Poolesville seniors Charlie Gleason and Clara Becker have launched their music duo Nowhere But Here, releasing two original songs this October that have garnered thousands of listeners across dozens of streaming platforms.
Their debut single, “Tomorrow Can Wait,” released on Oct. 6, 2025, marks the beginning of their music journey. The piece, by Gleason, explores the bittersweet feeling of love found at the wrong time.
“It’s really about two people who just missed each other- like, right person, wrong time,” Gleason stated. “That tension between hope and acceptance really drove the song.”
Across multiple streaming services, the first single has accumulated over 2,000 streams. Since forming their band, the two have built a loyal following under their artist name, earning over 1,000 monthly listeners on Spotify and hundreds more across other streaming platforms. Their second release, “Ms. Understanding,” dropped on Oct. 15, showing yet another example of their creativity as a duo.
Both artists have a deep musical background. Becker began playing the violin at age six, later joining orchestras and experimenting with music. Gleason picked up the guitar his freshman year, teaching himself chords from tutorials before diving into songwriting. In addition to their instruments, both sing their songs, combining Gleason’s introspective lyrics and Becker’s melodies.
Their journey together began during freshman year when they both performed in the school play.
“When we found out that we both played music and liked the same kinds of songs, we started jamming with other people,” Becker said. “It was a great way to meet new people and build connections.”
It’s that sense of connection that remains central to their art.
“I want people to take our music however they need it,” Gleason shared. “A song’s meaning isn’t the same every day. It might be a soundtrack for a car ride one day and something to reflect on the next.”
The duo began by posting on Instagram, attracting positive feedback and comments from classmates and around the Poolesville community. Coupled with their passion for music, the two began recording music professionally and posting it.
“We try to keep everything authentic,” Becker said. “It’s not about being perfect- it’s about being real with what we’re feeling.”
However, balancing music with the workload of senior year can be difficult. Between AP classes, college applications, and work, both admit that time management has been one of their biggest challenges.
“We’re usually working on music late at night,” Gleason said. “Sometimes after finishing homework, I’ll grab my guitar and start recording ideas. It’s tiring but worth it.”
Looking ahead, Nowhere But Here has big dreams. While neither plans to pursue music professionally, both say they’ll never stop creating.
“We’re always going to keep playing,” Gleason said. “It’s a great way to express ourselves.”
For now, the duo continues to perform at local events, including open mics and even Poolesville’s talent show, scheduled for Dec. 10, where they plan to showcase their latest originals.
