Chloe Key Visits Section 36 Music!

Another incredible artist visited Section 36 Music! Chloe Key released a single, "Never Stop Saying I Love You", a few months ago that you need to stream as soon as you can! I was so flattered that she wanted to visit with us to discuss the single, her musical goals, and more!

So, let's see what happens when Chloe Key visits Section 36 Music!

Your latest single, “Never Stop Saying I Love You”, is simply outstanding. What can you tell me about it?

This song was very special and important for me to write, as it was inspired by the loss of someone incredibly close to me. In June of 2024, I found out that the mother of one of my lifelong best friends had passed away. Because she had been such a constant presence throughout my childhood, she always felt like a second mother to me.

Her passing brought a wave of complex and confusing emotions, and I knew I wanted to write something that not only served as a memory of her, but also honored the kind of person she was to everyone around her.

I eventually performed this song at her memorial that October, as well as at the finals of the annual Bernard Ebb Songwriting Awards. In both moments, it felt right, like I had truly honored her in the end.

What do you enjoy most about performing on stage in front of an audience?

I’ve always struggled with stage fright. Especially as a kid. Public speaking has consistently been one of the most anxiety-inducing things for me. Every time I do it, I feel like I might choke up and cry. But somehow, I can’t help but get up on that stage. I want to live there.

Every time I step in front of an audience with just my guitar and my voice, I feel complete. It’s something I can’t shy away from, no matter how scared or overwhelmed I am. Despite all the overthinking, I love that stage, whether it’s a spotlighted theater, a gazebo, or even a sidewalk.

Sharing what I love with others fills my heart with a joy I can’t even begin to explain.

You are attending Berklee College of Music. What made Berklee the right place for you?

Before my senior year of high school, I never imagined myself attending a four-year college, especially not a prestigious music school like Berklee. The cost and scale of it all felt intimidating and out of reach. But once I discovered I could apply, and realized I had people in my life who truly believed in me and were willing to support me, everything changed. With my family, I created a plan I could believe in. I’m beyond grateful to now have the opportunity to attend such an incredible school.

One of the biggest turning points for me was attending Interlochen Arts Camp back in the summers of 2023 and 2024. The environment there was unlike anything I’d ever experienced. An entire place filled with creative, driven people who lived and breathed music and collaboration. It was a place where art felt sacred and community-driven. That experience reminded me how transformative it can be to surround yourself with people who share your passion. I’ll always be thankful for the inspiration and friendships I found there.

From then on, Berklee felt like a natural next step. I know that Berklee will not only challenge me musically, but also help me grow as a storyteller, performer, and collaborator. It’s where I’ll learn how to shape my voice and dreams into something meaningful and sustainable.

Who or what would you consider your biggest musical influences?

I consider my biggest musical influences to be artists like FINNEAS, Joni Mitchell, Brandi Carlile, Adrianne Lenker, Foo Fighters, and Cavetown. Lately, I’ve also been deeply inspired by Faye Webster and a lot of rock from the ’90s which are sounds that continue to shape the way I approach songwriting and performance.

But above all, my greatest sources of inspiration are my family and my incredible friends. Their support and encouragement  have carried me through every step of my musical journey, and for that, I’ll always be beyond grateful.

What is the most challenging part of your music career?

One of the most challenging parts of my musical journey so far has been building a stable and consistent audience for my work. As an emerging artist, it can be difficult to break through the barriers, especially in a world where content is constant, and attention spans are short. I pour so much of myself into each song I write, and while the creative process is deeply fulfilling, there’s always that vulnerable moment of release, truly wondering if anyone will really hear my words and connect with them.

Because that's the purpose. Cultivating a genuine connection with listeners who resonate with my music, who see themselves in my stories. That kind of connection takes patience and trust which are things that can feel daunting when you’re still trying to find your place in the industry. But I’ve come to realize that it’s a slow burn. Every person who takes the time to really listen, who comes to a show or sends a message about a lyric that meant something to them, that’s what really keeps me going besides my passion.

I know that with honesty, persistence, and community, my audience will continue to grow, and even when it feels uncertain, I hold on to the belief that if I keep creating from a real and vulnerable place, the right people will find it.

What are your immediate music goals?

My immediate goals are to inspire others and move people through my music. I want to continue writing songs that come from an honest place, ones that make people feel seen, understood, and less alone. At the same time, I want to keep improving my craft, both as a songwriter and performer. Writing more, experimenting with new sounds, and pushing myself creatively are all things I’m focused on right now. Every step forward, no matter how small, brings me closer to the artist I want to become.

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Hopefully we can help her build that community!

As always, I want to thank Chloe for visiting with us, and for sending along the pictures to accompany the interview.

I'm sure you’ll all want to follow her and see what she has going on. I would follow her on Instagram, and Spotify to make sure you don't miss a thing. 

Thanks, Chloe, and good luck reaching your goals!