: If you were stranded on an island, what three things would you bring with you?
Chris Grey: My laptop, for sure. I live on my laptop. I’d also bring a microphone and speakers—just the whole setup. Leave me there for a year or two, and I’ll come back with an album!
PF: You might need a fourth thing—electricity!
Chris Grey: (laughs) Yeah, a generator, definitely.

PF: We have a tradition at PopFiltr where our guest leaves a question for the next guest without knowing who it’s for. The question left for you is: Is there a visual piece of art or a creator whom you drew inspiration from?‍

Chris Grey: Oh, that’s a good one. I’d say nature has been a huge visual inspiration for me, especially rugged places like Iceland and Alaska. There’s something about those landscapes that just speaks to me. They’re just so beautiful.‍

PF: That would be incredible as a setting for one of your music videos.‍

Chris Grey: I know! I’ve almost done it a few times. One day I’ll make it happen.‍

PF: And finally, what question would you like to leave for our next guest?‍

Chris Grey: I’d ask: What’s your favorite part of your own music that you feel people overlook?‍

PF: That’s a great one. Thanks so much for chatting with us, Chris. We’re excited to see what’s next—especially that Make The Angels Cry music video.‍

Chris Grey: Thank you. I’m excited for everyone to see it, too.

Want to dive deeper?
Check out our full interview with Chris Grey, where he reveals more about his journey to find his authentic sound and the creative process behind The Castle Never Falls.
And don’t miss our Rapid Fire Questions with Chris Grey to learn even more about your favorite artist!

Interviews

PopFiltr Exclusive

Chris Grey Reveals the Secrets and Mystery Behind 'The Castle Never Falls'

Chris Grey wearing black and silver armor in a foggy cemetery for the press kit of 'The Castle Never Falls'.

Information about the image

October 21, 2024

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.

PopFiltr

At 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.”

Chris Grey in armor, holding a sward, cemetery, 'The Castle' press photo - PopFiltr

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.”

Chris Grey in armor, night sky, castle, press images for 'The Castle Never Falls'

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.”

Interviews

PopFiltr Exclusive

Freya Skye: Rapid Fire Questions with PopFiltr

Freya Skye in a princess-like long dress with loose wavy hair, sitting on a dock against a black background during the music video shoot for 'Someone to Love'.

Information about the image

October 3, 2024

To celebrate the release of her latest single, 'Someone to Love,' Freya Sky stopped by for a rapid-fire round with PopFiltr!

PopFiltr

Freya 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!

Interviews

PopFiltr Exclusive

Lauren Presley: 20 Questions with PopFiltr

Lauren Presley-20 question with PopFiltr-Hint-release

Information about the image

September 26, 2024

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.

PopFiltr

In 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:

Elvis Presley, because of the fascinating life he led.
Justin Bieber, because he’s come so far in his career after being discovered on YouTube.
Taylor Swift, again, because I’d love to talk to her about how she’s gotten to where she is and what it’s been like behind the scenes.

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:

White Noise is the most important to me because it’s so vulnerable and honest. I was worried people wouldn’t relate since it’s about my experience as an artist, but I needed to put it out there for myself.
A Little Longer is second. I wrote it when I was 19, and it was such an easy, fun session. It was my first song to hit over a million streams, so that’s really special to me.
Next, America’s Sweethearts. I’ve had a lot of people resonate with it, and that’s really cool to see.
Tiptoe is one of my favorite songs I’ve done. I just love the vibe.
And last, Should’ve Dated Your Best Friend. I love this one too—it was such a fun song to write, but if I had to rank them, this would be last.

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!

Interviews

PopFiltr Exclusive

Lauren Presley: Rapid Fire Questions with PopFiltr

Lauren-Presley-in white shirt with a black tie-PopFiltr-Rapid-fire-hint single is out

Information about the image

September 26, 2024

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.

PopFiltr

Meet 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.

Interviews

PopFiltr Exclusive

President Iván Duque Interviews Ava Max on AI’s Role in Music at Concordia: "AI Has No Soul"

President Ivan Duque and Ava Max on Concordia 2024 panel, AI in music industry.

Information about the image

September 24, 2024

Ava Max calls for artist protection, fair compensation, and stronger legal frameworks around AI during her Concordia interview with President Iván Duque.

PopFiltr

Ava 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.

President Ivan Duque at Concordia Summit 2024, speaking to Ava Max on role of AI in music industry. PopFiltr

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.

Ava Max speaks on AI in music industry at Concordia Summit 2024. PopFiltr

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.

Matthew Swift, CEO of Concordia and Ava Max, 2024, PopFiltr — Matthew Swift, CEO of Concordia and Ava Max

Interviews

PopFiltr Exclusive

conchis: Rapid Fire Questions with PopFiltr

Conchis-PopFiltr-rapid-fire-chapters-photo credit-Marko-Rantanen

Information about the image

September 18, 2024

Discover the quick insights and fun facts about Conchis in this rapid-fire Q&A!

PopFiltr

Conchis (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.

Interviews

PopFiltr Exclusive

Unveiling Conchis: The Hidden Face Who Channels Darkness into Music and Art

Information about the image

September 18, 2024

Dive into our exclusive interview with Conchis as she reveals the emotional depth behind Chapters and how vulnerability fuels her art.

PopFiltr

While 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.

Interviews

it's ok, i'm ok

‘Feeling Sexy in My Own Body’: Tate McRae on Confidence, Creativity, and Finding Her Voice

Tate-McRae-black-and-white-portrait-genvmagazine-cover

Information about the image

September 18, 2024

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."

PopFiltr

At 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.

Interviews

PopFiltr Exclusive

conchis: 20 Questions with PopFiltr

Information about the image

September 18, 2024

Get to know Conchis as she reveals the emotional depth behind her music, her creative rituals, and the journey of turning vulnerability into art.

PopFiltr

In 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.