Based: Cape Town
Claire Phillips, Vocalist, songwriter and musician, is recognized and respected as one of South Africa’s most talented artist.
Hailing from Belhar, a suburb on the Cape Flats. Claire began singing as a toddler, now referred to by many as a musical genius. Claire has the ability to play guitar, piano, saxophone and drums but wields her semi acoustic and acoustic guitar as her instrument of choice.
Her first forays onto the professional stage were as a cover artist, but she opted to build her own repertoire, and completed her debut album “Say my Name” produced by Patrick “Caramel” Hickey in 2006.
Claire’s instantly recognizable voice, unique style and her ability to transport listeners to a different space in time rapidly elevated her album to the top of the S.A. Charts.
In 2007 Claire’s album was nominated for a SA MUSIC AWARD “SAMA” in the category for Best R&B / Soul album, which she eventually won, making her the first South African Artist to win a SAMA for a debut album.
She received standing ovations across the country, selling out thousands of seats at some of the country’s premiere venues and exclusive events for her solo performances as well as performing alongside South African music giants Freshlyground, EJ von Lyric, Prime Circle, Loyisa Bala and Oskido to name a few.
With Claire’s ability to mesmerize audiences she continued to grow working with internationally renowned Diane Reeves, Rochelle Farrell, Jonas Rendbo and Reggae icon Eddie Grant.
In late 2008 while living in Johannesburg, Claire’s mother fell ill with cancer, leaving her torn between her music and family; she instinctively chose the latter.
In 2010, Claire performed at the opening of South Africa’s first Soccer World Cup, as well as fan parks across the country for the duration of the world cup; In 2011, Claire launched a series of Intimate Acoustic events in Cape Town called “UpClose&Personal” with Claire Phillips, which gave fans a chance to get “UpClose&Personal” with the Diva as she works on her new Album and Music Video for 2012, “Claire Phillips by Request”