photos by Kai Dickson

We’ve all been on the receiving end of someone who just couldn’t follow through. But not all of us can create a kickass track about it like Chloe Star‘s new single “You Say,” the latest in a run of 2026 releases that includes “emergency contact,” “call you back,” and “i didn’t wanna say goodbye.”

“I wrote this for anyone who’s ever been ghosted, left on read, or promised ‘I’m on the way’ by someone who never shows up” she shared.

Born of Indigenous and Persian heritage and raised between Los Angeles and her family’s reservation in San Bernardino, she made her debut in 2023 and has released two EPs, the bed i lie in (2024) and Apt. 1101 (2025), earning praise from publications like CLASH, 1883 Magazine, Just Jared, and EUPHORIA. Queer herself and a fierce advocate for marginalized voices, her music feels deeply personal without ever losing its universal pull. In 2025 she expanded her reach to new audiences with her Pride Tour in the US and the UK.

And while the rising alt-pop artist has her schedule full, she managed to sit down with us for an exclusive interview that lets you get to know the rock & roll woman behind the music.

You have a great track record of making music about unkept promises, one-sided love, showing up for others who are nowhere to be found when you need them and, as you put it in your most recent single “You Say,” getting your wings broken. What’s your process? How do you go about turning something that painful into a song? 

I feel like turning pain into art is the only way of healing for me. It’s either I turn my pain into something creative or I become self-destructive. Honestly, it’s a pretty easy process because when it comes to releasing these feelings, they all just organically come out. There is no push or struggle because it’s so therapeutic. It’s as easy as grabbing a guitar and just talking through what’s going on. It all eventually comes pouring out.  

“GTA your heart” and “he smells like body spray and 3-in-1 cheap ass shampoo” lyrics are some of the wittiest lines I’ve heard in a while. Do these lines come to you on the spot, or is there a lot of drafting and rewriting involved?

They definitely come on the spot because it’s just storytelling. Most of the time I’m just explaining the situation to the people I’m in a session with and it just comes out that way. I love the process of writing a song and bouncing ideas off each other in the studio session. It’s so much fun!

Your music videos stand out, the choreography and direction feel like a natural extension of the emotion in the songs. How do you find collaborators who understand that, and what does it take for you to trust someone with your vision?

Everyone needs to be on the same page when collaboratively creating and so far it’s been amazing. I’ve been so grateful to have other creatives help me share my stories with the world visually.

You’ve talked about how “Emergency Contact” is your favourite song you’ve written. Do you still feel that way, and what is it about that song that holds such a special place for you?

Yes, I love that song! It holds such a special place because I just feel like I’ve been in that situation so many times where I show up for someone and don’t get the same energy in return. It’s quite exhausting. I also just love the feel of the song as well!

“TNT” is the perfect crash out anthem, but we want to know: what’s on your crash out playlist? Give us your go-to songs when you’re ready to burn everything to the ground.

ALL Rihanna and Cardi B!! 

You’re Persian and Native American, two incredibly rich and distinct cultures. Where do these heritages meet for you, and where do they diverge? Do they affect your music?

Yes! They do affect my music! I was raised in a world of storytelling and taught early on how important it is to share your life experiences. I always think of that in every song I write. I am sharing a real story in hopes it can help someone else on their journey.  

Your “Girly Chloe 2026” photoshoot with Kai Dickson felt like a different side of you than what we’re used to. How did that come about, how did it feel, and can we expect more of that?

It was an experimental shoot! I wanted to tap into my feminine energy and just play dress up. I had a lot of fun doing it! I don’t think you can expect much more of that in the future, but you never know! 

You’ve mentioned you’d love to open for P!nk. Who else is on that list, whether as a fan or a dream collaborator?

P!nk would be a dream!! I’ll also love to open for mgk, YUNGBLUD, or No Doubt!  

One last question. Are you a Star or a Freak?

I am a freaky star!! 

words by Marios Stamos