We had the good fortune of connecting with Claire Davis and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Claire, how has your work-life balance changed over time?
Since starting my own business I think the balance has definitely tipped more heavily towards work because there are a lot of demands of you as a small business owner. You can’t really clock in and out the same way you would a 9-5, there’s a lot of research, admin, and networking involved in being a part of the music business and it often doesn’t stick to a specific schedule. Because I do something I love it makes it easier to dedicate more time to it although I’m conscious of reserving time for myself and my loved ones to recoup and avoid burnout.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I’m a soul artist and analog enthusiast- so I like to record all my music to tape and press vinyl. I am careful about using the term “retro” because I do feel that while I am deeply inspired and rooted in 60s and 70s Soul, I like to put my own spin on things. I began my solo project during the pandemic when there was a lot of time for reflecting on what I wanted to return to when the world re-opened. I released my debut album in April 2023 on LRK Records in the UK and its been a really powerful and affirming experience. After attaining my Bachelor’s Degree in Music in 2014 I was a background singer for many different internationally acclaimed artists and did a lot of networking that way. I learned to always be as reliable, hardworking, and fun to be around as possible because in this industry relationships are everything. Music is always a tough game but I honestly couldn’t imagine doing anything else. I write a lot of music about self-love, self-worth, and cycle-breaking, inspired by my own path in life and the obstacles I’ve overcome to be who I am. I think it’s a message that resonates with many people these days as the world continues to shift drastically around us.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
In Toronto, we are lucky to have so many people from different cultures around the world in this one place, which makes for an amazing selection of food. I would take them to a spot called “La Bella Managua” which is a phenomenal Nicaraguan restaurant, “Gonzo” is a great spot for Japanese Tapas, and Annette Food Market for Italian. I’m a fan of spending time outside so a trip to High Park or the Beaches would be on the menu for sure (hopefully it’s summertime during this visit). And obviously some live music has to be on the menu! Some of my favourite spots for a drink and good music are “915 Dupont” which is a modelled after a Japanese Hi-fi listening bar and they’re always spinning amazing vinyl, serving great drinks (or coffee during the day), also “Mrs. Robinson” is another vibey spot that always has great live music.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
My High School music teacher in Victoria BC ran the absolute BEST band program which I sang in for four years, and it really set me on the path to make music a career. It was a 12-piece R&B/Motown band and we performed probably about 30-40 shows every school year including the local jazz festival. These years not only gave me a huge amount of performing experience but there was a level of professionalism expected from us that really made me personally rise to the occassion and always want to give my best. It was a formative and inspiring time that I’ll always be grateful for.

Website: www.clairedavismusic.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/clairedavismusic

Facebook: www.facebook.com/clairedavismusic

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCInLO_F5Ebq8mZ4pqJM8hjQ

Image Credits
Stephani Montani Conor McSweeny Neil Watson Matt Barnett

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutAtlanta is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.