Claire Hawkins, the mesmerizing singer-songwriter celebrated for her captivating melodies and profound lyrics, has once again graced the music world with her latest single, “Choosing to Stay,” a stirring composition that delves into the complexities of choice and the allure of staying put. Released on July 14th, this track serves as the introductory glimpse into her upcoming EP, aptly titled “Foreign Voice.”
Following her musical expedition chronicled in the EP “Foreign Voice,” Hawkins embarks on a fresh musical odyssey with “Choosing to Stay,” marking a pivotal milestone in her artistic journey. The song unfurls a narrative that beckons listeners on an introspective expedition, contemplating the weight of opportunities and the intricacies of decisions. In soul-stirring verses, she croons, “With everything and nothing holding me here / Now I’m making plans for the rest of the year,” underscoring that while this musical evolution paints a new chapter, her profound connection to the themes of travel and exploration remains steadfast.
With a voice that dances between the realms of enchantment and raw emotion, Claire Hawkins possesses one of the catchiest and most powerful vocal talents ever heard in the music landscape. Her performance on “Choosing to Stay” elevates her vocal prowess to another level, leaving an indelible imprint on the hearts of listeners. Each note she utters is a masterful brushstroke, painting a vivid sonic tapestry that resonates with the deepest corners of the soul.
Hawkins’s songwriting skills are equally enchanting, weaving intricate narratives that tug at the heartstrings and offer a glimpse into the human experience. Her lyrics on “Choosing to Stay” are a testament to her ability to craft verses that are both honest and beautifully written, seamlessly meshing with the vocal melodies. As her words flow, they invite us to embark on a reflective journey, pondering the delicate balance between seizing new horizons and finding solace in the present moment.
While renowned for her solo escapades, Hawkins champions the collaborative spirit. Crafting this EP, she harmonized with fellow visionaries from New York City and Dublin, painting a tapestry that celebrates the vibrant diversity of her sound. As an Irish-American artist dividing her time between these two culturally rich cities, Hawkins effortlessly draws from the tapestries of Irish folk traditions and the soulful tapestries of Americana.
“Choosing to Stay” wears its influences with pride, spotlighting Hawkins’s masterful synthesis of genres. The resounding guitar melodies evoke shades of Americana luminaries like Jason Isbell and Brandi Carlile, while the lyrical narratives channel the storytelling prowess characteristic of Irish virtuosos such as Glen Hansard and CMAT. The percussive heartbeat lends a polished pop veneer, amplifying the tapestry of genres that Hawkins expertly weaves. At the forefront of this musical collage are her unmistakable lead vocals, compelling in their clarity and luring listeners into her enchanting world.
Hawkins’s musical journey has spanned continents, her songs echoing through hostels across Europe, resonating against the backdrop of Thailand, and even serenading the hearts of audiences in Bulgaria with the accompaniment of a skilled violinist. As an artist-in-residence in France, she harnessed the power of her craft to forge connections through her poignant compositions. While her wanderlust remains an integral part of her essence, “Choosing to Stay” serves as the prologue to her next phase as an artist. Her evolution is palpable, a testament to her unwavering dedication and the resounding impact of music as a vessel of connection.
In a world characterized by transience and movement, Claire Hawkins’s “Choosing to Stay” is a poignant reminder that sometimes, the most profound journey is the one within. With her distinctive voice and eloquent songwriting, Hawkins invites us to explore the tapestry of emotions that accompany the choices we make and the paths we tread. As we embark on this new chapter of her musical expedition, one thing remains abundantly clear: Claire Hawkins’s artistry is an indomitable force that continues to captivate and inspire.
ABOUT THE ARTIST:
Claire Hawkins brings new life to the term “troubadour” as a traveling singer/songwriter.
Her rapidly growing YouTube channel has amassed over 15,000 subscribers and more than a million views from people all over the world who follow her global adventures as an independent musician.
Hawkins first launched her international music career with a DIY European tour. Using Dublin, Ireland as a homebase, the Foreign Voices Travelers Tour supported the release of Hawkins’s EP ‘Foreign Voice’ and took place in youth hostels, channeling the special moments of connection that these travel spaces provide. Most recently, Hawkins spent a month in Southern France as part of the government-funded Odyssée Artist-in-Residence Program, where she worked on an original songwriting project centered around the theme of intercultural connection.
Community and connection are the heart of the work that Hawkins does. Her strong belief in the unifying power of music is a driving force behind her art, and it shines through in both her narrative lyrics and her eclectic folk-pop melodies. As she travels the globe with her songs, Hawkins hopes to bring people together, in the way that only music can.
She is currently preparing to release her third EP, due out later this year.
