Canadian vocalist Carlyn has been on a remarkable creative journey—one that’s taken her from Annapolis, Maryland, to Montreal, Québec, and now onto global stages. In a warm and candid conversation with Maxine at the Fossil and Nexus Lounge, Carlyn reflected on milestones that go far beyond fashion or travel, revealing how connection, timing, and storytelling continue to shape her distinctive blend of pop and indie pop.
Experiencing Europe for the first time, Carlyn described the trip as nothing short of magical. The romance and beauty of Amsterdam left a deep impression, fueling her creative spirit as she embraced every moment with boundless energy. A self-described lover of fashion and experience, she laughed about running on little sleep, determined to soak up every second of inspiration the city had to offer.
The conversation took an innovative turn with talk of wearable design—specifically, a watch embedded in a ring. For a performer constantly balancing schedules without wanting to appear distracted, Carlyn called the idea “genius,” highlighting how thoughtful design can support creativity rather than interrupt it.
One of the interview’s standout moments came when Carlyn shared the story behind her collaboration with Hardwell on the track “Sanctuary.” What began as a last-minute studio call quickly became a career-defining experience when she learned the song would open Ultra Miami just weeks later. For Carlyn, it was a powerful example of patience meeting perfect timing—a reminder that preparation often aligns with opportunity in unexpected ways.
Songwriting remains at the core of Carlyn’s artistry. Drawing from her theater background, she begins with story first, transforming narratives into melodies that feel intimate and relatable. Working closely with Toronto-based producers Illegal Audio, she’s continued to evolve from her debut album into new material she describes as a creative “glow up,” both emotionally and sonically.
When asked how she stays inspired, Carlyn emphasized the importance of surrounding herself with the right people. Open communication and trust, she explained, are essential when creating art—without them, the process simply doesn’t work. That sense of collaboration and support fuels her momentum.
In a playful moment, Carlyn likened her music to Parmesan cheese—versatile, rich, and full of real substance. The analogy perfectly captured her enthusiasm and her belief that music should add depth and flavor wherever it appears. Looking ahead, she also shared plans to reconnect with her roots as a dancer, integrating movement into her live performances to further enhance storytelling on stage.
Closing the interview with heartfelt advice, Carlyn reminded listeners to practice self-love and compassion. Confidence, she noted, is a skill that can be learned—and sometimes faked—until it becomes real. In a challenging world, giving yourself grace is part of the creative journey. Listen to the full interview below.
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