Claudillea is known for her stunning operatic voice that blends pop, trap, hip-hop and electronica - a genre she calls OPPOP. In 2020 she rose to recognition on The Voice with Team Meghan.

The pandemic put a holt to any performances directly after the show but now she's back with a new video and song ‘Don’t You Know?’. I caught up with Claudillea to ask some further questions about her as an artist

You recently shared your latest single 'Don't You Know?' which I believe is about mental health. How's the reception of the song been so far?

- It is! I wanted it to be a song that anyone could turn to when they are in a dark space, one they don't think they will get out of, to remind them that it's going to be okay. Since the release, I've received some beautiful messages from individuals saying that listening to the song lifts their spirits... and that is all I could've dreamed of.

Some interesting information about the video of 'Don't You Know?' is that it was supported by Medklinn, a dynamic and innovative health technology brand. How did this come about?

- I approached Medklinn, after having used their products for years. We spoke about the message of the song and it's purpose of helping anyone struggling, and because they recognised that mental health is incredibly important, they agreed to come onboard as the sponsor of the music video. 

I believe this latest release was written solely by yourself. What is your general writing process?

- I was in the studio with Leo, the producer of DYK, finishing off another track, when he started messing around with these chord progressions. Immediately the melody and words sort of flowed out. This song was definitely written in a state of flow. Other songs I've worked on have not come as easy. My songwriting process changes all the time, depending on who I am writing and working with.  

You blend pop, trap, hip-hop and electronica with your impressive operatic voice - a genre you call OPPOP. Do you think your multicultural background contributed to fusing these broad range of genres?

- I do think being exposed to different cultures and countries opened my eyes up to limitless possibilities. I grew up consuming so many different things when it came to almost everything... different food, languages, culture, lifestyles etc.. that I've never been able to identify as just one thing. That has seeped it's way into my artistry, that I refuse to be labelled as just one thing. 

In 2020 you featured on The Voice, which I can imagine gave you a good boost of exposure. What are your feelings about the TV show? As it can sometimes come under criticism for how it treats contestants after the show.

- It did! Unfortunately it was literally just as Covid hit - so any opportunities to perform live straight after were nulled. However, I take that as a blessing, as it lit the fire under my arse to start writing and get on with creating the music that I am now putting out :)  I'm fortunate to the show for giving me a platform, and the opportunity to work with legends such as Meghan Trainor and Will.I.Am. I also made some life-long friends off that show... so I have nothing but gratitude for that period of my life. 

Who are your influences?

- I would say, Kate Bush, Rosalia, James Blake and Beyonce!

If you could team up with one artist, who would this be?

- James Blake ?

What has been your best gig or show to date?

- I recently collaborated with amazing artist Nat Bowen during London Fashion Week, and was able to perform my new songs for the first time, and that felt amazing! 

Have you got any future shows planned?

- 2022 is going to be my year! Lots in the works :)

Have you got a message for your fans and followers?

- Stop listening to everyone else, do whatever the hell you want to do. You were made to follow your dreams. <3 LOVE OVER FEAR ALWAYS.

Thanks Claudillea - all the best for the future!

Author: Andrew Braithwaite

Andrew is the founder and Managing Director of Music Talkers. He's also a keen music enthusiast and plays the guitar.