Award-winning singer-songwriter Stacy Clark is the latest artist to tackle “The Five Question Challenge.” (Photo courtesy of Stacy Clark & property of Becky Siegel)
By: Jacob Elyachar, jakes-take.com
Stacy Clark is the latest artist to tackle The Five Question Challenge.
The Buffalo, New York native (and Orange County transplant) has won seven awards including the 2012 Artists in Music’s Best Singer-Songwriter and her music has been used on some of the millennial generation’s favorite TV shows including One Tree Hill, The Hills, My Super Sixteen and The Rachel Zoe Project.
In addition to all of these achievements, Stacy plays residencies at Hollywood’s Hard Rock Café and Las Vegas’s The Cosmo. She has also opened for a diverse group of artists such as Belinda Carlisle, Kate Nash, The Plain White Ts and Matt Nathanson.
Outside of her artistry, she has also is a strong supporter of several charities including To Write Love On Her Arms, Habitat For Humanity and the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society.
For her Five Question Challenge, Stacy talked about the recording process for her latest studio album: Symmetry and what fans can expect from her for the remainder of 2014.
Jacob Elyachar: When did you get interested in music?
Stacy Clark: The first time music made me feel was when I was six. I was learning how to dance. I was taught when you hear the beat; you sway back and forth. Since then, I have been hooked. I love going to concerts and playing instruments. The first instrument I learned was a clarinet, followed by an acoustic guitar. I also enjoy tinkering around on the piano.
JE: How does your songwriting differ from other singer-songwriters in the music market?
SC: My songs come from my heart and are emotional. Each song is its own story. When I write for myself, it is very natural. I enjoy writing for others as well, but also it is more work. It is different as there are more personalities to please (Artists, A&R, Managers, etc.) This can make it challenging and a song more generic. I do enjoy writing with other producers and writers. I feel each writer is unique and brings something special when crafting a song. At the end of the day, I try to do what is best for the song.
All 14 tracks of “Symmetry” showcase Stacy Clark’s superb songwriting skills. (Album cover courtesy of Stacy Clark)
JE: How long did it take you to create your latest studio album, “Symmetry,” from conception to release? What were some of the challenges that you faced during the recording process and how did you overcome them?
SC: The recording process took a year. The main obstacle that I faced during this recording process was getting the album released. I really wanted to release it a year ago, but I was also advised to release an EP first. It is hard for me to be patient, as I am always eager to share my new songs with my fans.
JE: What can your fans expect from you for the rest of 2014?
SC: My fans can expect new music, new remixes and more music videos. I have been doing a lot of co-writing with others and am excited to have other artists singing songs I helped create. At the end of the day, I just want to create. I also love writing and filming little comedy skits. You can check them out on my YouTube channel. You can plan to see more of that as well.
JE: If you had the chance to meet with aspiring singer-songwriters who want a career in the music industry, what advice would share with them?
SC: Do not be afraid of rejection. You will face it many times, but each time just know you are one step closer to success. Do what you love. Stay true to yourself and be kind. Use the time you have wisely, as the older you get the less of it you have to pursue things. Take the time to practice an instrument, take vocal lessons and educate yourself in the area you want to excel in. People will take you serious if you are serious about your craft. Be humble. Be thankful. Take an art class. Music and art often go hand in hand. Hone your skills now. Always be you. Make friends with people who are like you and who accept you for who you are. Start a band. Write a song. Surround yourself with good-hearted, positive people. Time is on your side.
You can connect with Sarah on social media through her Facebook, Twitter and YouTube channels.
