The Visionary : Chloe Qisha
Credit : Eleonora C. Collini
Credit : Eleonora C. Collini
This year has been a whirlwind for Chloe Qisha, whose meteoric rise in the music world feels both sudden and inevitable. With the release of her self-titled EP, the Malaysian-born, UK-based artist has introduced a bold, cohesive vision of pop music that straddles eras and emotions. Chloe’s work resonates deeply not only because of its catchy, intricate melodies but also due to the emotional honesty woven throughout her lyrics. It’s no surprise that critics and fans alike have rallied behind her, praising the EP as one of the most exciting debuts in recent memory.
Credit : Press
At the core of Chloe’s artistry is her ability to craft music that feels both timeless and contemporary. Drawing on influences ranging from ABBA to LCD Soundsystem, her sound captures the essence of 80s nostalgia while remaining firmly rooted in today’s pop sensibilities. Tracks like I Lied, I’m Sorry blend shimmering synths with groovy basslines, creating a soundscape that transports listeners to a neon-lit dancefloor. But beneath the polished production lies a narrative brimming with ambiguity—are her whispered apologies genuine, or is there an undercurrent of playful manipulation? The EP’s standout track, Evelyn, takes a different approach, veering into pop-punk territory with crunchy guitar riffs and raw, visceral lyrics. Here, Chloe confronts the darker sides of jealousy and unrequited love, peeling back layers of composure to reveal a deeply human vulnerability. “She’s everything; I wanna crawl into her skin,” she confesses, encapsulating the universal yet often unspoken feelings of inadequacy and envy.
In interviews, Chloe has expressed her desire to be a storyteller above all else. This ethos is evident in her music, where each song unfolds like a scene in a larger narrative. Whether it’s the disco-tinged sass of Sexy Goodbye or the introspective balladry of VCR Home Video, every track offers a glimpse into a different facet of Chloe’s life and imagination. Her collaboration with producer and co-writer Rob Milton has been pivotal in shaping her songwriting process. Describing their dynamic, Chloe notes how Milton’s ability to draw stories out of her has pushed her to elevate her lyricism. This partnership has resulted in songs that feel personal yet universally relatable, filled with sharp wit and evocative imagery. Consider Scary Movie, a track that uses horror metaphors to explore anxieties surrounding relationships and the future. With its hushed vocals and moody synths, the song mirrors the tension of a psychological thriller, capturing the unease of stepping into the unknown.
Chloe’s commitment to storytelling extends beyond her music to her meticulously crafted visuals. Her EP is accompanied by a cohesive aesthetic that draws on cinematic influences, with a bold red and black color palette and retro-inspired costumes. Collaborating with creative director Lillie Eiger, Chloe has built a Twin Peaks-esque world that feels both nostalgic and avant-garde. In one music video, she dons a sharp suit, juxtaposing masculine tailoring with her feminine allure—a deliberate choice to reflect the duality within her identity. These visual elements don’t merely complement the music; they enhance it, creating a multidimensional experience for the audience. Chloe’s journey to this point has been anything but linear. Initially pursuing a degree in psychology, she once envisioned herself as a therapist. But as she delved deeper into music during university, she discovered a different way to connect with people—through the emotional resonance of her songs.
Her decision to pivot toward a career in music wasn’t without its challenges. The industry, as she has pointed out, often feels like a mystery to outsiders. Yet Chloe’s resilience and willingness to take risks have propelled her forward, culminating in a debut EP that feels both polished and heartfelt. The success of Chloe Qisha’s debut EP has set the stage for an exciting 2024. With plans for more live performances and new music on the horizon, Chloe is poised to solidify her place as one of pop’s most promising talents. “There’s no break in the Chloe Qisha world,” she teases, hinting at an ambitious slate of upcoming projects.
Her music raises thought-provoking questions about identity, love, and the human experience. What does it mean to reconcile our nostalgia for the past with the demands of the present? How do we balance vulnerability with self-assurance? And perhaps most intriguingly, what does Chloe Qisha’s next chapter look like? One thing is certain: Chloe’s ability to blend introspection with infectious melodies ensures that whatever comes next will be as impactful as her debut. Whether you’re drawn to the heartbreak of Evelyn, the playful defiance of Sexy Goodbye, or the quiet reflection of VCR Home Video, there’s something in Chloe’s music for everyone—and that’s the mark of a true storyteller.
