Paper Citizen, the Boston-based indie rock project led by Singaporean singer-songwriter, violinist, guitarist, and music producer Claire Gohst, is making waves in the music scene with its distinctive blend of crisp vocals, lyrical intimacy, spacious guitars, and organic rhythms. Claire’s journey began in Singapore, where she was born and raised. Her musical roots were planted early, starting with piano and violin lessons in her youth and studying classical music. By 16, Claire was teaching her first violin lessons, signaling her dedication to the craft.
After finishing secondary school, Claire chose to pursue music full-time. She started performing gigs around Singapore in 2004 with her first local band, Zsa+Claire, delivering a mix of folk, acoustic, and rock originals and covers. This initial phase of her career laid a strong foundation for her artistic development. In 2013, Claire made a pivotal move to Boston to further her education in the recording arts and to immerse herself in the rich history of American music. This decision marked a significant turning point, as she began to blend her artistic message with the musical influences and technological skills she acquired.
The result of this melding of experiences and skills is Paper Citizen, an indie rock project that captures the essence of Claire’s journey. Currently, Paper Citizen is in the midst of recording her second EP, “Distraction.” This album draws from Claire’s deeply personal experiences over the past five years, including her cultural transition from East to West, discovering new music, falling in love, heartbreak, loneliness, and the process of making Boston her new home. The themes of the album also reflect broader societal trends, such as the tension between the constant interconnectedness provided by modern technology and the increasing sense of isolation and difficulty in forming genuine connections.
Paper Citizen has garnered recognition for its unique sound and impactful music. She was voted Deli Magazine’s “New England Emerging Artist of the Month” for October 2016 and received nominations in the 2017 New England Music Awards for New Act of the Year and the 2018 Boston Music Awards for “617 Sessions Artist of the Year.” This recognition underscores the growing appreciation for Claire’s work and the resonance it has with audiences.
Building on this momentum, Paper Citizen has released a new single, “American Song,” on June 28, 2024. This track is the lead single from her forthcoming album and serves as Claire’s tribute to her love for American music and her nostalgia for how live music has evolved over the last decade. “American Song” encapsulates the essence of Claire’s artistic journey and the profound influence of American music on her life and work. With its anticipated release, Paper Citizen continues to carve out a unique space in the indie rock landscape, blending personal and societal reflections into a compelling musical experience.
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