A MEETING WITH CHARLOTTE LAWRENCE FROM CRASH 93

By Alice Butterlin

Composing her own songs since the age of thirteen, Charlotte Lawrence grew up between Hollywood studios and her teenage bedroom, raised by her TV producer father and actress mother. She could have become the new star of American independent film, but she ultimately turned to music, collaborating with the top names in contemporary pop from Los Angeles, including Charlie Puth and Sasha Sloan. Discover this exclusive interview with Charlotte from Crash 93.

You grew up around Hollywood, in a family that works in the entertainment industry. Would you say it is a curse or a blessing?

I’d say it was a little bit of both—I definitely grew up very fast. But, I was able to pursue my dreams and work my ass off on my music in a city filled with wonderful creative artists. So I’d say more blessing than curse. I wouldn’t have had it any other way.

Did you ever consider acting before deciding to pursue music?

Honestly, no I didn’t. I was always obsessed with music and singing and harmonizing since I’ve been very, very little. Music was always my passion—I never drifted. However, I’m also not opposed to acting. I love all aspects of creativity and would be down to try anything if it felt right.

When did you really get into writing music? Did you learn any instruments?

I started writing when I was about twelve. I took piano lessons for years when I was a kid, which was what got me into writing. My piano teacher Jamie really believed in me and pushed me to work hard on my passion. Soon piano lessons turned into writing music together, singing together and learning how to play songs I wrote (even though they were absolute shit—I was twelve).

Growing up, who were some singers and musicians that you looked up to?

I’ve always idolized Justin Vernon from Bon Iver, Damien Rice, The Beatles, The Red Hot Chili Peppers, Madonna, Avril Lavigne… An ideal mixture between deeply depressing emotional songs, vibey rock music, and iconic queens. The one thing they have in common is a unique style and amazing lyrics.

What is the music scene like in L.A.? Is it easy to build bridges between genres and scenes?

I think the music scene is wonderful in L.A.. I’ve only been treated with absolute kindness and love by everyone from singers to writers to producers. At least from my experience it feels like there’s a mutual respect between hard working artists and creatives. As much as it’s a beautiful incredible blessing, it’s also a hard job to have a lot of vulnerability.

Outside of music, what are some of your passions?

I’ve recently taken up beading during quarantine. But, very seriously in an absolutely crazy way. I don’t have a dining table anymore—it’s a full beading station. I go crazy on Etsy with the beads. Maybe I’ll start selling them? They’re honestly cool and I’ve mastered my technique!

What story did you want to tell through your EP? Is it a very personal project?

It is a very personal project! I’ve poured my heart and soul into it. Less than a story I want to tell, it’s more so just me and my experiences from the past three years jammed into a little EP.

What is your favorite subject to write about in your music?

My favorite subject to write about is heartbreak.

What is your relationship to fashion? Where do you find inspiration?

I love vintage. I love colors, tie-dye and eccentric fun unique pieces. Or cozy clothes. Mostly cozy clothes!

What is your view on the impact of social media on our lives?

I think it creates beautiful and wonderful opportunities while also messing with our heads and self-image. Many positives and many negatives. Sometimes I get sad when I see a young kid on Instagram or Tik Tok. When I was a kid my imagination and the outdoors brought me more joy than ever. Sometimes I wish people would live more in the real world than on their screens. But in another sense I wouldn’t be able to do what I love most without social media. So who knows!

How do you see the future of live music?

I’m hoping it will eventually go back to normal. People need art, it fuels the soul, and one of the best experiences in the world is a concert. Bouncing off of the performers’ energy and the people next to you—some of the best nights of my life have been at live shows! Praying they eventually come back – once it’s completely safe.

Are you worried or are you trying to remain optimistic?

I am definitely optimistic for the future.
If you could change one thing in the world, what would it be?
For all children and animals to be loved and fed and cared for.