Motherhood Reimagined: Claire Tonti's Powerful Musical Journey

Claire Tonti, a Naarm-based singer-songwriter, activist, and mother, is breaking down barriers and using her music to normalize the complexities of motherhood. Her debut album, "Matrescence," released in 2023, is a powerful exploration of her experiences with motherhood, loss, and yearning. Now, Tonti is preparing for the release of her brand new single, "The Beast," on October 15th, Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day.

Redefining the Narrative of Motherhood

Matrescence: The Transformative Journey of Motherhood

Tonti is deeply passionate about the concept of matrescence, which she describes as "the biggest endocrine event that someone can go through." This transition to motherhood, encompassing both pregnancy and birth, profoundly changes an individual's world, from their view of themselves to their relationships and understanding of their own body. Tonti's music serves as a reflection of this transformative journey, filling a significant void in current media, where the complexities of motherhood are often overlooked.

Navigating the Challenges of Motherhood

Tonti's personal experiences have shaped her artistic expression. Nine years ago, she gave birth to her son in a traumatic experience, and seven years later, during the pandemic, she welcomed her daughter. The isolation of lockdowns, juggling homeschooling, work, and parenting, along with a bout of long COVID, left her bedridden for weeks. It was during this challenging period that music began to reawaken her creativity, allowing her to process the profound changes she was experiencing.

Honoring Mothers through Music and Advocacy

Tonti's music not only reflects her own journey but also serves as a tribute to mothers everywhere. She uses powerful analogies, such as the transformation of a moth or a dragonfly, to capture the essence of the maternal experience. Tonti's approach to her career also reflects her commitment to supporting mothers, as she creates gigs that accommodate the unique needs and challenges of parenthood.

Addressing the Complexities of Pregnancy and Infant Loss

Tonti's new single, "The Beast," delves into the deeply personal experience of her own miscarriage. She aims to shed light on the emotional weight of this often-overlooked aspect of the maternal journey, challenging the dismissive way it is often described. By using the sound of an ultrasound machine in the song, Tonti captures the sense of birth and loss, while also addressing the lack of autonomy women often feel within the medical system.

Empowering Mothers through Music and Community

Tonti's music and advocacy work are driven by a deep desire to empower mothers and create a more inclusive, supportive environment for them. She recognizes the unique challenges that come with navigating the male-dominated music industry as a mother, and she is determined to pave the way for others by creating opportunities that cater to the needs of parents. Tonti's commitment to her craft and her community is a testament to the transformative power of art and the resilience of the maternal spirit.