As we explore the genesis of her latest single 'Poor Suzy' Scarlett invites us into the enigmatic world she inhabits.

In the ethereal realm where dark folklore intertwines with haunting melodies, Scarlett Woolfe emerges as a captivating force. Hailing from the coastal landscapes of Suffolk, Scarlett's musical journey is steeped in the whispers of the sea and the shadows of familial storytelling. In a Q&A that delves into her profound connection to music, Scarlett reveals the intricate layers of her artistry, ranging from post-punk smoke rock to gothic influences.

For those unfamiliar with your music, can you tell us who you are, where you’re from and about the music you make?

I grew up in Suffolk, between the countryside and the sea. The sea has always spoken to me, I used to think I could hear it whispering to me as a child. On a rainy day I would jump out of bed in my pyjamas and run down to the sea in bare feet, throwing stones, screaming, singing -  a kind of catharsis. The music I make is rooted in some sort of dark folklore and storytelling. Influenced by my grandmothers. One is still alive to tell her tale.. She has a wicked and very dark sense of humour that I have always admired. Since I can remember I have written poems and collected images - trying to make sense of my place in the world. The music is a progression of this. I didn’t grow up around musicians, I grew up around performers, writers, storytellers and magicians. Moving to London and meeting real musicians changed my life, I became obsessed. I wanted to become lost in this world and through this tell these stories. It is constantly morphing and changing, at the moment I think post-punk smoke rock and gothic are good words to describe it.

We love your new single ‘Poor Suzy’. Can you tell us how the single was produced?

I went round in circles for a while trying to get this track sounding right and I finally ended up at Matt Cooke’s studio, he gave us the freedom to experiment and did exactly what I needed without me having to say a word - turned the lights right down and let me disappear into the world of the song.

‘Poor Suzy’ is a powerful song that delves into the experiences of women who have been subject to abuse. Can you share the inspiration behind the song and how it reflects your personal experiences or those of the women around you?

I was unsure about being so transparent, in speaking about the song's themes surrounding ‘abuse’. And then I felt that it was important to speak up about it as so many women in my family, my friends and myself included have had some sort of experience of this kind and we tend to keep it inside ourselves instead of speaking out, resulting in shame, disgust for oneself – it can be an extremely isolating experience. “Suzy” was a way for me to portray all of these women’s experiences, to create a platform in order to speak about it and to in some way, set her free.

The event at The George Tavern "A WOMAN BECOMES A WOLF WHEN SHE LEARNS HOW TO SCREAM" is a unique blend of poetry, performance, conversation, and music. How did the idea for this event come about, and what did you hope to achieve through it?

I wrote the line “A Woman Becomes A Wolf When She Learns How To Scream” in a notebook and came back to it when I was trying to work out what to do for the release ,something wasn’t sticking, I knew I had to think about it differently. Then I realised it wasn’t really about me, I needed to take the energy away from myself and instead create a space for other women to tell their stories. Immediately I felt like I had found the right idea but I wanted to make sure I could create a safe and explorative space surrounding issues of this nature. The George Tavern is an incredible and welcoming venue and I knew I could create a candlelit, seated, intimate atmosphere there.

The event you did on December 17th raised money for Refuge Charity. Can you tell us more about your connection to this cause?

My grandmother’s experienced domestic abuse. It still continues in this era today, it is sickening. Refuge charity is an incredible organisation and runs a 24 freephone helpline service. There was nothing like this in my grandmother’s era, it’s important.

The zine of words, poems, and images related to ‘Poor Suzy’ sounds interesting. How did the concept for this zine come about?

Women inspire me endlessly, but also so many are afraid of their own voice or think their poetry isn’t anything special. I tentatively put it out there to create this zine, I didn’t really know what I was doing, but when the work was sent to me I was moved to tears, I felt empowered by all of these women, it gave me strength and made me feel alive. 

As a five-piece project, how do you navigate the creative process within the band, especially when dealing with emotionally charged subjects like those explored in ‘Poor Suzy’?

My band members are incredibly thoughtful, perceptive individuals. I feel very lucky to be close to each of them individually in a very special, unique way. I would feel at ease to talk to them about anything. Most things that I find interesting are emotionally charged, I don’t think I could write music that isn’t. -  

 Your music and events are deeply connected to themes of empowerment and resilience. How do you hope your audience feels and reacts after experiencing your performances and engaging with your art?

The audience’s responses have really empowered me and allowed me to grow over the past year. I came into this project when I felt like I had nothing left and nothing made sense. I still feel like I am fumbling around, one day woman, one day child, … but on stage I feel fearless and feral –I want others to feel fearless too. We need that right now, it’s a mad time to be alive.

What do you love right now?

300 Arguments - Sarah Manguso.

What do you hate right now?

TFL.

Name an album you’re still listening to from when you were younger and why it’s still important to you?

Suzanne Vega - Solitude Standing

My mother had it on a record that she had bought as a student. I didn’t realise the meaning behind “Luka” until I was older and of course it resonated with me. Tom’s Diner is one of the most amazing things I’ve ever heard, just her voice, the narrative, the storytelling. I am always completely spellbound, no matter how many times I have listened.

Looking ahead, what are the future plans and aspirations for Scarlett Woolfe? Are there any upcoming projects or collaborations on the horizon that you're excited about? 

I want to keep creating. I want to record the album. I want to let the songs out into the world and for people to resonate, cry, connect and scream their truths.