Hailing from the wind-beaten stages of the lower North Island to late-night sessions deep in the Taranaki back blocks, Karen Clarke has been holding down the groove for decades and she’s on a mission to entertain! Now a rising force in Aotearoa’s indie blues scene, her live show hits like a freight train. Energetic. Raw. Honest. Gutsy. She's well and truly earned her piece of the NZ heartland acoustic music stage.
Expect plenty of upbeat bluesy vibes, warm vocals and driving rhythms. A mix of gritty, groove-driven blues, rootsy feels, a side serve of dark country with an occasional jazz dalliance. Strong originals and up-cycled favourites. If you’re after clichéd boy-blues, keep walking - this indie mama owns her own damn sound. Clarke has got pipes for sure. Fans appreciate hints of Tracey Chapman, Michelle Shocked, Amy Winehouse, Whirimako Black and Billie Holiday in her silk to gravel mahogany vocal palette as she channels Sister Loretta Tharp's 'mother of blues' on stage determination.
Karen is a favourite at festivals, bars, cafes and events around the North Island weaving warm, intimate audience connection as the aroha seeps through her songs. You'll remember you've met. One woman. One Guitar. All the damn feelings.
KOHA
If you would like to support Karen's music through koha you are welcome to do it here. Your koha (contribution) will be very gratefully accepted and help keep the songs and smiles flowing in a world that greatly needs that!