A Quick Chat With Clare Perrott
Clare Perrott steps into the spotlight with Philadelphia, a stirring debut single out now that captures the raw ache of parting ways. Rooted in timeless folk tradition, the Boorloo-based singer-songwriter pairs nylon-string guitar with emotive, twang-laced vocals to deliver a heartbreak ballad that’s as vulnerable as it is resonant. With influences drawn from folk greats and a recent performance at Woodford Folk Festival under her belt, Clare brings a storytelling style that feels both classic and deeply personal. We caught up with Clare to talk about Philadelphia, her musical journey, and what’s next.
Can you tell us what this track means to you and what you want people to take away from it?
‘Philadelphia’ is my first single I am putting out to the world and I am both super excited and super nervous. I wrote it in an interesting space and to be honest, it took me a while for the song to I really mean something to me. It’s mainly focused on the feeling of yearning – where my fellow yearners at !! hehehe but no I do not mind what people take away from the song – I just hope they like it and if you don’t pls let me know I will try to do better for the next one.
Who are some of your influences, and why?
Oooo so many! This track in particular is strongly influenced by Americana artist Rayland Baxter and British folk artist Billie Marten! Their intricate guitar work and honest lyricism was extremely inspiring and made me fall in love with songwriting all over again. But that being said I take huuuge inspiration from Adrianne Lenker, Jeff Buckley, Damien Jurado, Phoebe Bridgers and Faye Webster.
What's the creative process for you, from writing through to recording?
I love to write in my room. I would say I am actually quite shy when it comes to songwriting and get very reserved until I am happy with it. For this track, I was just noodling and finding chords and picking patterns that I like and seeing where it could go. I usually sit on a progression for a while and then slowly assembled some lyrics that I thought were fitting ☺
What do you think makes a great song?
Whatever makes me feel I think. I’m not the world's biggest lyric person but chords and an interesting band arrangement do it for me and something that I just can’t stop thinking about. A song that just gives raw emotion.
If you could collaborate with any artist, who would it be and why?
I would have to say Faye Webster. I absolutely love her !! She recently did an amazing collaboration with Benee called ‘Make Em’ Laugh’ and I think it is my favourite song of 2025. Her lyrics are so deeply personal and nostalgic yet simple – I would love to see how she makes her art.
When not working on music, what other creative outlet/s do you have?
I am ever so slowly trying to get into painting and collaging but… I have found I am not talented in any way shape or form. But what can you do! I’ve invested in some nice pencils so I guess I will just stick to doodling.
Who are some local bands we should check out?
There are so many - Perth is so lucky !! But I would have to say Raymondouu, Oakabella Mae, Figurehead and Missie and they are making some cool appearances at Clancys Fremantle on June 6th…
Winter or summer and why?
Winter for sure! I love how cold it gets - it just feels so cozy. I think I am more of an indoor person and I loveee a classic movie night in. I also hate sweating so there’s that.
What do you have planned for 2025?
For 2025 I am focusing on recording and performing more and seeing what people think of my stuff. I’m in a bit of a delicate position as I’m feeling the tiniest (huge) bit scared to start releasing but excited to start experimenting a bit more in the studio. I am the luckiest person in the world with my band and I’m keen to see what we come up with!
Follow Clare Perrott: Facebook | Instagram | TikTok