Interview: The Glass Child

The Glass Child is the brainchild of Swedish musician and writer, Charlotte Eriksson. At only 21-years-old, Eriksson has accomplished a lot, with the publication of two books, numerous musical releases and the production of some of the most beautiful poetry you’ll read. Last month, Legendary Kids Press was able to speak to the young artist about her foray into music, her inspirations and how she manages to keep on top of everything.
How would you describe your music to those who have never listened to it before?
I’d say raw, organic, bold and honest. Genre wise, I think it’s something in-between alternative pop and acoustic rock.
What inspired you to get involved in music?
Ever since the moment I “discovered” music and how it made me feel like I belonged, I knew I wanted to spend my life creating that feeling for others. That’s what drives me every single day.
You decided to pursue music when you were 18. How have the events in your life since shaped your sound and lyrics?
I’ve been on quite a journey the last few years, trying to pave my way in this world, and that has definitely shaped my music in every way. I write music in order to make sense of what I see, hear and think about, so my [own] is, in a way, how I figure out my own reality.
Where does your moniker “The Glass Child” come from?
It comes from when I was younger, and has stayed with me up until now. The symbols and values that lie under “The Glass Child” mean a lot to me and represent a lot that I want to stand for. It’s about the balance between wanting to be seen and heard through my music, but at the same time wanting to protect myself from being hurt and misunderstood; the feeling of putting myself up for the world to see and be a part of, but sort of trying to stay at a distance, like behind a piece of glass - so they can see me, but not really reach me. [It’s] a contradiction I’m still trying to figure out.
You’ve released five EPs and two full-lengths, with your single “I Will Lead You Home” reaching #2 on the Swedish iTunes charts. How would you say your sound has evolved?
I think my sound is changing with my personality. Naturally, you grow and learn as a person when you move to new countries, meet new people and understand new feelings. With every new song I write, I try to produce it so that the sound represents who I am at [that] moment.
Your sound is very mature, with your singles “Letdown” and “The Fall” showcasing a beautiful array of vocals and melodies. Is there a specific reason why you chose to take your music in the direction you did?
Thank you! I think the arrangements and sounds just happen very naturally. I produce my records myself, so the production part is just another way for me to be creative and express the feelings I’m trying to communicate through the song.
You started your own label, Broken Glass Records. Why choose to create your own, rather than go with a major or indie label?
Releasing my music on my own record label is a way for me to have 100% control of my career, life and music. I’m very sure about who I am and what I want to create for the world, so it never made sense to me to have another label telling me what’s good enough or not.
On top of your music, you’ve published a book, Empty Roads & Broken Bottles; in search of The Great Perhaps, and will be releasing your second later this year. You also write poetry. Where do you find the inspiration for your work?
Writing poetry and books is just another way for me to tell my story. I’ve always been reading a lot - A LOT - so the writing process always happens very naturally every day, like a journal. It’s been such a beautiful experience to see how my fans have been able to understand my journey and personality even [more] through my books.
Editor’s note: Charlotte’s second book, Another Vagabond Lost To Love, is available now.
Any last words?
Please come and talk to me on Twitter, Instagram, Tumblr or Facebook. I always reply, and I always want to meet new people.
You can find Charlotte’s music on iTunes, and be sure to purchase Empty Roads & Broken Bottles; in search of The Great Perhaps via her website.
