After a brief hiatus in 2023, acclaimed singer-songwriter Carrie Baxter returns with her highly anticipated EP, Keep Swimming. Leading the project is the sultry, neo-soul-inspired single ‘In The Morning’ marking a new chapter in Baxter’s artistic journey. Known for her unique fusion of jazz, soul, and R&B, the artist’s music has drawn comparisons to legends like Amy Winehouse and Erykah Badu. In this interview, we explore the creative process behind her latest work, her influences, and the evolution of her sound following a period of personal and artistic renewal.
Welcome to Unrecorded! For those who aren’t familiar with Carrie Baxter, can you introduce yourself?
Hey Unrecorded, Im an Irish artist based in London who makes soulful R&B music
Let’s dive right in and talk about your single ‘In The Morning’ what does this release mean to you?
Releasing ‘In the Morning’ is one of the first times Im releasing music that I wrote this year. Over the years Ive sat on music or not released it at all due to a number of factors, sometimes perfectionism, I can’t finish it or I dont think its good enough – which are sometimes valid thoughts but sometimes it can hinder your progress so this track and this entire EP were a group of songs that I didn’t know where to put them in my release schedule so I thought, yano what, these are all sonically in the same world, so lets put them out as a project. ‘In the Morning’ sits in a Neo soul world which is a style Ive wanted to put my spin on for a while and I really enjoyed the different style of writing it brought out in me.
What is it about soulful music that engages you so much?
I love everything about soul music, its definitely the chords and drum grooves that get me first and foremost but also the space that is usually found around the vocals, its gives the artist room to let lyrics land. Mostly I think soul is heart and it makes me feel something that I dont find in all other genres.
Who are some of the major influences on your sound?
Ohh tough question. Maverick Sabre is a huge influence on how I write and sing. Erykah Badu has influenced by rhythm. I was listening to a lot of Amel Larrieux & Jill Scott when I wrote this track too.
Who would be your dream collaboration?
Kendrick Lamar
Who are some newer bands and artists currently on your listening rotation right now?
I am one of those people who listens to the same music over and over again to be honest but some newer people Im listening to cross quiet a few genres. Monjola who’s from Ireland too, love his new project. MPH , love his new project too and I love my friends work James Berkeley who’s part of an awesome band Yakul – really dig what they do.
You moved from Ireland to London, did music help you navigate your identity and find connection with others in the city?
I think the city and the people Ive met here gave me music. I dont think I knew who I was before I moved here.I never wrote music or sang really until I was about 4/5 years into living here. It really showed me who I wanted to be. It’s been a long journey from then until now with a lot of ups and downs but I wouldn’t change the learning for anything. Once I connected deeply with myself I started to meet others who I aligned with, thats when the fun really started.
Do you have any advice for fellow or future songwriters who want to branch out of their comfort zone?
Everyone has their own journey and path to walk but I would say to anyone aspiring, take your time, get to know yourself and practice your craft. Keep writing over and over again and then be bold with your work. Get used to listening to your own gut instincts more than peoples opinions. Develop and unshakable belief in yourself.
I like that quote actually : Luck is what happens when preparation meets opportunity.
And lastly, what can fans expect from Carrie this year?
For the remainder of the year Ill put my EP out. Im going to put on a small London show where Ill also be playing some of my work coming out next year which hopefully If I can get it done will be my debut album in 2025
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