by martina rexrode
photo by abbie pitre
Genevieve Stokes is an alt-pop singer-songwriter who embraces vulnerability and honesty in her music. She takes inspiration from artists like Regina Spektor and Fiona Apple with haunting instrumentals and a clear creative vision. Her latest EP Chasing Rabbits is the first chapter of what will become a multi-project journey that introduces listeners to her innermost feelings. Check out Genevieve on Instagram (@chowdergiirl) to keep up with her journey!
Congratulations on the new EP! How does it feel to have these songs out in the world?
Genevieve: “Thank you! Release week is always nerve-racking for me, but now I just feel relieved and happy to finally share this project with people.”
You also released a music video for “Book of Memories.” What is the story you hope to convey with the visualization of your lyrics?
Genevieve: “I wanted the video to feel warped and chaotic, like being trapped in a thought loop during a bad trip.”
Where do you pull inspiration from for your music video direction?
Genevieve: “Mainly from movies! The Wickerman, Donnie Darko, The Lighthouse, and a few different Alice in Wonderland adaptations were my biggest inspirations for this EP.”
In what ways does the Catching Rabbits EP differ from your previous releases?
Genevieve: “I’ve always written very emotional music, but releasing this project felt uncomfortably vulnerable for me. The more honest my writing is, the scarier it is to share with people, but I also think that’s the kind of music people truly connect with.”
How did writing and creating this EP allow you to unlock and heal your inner child?
Genevieve: “I struggle a lot with shame and self doubt, so I’ve been working on creating music from a place of self acceptance — much like the way I used to when I was younger. I don't feel very healed, but I do feel more open to change and growth as a person/artist.”
Were there any specific influences from your childhood that helped you in doing that (TV, movies, music, books)?
Genevieve: “I was influenced by fairytales and children’s stories like Alice in Wonderland. My siblings and I would spend all out time outside creating fantasy worlds, and somehow we’re still living together and creating art.”
What can you tell us about how Catching Rabbits sets up the first chapter of a “storybook” that will become your future full-length album?
Genevieve: “I think of this project as the beginning of a long, multi-project journey where I’ll be using symbolism from the major arcana of tarot. My first album will be centered around The Tower card.”
What do you hope listeners can take from your EP?
Genevieve: “I just hope people resonate with it and want to stick around for more music!”