We first saw Andrea, 17-year-old singer songwriter, at the Stand Up To Bullying concert at Tsongas Arena a couple of years ago, and we knew we wanted to hear more. It is rare to see young singers perform 100% live and sound like it is a performance worthy of recording, but Andrea has a rare melodic, smoky and pure voice that is naturally effortless. Her multi-octave voice has a hint of rasp and tonal accuracy that is smooth and comforting. She has a powerful combination of jazz and soul that that captivates audiences and attracts heavy online viewing attention. Andrea is also a serious songwriter who focuses on caring topics. The anti-bullying song, “Never Look Down”, was written to help kids who are bullied to stand tall and strong. The chorus sends a powerful message… “Strong is pretending everything’s alright, and strong is smiling when your throat is tight”.
Andrea has performed at several Music On & Up events including the Keene Pumpkin Festival, the Hampton Beach Seashell Stage, and she was a Grand Finale Finalist in the Music On & Up Showcase. She is also very involved in her school’s theater group and has been in the lead role of many productions.
As her online bio highlighted, Andrea wrote the theme song to Standup 2011 (sponsored by McDonalds), collaborated with Issa Pointer (of the multi-platinum Pointer Sisters), and was selected to write a song for an award winning PBS documentary entitled “GOODNIGHT” highlighting the career of legendary Image Maker, Paul Goodnight.
Her most viewed video on YouTube is “What’s Right” and it has over 100,000 views. Andrea was inspired to write the song about a brave soldier and his inspirational wife who cherishes his memory after he gives his life for our country. The project is designed to entice patrons to donate money to the MA Troop Welfare Council and support the families of fallen and injured troops. The MA Troop Welfare Council will donate all of the proceeds from the sales of this song on iTunes to the organization so that they can be used to benefit those who have lost a brave soldier of their own.
We were impressed to learn at the time we did this interview, that Andrea was just admitted to the Clive Davis Institute of Recorded Music at New York University, a highly competitive school. The program is the first of its kind to provide professional business and artistic training toward a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree for aspiring creative entrepreneurs in the music industry.
Andrea’s on stage beauty and captivating vocals make her a standout performer, and one who will attract top industry attention. We will look forward to hearing new originals and following her career as a singer songwriter and music entrepreneur.
How long have you been performing and practicing music?
I’ve been performing since I was really young, around seven years old.
What was it that sparked your interest?
My mom put me in dance, and there was always a singing lesson going on in the room next door. I was always more interested in what was going on in that room than my dance lesson, so I transitioned over to singing lessons.
Describe your music. What type of artist are you?
It’s changed a lot I think mainly because I get inspired from many different styles of music, but my heart lies with soul and jazz.
Where do you train?
I am currently training with Claudia Neault from Bridgewater, MA.
How long have you been writing music?
I’ve been writing since the 6th grade. I love to write about love and heartbreak for the most part. I have my originals out on iTunes and YouTube. I have written songs about anti-bullying, and one for veterans as well. Please check them out!
What artists have been your biggest inspiration?
I love Alicia Keys, Tori Kelly, Sara Bareilles, Sam Smith, Elton John, Frank Sinatra, Beyonce, John Mayer, etc. It’s a very long list!
What are your top music goals?
My top goals are to be successful in the music business; as an artist, writer,and entrepreneur. Whatever it may be, I know I’m supposed to be in this game.
What/who inspires you when you write music?
Usually my relationships at the time, or a movie/book I’m interested in. I am kind of a hopeless romantic.
What has been your major accomplishment?
One of the things I am most proud of is my acceptance into New York University’s Clive Davis Recorded Artist Program! Only 40/400 are admitted so I feel extremely honored to attend and really turn my music passion into my career.
What are your biggest challenges?
Performing and writing up tempo pop songs. I really love old music and songs that aren’t really on the radio, so it’s hard for me to play songs that please all audiences.
What are your plans for summer?
To record, write, gig, and save money for college.
What advice do you have for artists starting out?
Focus on the music, I feel like I see too many artists trying to make people buy their CDs and follow them on twitter and what not. People should let that stuff come naturally. If you’re good enough, you’ll get somewhere. For me it’s all about the quality and passion behind a musician.
What are your weaknesses and what do you do to overcome them?
My weaknesses are definitely being too acoustic and maybe not “pop” enough for the radio or the average listener. I feel I need to sing less slow songs and more up tempo songs!
What was your favorite gig?
My favorite gig was singing at Mayor of Boston, Marty Walsh’s Inauguration,, my junior year of High school.
What social channels are you on and what sites do you recommend artists be on?
Twitter: andrea_leClaire
Facebook: andrea leclaire
Instagram: andrea_leclaire