After establishing herself with a string of vibrant releases in recent years, Phoenix-based singer-songwriter Kayla Clark makes her eagerly-awaited return with her shimmering new single 'Destined To Be Alone'.
Adopting a warm and emotive piano-led aesthetic for her newest outing, 'Destined To Be Alone' makes for a beautifully rich and vibrant listen. With her tender vocal performance layered across an atmospheric production from start to finish, she is returning to the fold with one of her most passionate efforts to date.
So with the new single available to stream now, we sat down with her to find out more about her origins and what has been inspiring her most over the years.
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What was the first instrument you fell in love with?
I first fell in love with piano. I started lessons when I was about 9 years old and since then it has been my favourite instrument to play.
What kind of music did you love when you were younger?
I loved all kinds of music. My older brother listened to R&B and rap so I listened to that growing up. I also loved songs with acoustic sounds, as I felt like I could really feel more connected with the music.
What was the first album you remember owning?
I honestly don’t remember my first album but I do remember the first album that was my favourite. It was 2014 Forest Hills Drive by J Cole. Since then I have been a huge J Cole fan and he’s probably my favourite rap artist.
What is the one song you wished you could have written yourself?
I can’t decide between Tate McRae’s “I Still Say Goodnight” or Nessa Barrett’s “Plane to Paris”. Both of the songs are so beautifully written and they are 2 of my favourite songs at the moment.
Do you have any habits or rituals you go through when trying to write new music?
I usually start with an idea of what I want my song to be about. Once I come up with the full story in my head, I begin with the lyrics and from there I decide the melody and chord progression. The lyrics are always the main focus in my writing process.
Who are your favourite artists you have found yourself listening to at the moment?
J Cole, Tate McRae, Nessa Barrett, Drake, Lil Durk, Brent Faiyaz, Giveon.
If you could open a show for anyone in the world, who would it be?
I would say probably Tate McRae. I love her music and it’s amazing to see how far she has come in the music industry.
What do you find is the most rewarding part about being a musician?
Being able to connect with people who listen to your music. It sounds backwards but writing about loneliness makes the people listening feel less alone because they know someone else is going through the same thing as another person. Music has always been like therapy to me so to possibly write a song that could be that for even one other person is an amazing opportunity.
And what is the most frustrating part?
I think the most frustrating part is trying not to compare myself with other artists. Sometimes I hear songs that are so amazing and it makes me think less of the songs I write.
And what is the best piece of advice you have received as a musician?
To just write music that means something to me regardless of how many views or listens it gets. At the end of the day, music is therapy for me so it’s important that I stay true to my sound and not let anything interfere with the music I love to write. The number of adds to playlists doesn’t define a song, it’s just a benefit of being a songwriter.
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Kayla Clark's new single 'Destined To Be Alone' is available to stream now. Check it out in the player below.