Clove Music

Arts at the Palace welcomed early career artist Clove, a singer-songwriter from Syracuse, NY, for a three-day creative residency that culminated in a moving and intimate showcase on May 24. Leaning on her raw lyricism and emotionally resonant performances, Clove brought her signature vulnerability to the Palace studio and left with a new song, a fresh sense of clarity, and a deeper connection to her artistry. Clove, who has been singing for as long as she can remember and writing songs since the age of twelve, describes music as a constant in her life. Raised in a musical Puerto Rican family and deeply rooted in her faith, her upbringing in the church laid a strong foundation for her artistic journey.

Throughout the residency, Clove collaborated with producer and longtime friend Stephen Phillips (aka PHEN). In just three to four hours, the duo co-wrote a brand-new song titled Rented a Room - a piece that stunned the audience with its haunting lyrics and unmatched harmonies. The song premiered at the live showcase the following evening. “That was the highlight of the weekend,” Clove reflected. “It reoriented me and reminded me why I love writing so much. The best way I can describe that weekend is a deep breath.” The Showcase invited the audience into a rare opportunity to witness the creative process up close. “There’s something about an intimate performance in front of a small crowd that is so special,” she noted. “When you get to play music that you worked so hard on for people who care… that’s one of the most rewarding parts of being a musician.”

Clove’s residency was the first creative retreat of its kind for her, and she’s hopeful it won’t be the last. “I think it's every artist’s dream to be offered a weekend stay in a small town where they can focus on making content for their brand, recording music, and writing,” she said. “I hope to be back next year and utilize the weekend even more, leaning fully into writing new music.”