Carlene McDearis Wentworth
More than catchy tunes
I started out in Atlanta with my $100 Peavy speakers and a $50 Shure microphone. I believe my first gig was the downtown Biltmore, but I could be wrong. I've played a lot of hotels and more than a few dives.
I once had an agent who sent me into a honky tonk joint in Tampa, Florida. I was playing jazz and standards. They literally asked me to leave -- in the middle of a set. Boom.
I've played wherever they've sent me ... dark jazzy bars, nice suit and tie clubs, and larger venues. I've gotten standing ovations in clubs and amens in church. Both feel spectacular, by the way.
I write songs about stuff that's happened to me and stuff that's happened to people I know. I reach for real every time and hope I meet that mark more times than not.
The genres I write in are some version of pop, cinematic pop, indie pop, folk, and country. I find myself naturally blending the genres. Can't seem to help myself. :)
Reach me: mailto:connect@carlene.music and 864.221.6331.
SONG REVIEW
I Make It Rain
I have to say Carlene’s compositions are nothing short of inspiring. Her dedication to writing songs that reflect real experiences, both her own and those of others, shines through in her new song “I Make It Rain.” It’s clear that authenticity is at the heart of her artistry. So, let’s dive in and learn more about this beautiful track!
“I Make It Rain,” is a captivating blend of smooth, silky blues and soulful expression that immediately draws listeners in. From the very first note, the production sets a serene yet powerful tone with a luscious piano that dances alongside a steady drumbeat. The arrangement is beautifully crafted, allowing Carlene’s vocals to shine as they wrap around the listener like a warm embrace.
Her voice carries an undeniable resemblance in some areas to the legendary Janis Joplin, with raw emotion and captivating timbre. Carlene’s delivery is both sexy and haunting, infusing the lyrics with a depth that resonates on a personal level. The chorus lyrics, “When I am thirsty, when I’m in pain and need the holy water, I make it rain,” are particularly striking, weaving a narrative that feels both intimate and universal. It captures the essence of longing and the search for solace in the midst of struggle.
The production of “I Make It Rain” deserves special mention. The sound effects add a textured richness that elevates the entire experience. Each element—from the subtle nuances of the drums to the elegant piano lines—harmonizes beautifully, creating a lush soundscape that feels both modern and timeless.
For those seeking a blend of nostalgia and fresh creativity, “I Make It Rain” is a beautiful addition to the music landscape, reaffirming Carlene’s place as a rising star in the industry so be sure to check this track out.
“I Make It Rain” accompanying music video, available on Vimeo, complements the song’s vibe perfectly, enhancing the overall narrative and visual appeal. You can see it here.
Matt Zin
BTD Radio
REVIEW
COMING FOR ME
“Coming for Me” by Carlene is a hauntingly beautiful addition to her upcoming album, “These Stories.” This piano ballad delves into the depths of human emotion with a kind of dark, cinematic allure that’s hard to resist. Carlene’s vocals are nothing short of mesmerizing, effortlessly drawing listeners into the intricate narrative woven within the song.
The track navigates the complexities of life, acknowledging the inevitability of facing challenges head-on. It’s a reflection on how relationships evolve, sometimes leading to heartache and loss. Carlene captures the essence of these experiences with raw honesty, making each lyric resonate deeply with anyone who’s ever felt the weight of their own emotions.
As the song progresses, it builds with exquisite transitions, each layer adding depth to the emotional landscape. The chorus, with its powerful imagery and evocative lyrics, serves as the heart of the song, driving home the theme of confronting darkness and grief.
Carlene’s ability to blend elements of pop, folk, and cinematic sounds creates a rich sonic tapestry that envelops the listener. With each note, “Coming for Me” immerses you in its world, inviting introspection and reflection.
For those who appreciate music that transcends genres and speaks directly to the soul, “Coming for Me” is a must-listen. Carlene’s artistry shines brightly in this captivating single, leaving listeners eagerly anticipating the release of her full album in December 2024.
Matt Zin, BTD Radio
REVIEW
Fly Fly Fly
Overall Impression
With a deeply heartbreaking theme at its heart and powerful vocal performance at its front and center, Carlene's profoundly evocative "Fly Fly Fly" tells a poignant and emotional story of a relationship between a mother and her son, who struggles with addiction and ultimately loses his life to it. The song begins with fond memories of the child's early years, highlighting his talent and passion for music from a young age. However, as he grows older, the lyrics reveal the darker side of his journey, as he becomes entangled in addiction. Carlene's lyrics paint a heartbreaking portrait of the devastating impact of addiction on individuals and their loved ones, while also exploring themes of love, loss, and acceptance. These thought-provoking themes combined with the effective arrangement and of course, Carlene's highly emotive and graceful vocal performance, result in a thoroughly absorbing listening experience, one that possesses an undeniably delicate touch and is replete with many engaging melodic expressions.
Strongest Point(s)
The vocal performance is nothing short of spellbinding. Carlene's vocals, imbued with a deep level of emotion and authenticity, serve as the track's narrative guiding light. With each note, she effortlessly navigates the highs and lows of the song, infusing it with raw vulnerability and undeniable passion. It's a performance that's able to bring out the nuances of the themes of the songs with a level of grace that proves most engaging, and there's a delicacy to how she crafts her phrases that ensures the lyrics adopt a deeply palpable sense of both heart and feeling. Concerning the arrangement and chosen instrumentation, there's a sense of restraint that speaks volumes. The tender piano progressions and gentle string layers combined with the '80s-styled percussive elements and warm-sounding synth textures found in the chorus sections provide the perfect backdrop for Carlene's vocals, and the way dynamics are effectively used to create a varying degree of flow within the music helps mirror the emotional fluctuations found within the lyrics. This results in a free-flowing and easily accessible piece of music that listeners can strongly resonate with and relate to.
Target Audience Appeal
"Fly Fly Fly" is an engaging piece of pop songwriting and I'm sure lovers of the genre will find it to be a worthwhile listening experience.
Artist target suggestions
Taylor Swift, Ellie Goulding, John Mayer, Adele, Madonna, Billie Eilish, Lewis Capaldi, Abby Siler, Lana Del Ray, Sam Smith
About The Reviewer
Andre @RadioAirplay is a session guitarist, composer, and sound engineer based in the U.K.
REVIEW
Goodbye To You
"Goodbye to You" is an eclectic folk-pop track featuring appealing vocals and introspective lyrics. The song captures the essence of moving on from a relationship with confidence and self-assurance.
The songwriting expresses a sense of liberation and renewal after saying goodbye to a past love. The narrator reflects on the realization that they deserve to be truly loved and appreciated, acknowledging their worth and embracing a brighter future.
Overall, with its warm, soft, and catchy melody with a relatable uplifting message, "Goodbye to You" is sure to resonate with anyone who has experienced the journey of letting go and finding inner strength.
@OGMusic
REVIEW
You Will Be the One
Overall Impression
If predestined love needed a soundtrack, You Will Be The One would be a top choice. This new Pop tune by the singer Carlene manages to keep its cool while still relishing in the giddiness of love and romance. It has a modern sound and features a clean and clear vocal approach by Carlene, a catchy hook, and lyrics that spark the imagination. The moderate beat pulses forward with just enough captivating energy to command attention. Carlene's lyrics are playfully romantic and intimate. They read like a day dream that has been turned into a love letter. Attentive listeners will surely notice the musical nod to an iconic drum fill, but even those keeping this tune in the background will appreciate the subtle composure, spacious atmosphere, and seductive energy You Will Be The One has to offer.
Strongest Point(s)
This tune is well polished and very easy to listen to. It captures a very specific kind of mood and energy. It is neither wild nor domesticated, but uses the best qualities of each to find its own identity. This tune makes you want to dance, but in a way that only that special someone would notice. Nice work by all involved.
Target Audience Appeal
Fans of Pop and Modern Pop will enjoy You Will Be The One by Carlene.
Artist target suggestions
Madonna, Katy Perry, Ellie Goulding, Robyn, Cher, Gwen Stefani, Rob Thomas, Joe Jonas, Nick Jonas, Justin Timberlake, One Direction, Kylie Minogue, Carly Rae Jepson, Britney Spears, Taylor Swift
About The Reviewer
Zachary Larson @ RadioAirplay is a professional guitarist and multi-instrumentalist in New York City. He performs frequently on Broadway.
Current Project
My latest album, LOVE IS MY OATH, is available for purchase on this site and is available on streaming platforms.
I'm currently working on my new album for 2025. Stay tuned!