Scarlet Parke lived in Seattle for four years until she finally realized who she wanted to be, and her debut album, Flight Risk is the manifestation of who she has become: a successful entrepreneur who allowed her dreams to chase her. 

“I gave up on my dreams, I chased them. I gave up on my dreams, I chased them. And then my dreams chased me.” 

Q: What are some of the things that keep you motivated?

Parke: One motivator is time and how quickly it passes. Another motivator is family. They have been pretty supportive, making sure I follow my dreams, always saying they wish they had done things when they were younger and to wait to settle down so I don’t wake up at 45 and realize my dreams have passed. I also draw motivation from my mother, who was an entrepreneur and would rather work for herself. She was my inspiration for starting Parke Ave by quitting my job and taking that leap. I learned the value of pushing others to chase their dreams and to be a support system. To actualize their dreams! Sometimes the hardest step is getting what you want. It’s the importance of friendships and being surrounded by people with like minds to have that community, and that’s what I wanted.

Q: Why is community important to you?

Parke: Community is important because the journey is already had by yourself. Community means to have the same goal and vision to get there, to communicate and relate with others and say what you need and bring in help. I’m currently starting a Parke Ave internship program for at-risk youth, allowing the kids in the community to mirror and learn from local artists they admire. While learning about their craft they will also receive school credit. I want the youth to know they have help and a community supporting them, something I wish I had had. 

Q: What gives you confidence?

Parke: That’s hard! I was insecure in high school. Through time, I found the common ground to take a risk, and knowing that comes with time and doing what you know you have a passion for. Now I’ve finally gotten the fight of music and Parke Ave started, and I can finally  encourage others to find their peace and step out of the norms. 

Q: How do you know when you have made a hit? 

Parke: Once a song gets stuck in my head, I know. Like the song “Fallin’,” this happened and now I have placement in stores. 

Q: What’s your biggest anticipation for Capitol Hill Block Party? 

Parke: First, “Luna” will premiere at CHBP, which is directed by Wynter Rhys, filmed in Los Angeles. Second, Parke Ave is hosting an artist penthouse lounge. Fully sponsored bar, stylist, and photo backdrop hosted by Sofarsounds lasting for three days, also including the after party on Friday and Saturday until 2 a.m. Third, it’s my second time performing. I’m grateful to be playing again. Fourth, Jake Crocker will be performing with me at CHBP. He was a huge part of the album. Fourth, I’m excited to share the process. Flight Risk is a memoir of all the shit I have put myself through and asking myself, are you ready to come out of the trenches? I’ve changed my sound from folk to a new genre and vibe, and I hope everyone enjoys.