Singer-songwriter Clara Rae joins The Fable House Podcast for a candid conversation and live performance, sharing her journey as an independent artist navigating Nashville, Tennessee, and the evolving music industry.
In this episode, Clara reflects on living and working in Nashville, describing it as the perfect “happy medium” compared to cities like New York, New Orleans, and Austin—especially for creatives in the entertainment industry. Filmed just minutes from downtown Nashville and within driving distance of Franklin and Murfreesboro, the conversation touches on the balance Nashville offers between city life and the availability of rural property just outside town.
Clara also dives into the story behind her upcoming project, tentatively titled the “Dive Bar Troubadour” album. The album is inspired by journals she kept during a serious breakup around age 18 or 19, as well as reflections on her home life and the perspectives of friends and family at the time. While many of the songs center on difficult and unhealthy relationships, Clara finds it ironic given that she’s currently in a deeply supportive, loving marriage. Her husband, Zane, also plays bass in her band.
Currently recording in Nashville, Clara shares what it’s been like working with multiple producers who value her creative input, as well as collaborating with musicians from the Delta region she’s known for over five years—bringing both community and familiarity into the studio process.
Timestamps:
00:00 – Introduction
01:10 – Why Nashville is the perfect middle ground
04:05 – Growing up in the Louisiana music scene
07:20 – Learning music through church & early instruments
10:15 – The moment that made music feel real (Tim McGraw story)
13:40 – Moving to Nashville & building a life there
17:10 – Social media growth & staying consistent
20:30 – Writing through heartbreak & journaling
24:05 – The “Troubadour” album concept
28:10 – Recording in Nashville & trusted collaborators
31:45 – Motivation, doubt & proving people wrong
35:10 – Preparing for a live performance