18 Questions with introduces 1883 readers to the brightest young artists, actors, creatives and beyond. From childhood memories and guilty pleasures to their latest ventures and upcoming projects, our goal is to bring you closer to the people who inspire and entertain us.

At just 18 years old, rising indie-pop artist Cloe Wilder has accomplished more in just a few short years than a lot of seasoned artists will in a lifetime. She’s about to complete her second US tour (she’s shared the stage with viral crooner Spencer Sutherland and rockstar Charlotte Sands) and is releasing songs with songwriting that could compete with some of the greatest storytellers of this generation of music – and she’s just getting started. 

Today, she unveils the third single from her upcoming EP, I Spent My Summer on the Road (out April 19). The track, “Afterglow” featuring NICOLOSI, channels escapism and tells a story about growing apart being inevitable and details what it feels like to lose someone. With its sombre melody and lyrics that paint the picture of a winter heartbreak, the song could almost serve as an epilogue to Taylor Swift and Bon Iver’s “evermore.”

While on the road, 1883 Magazine chats with Cloe Wilder about her upcoming EP, her favourite karaoke song, and what made her want to pursue a career in music. 

What’s one exciting thing that happened to you this week? 

I played a really fun show in Salt Lake City. 

What was the last thing you read? 

I just finished reading The Secret History by Donna Tartt. I’m currently reading Lolita!

Favourite memory growing up? 

My mom threw me the best birthday parties. She called them ‘Club Cloe’ and they were ridiculously cool. My 11th birthday party was possibly the best day of my life. 

Where was the last place you travelled to? 

Chicago! 

What was the last thing that made you laugh?

Probably my makeup artist, Sheila. We’ve been keeping a list of tour quotes. We think we’re hilarious. 

What’s your nighttime ritual?

On tour, I work on removing the glitter from my face and then I go straight to bed. 

Who would be on your dream dinner party guest list? 

Lana Del Rey and Bill Hader are all that I need. 

Favourite quote from a film or TV show?

 “And in that moment, I swear we were infinite,” from Perks of Being a Wallflower. 

What’s your go-to karaoke song? 

“Home” by Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros. 

Favourite item in your closet? 

My platform Dr. Martens which I wear at every show. They have served me well! 

What is your earliest music-related moment that made you decide it’s what you wanted to pursue as a career? 

I played talent shows at school every year and did recitals almost every week. I did anything musical that I could get my hands on. I was pretty certain that I would end up on that path. I went to my first writing camp when I was 12, so that’s when I really knew I wanted to be an artist. 

What has been your favourite part of touring with Charlotte Sands? 

I love watching her set and being a part of this world!! I’m honestly just happy to be here. 

Where is the best place for fans to listen to “Afterglow”?

Ideally, one should listen to “Afterglow” in the woods at dawn after a devastating loss. If that can’t happen, just go cry in the car!

What do you hope fans take away from your upcoming EP? 

I always want listeners to take whatever they need. This EP, in particular, is my own little coming-of-age scrapbook. I wrote five songs about being 17; that’s what this project is. I felt very confused about it, but I also knew there was something profound in there. 

What has been your proudest moment of your career so far? 

I landed my first tour when I was 17, which had always been the dream. It’s the happiest I’ve ever been, so I’d say I’m the proudest of that. 

What are some other artists you listen to for inspiration when you’re making music?

 Bon Iver, Lana Del Rey, Florence + The Machine, and so many more. 

What has been the most challenging part of touring? 

Honestly, I just forget to eat! 

Where do you hope your music takes you this year and beyond? 

I’m moving to Los Angeles in July and I’m hoping to get another tour before the end of the year. Beyond that, I’ll keep writing like my life depends on it! I’m having a lot of fun right now. 

“Afterglow” is out now. Follow Cloe Wilder @cloewilder.

Photography Jesse DeFlorio