After recently returning with her stunning Peech collaboration 'Something I Could Lose', her first piece of new material in two years, fast-rising artist Emma Rae is back once again to deliver her vibrant new effort 'Simple Mind'.
Conjuring more of that rich and shimmering aesthetic she has been building over the last years, 'Simple Mind' makes for an incredibly fun and lively listen. With her soaring vocal performance spread across a dynamic disco-inspired production throughout, she continues to shine as one of the more exciting names on the rise right now.
So with the new single available to stream now, we sat down with her to find out more about her origins and what has been inspiring her most over the years.
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What was the first instrument you fell in love with?
The first instrument I fell in love with was probably the piano. My mom was taking lessons when I was four so there was always beginner sheet music on the piano. I ended up teaching myself to read by watching her learn. My parents put me in piano lessons shortly after and I’m pretty sure my mom quit hers, oops.
What kind of music did you love when you were younger?
I grew up surrounded by Jazz. My dad is a jazz trombonist and my mom was a Jazz singer. They had a band when I was growing up that would rehearse in the living room. I used to fall asleep in front of the drum set. (Pretty sure that’s where my tinnitus comes from.) My mom sang jazz but also loved the music of her generation. She introduced me to David Bowie, The B-52, The Beatles, Queen - classics like that. I didn’t listen to the radio much while growing up because I was always playing whatever CD I had recently burned.
What was the first album you remember owning?
The first album I bought was Millenium by Backstreet Boys, quickly followed by Britney Spears' debut album.
What is the one song you wished you could have written yourself?
Reckless Driving by Lizzy McAlpine. That song is simply perfect.
Do you have any habits or rituals you go through when trying to write new music?
It really depends on what I’m writing. If I’m toplining a track I usually drive around while looping it. I always come up with my first melodies and lyrics while driving. I have a million unorganized voice memos because of this. If I’m writing from scratch I’ll sit at my piano and play chords and sing random shit until something forms and I find my direction.
Who are your favourite artists you have found yourself listening to at the moment?
Recently I’ve been listening to a lot of Jacob Collier, Noga Erez, NF, and Billie Eilish. I love the musicality and lyricism in all of their work.
If you could open a show for anyone in the world, who would it be?
Billie Eilish.
What do you find is the most rewarding part about being a musician?
For me, the most rewarding part is taking a tiny idea and turning it into a fully flushed-out song. Being able to hear everything I heard in my head get brought to life on stage is a really special feeling.
And what is the most frustrating part?
The most frustrating part is the industry. Nowadays, it feels like Spotify is doing everything in its power to not pay artists and songwriters the royalties they deserve, and it’s only getting worse. I could really get deep into a rant about this but I won’t. I encourage everyone who supports music and the arts to do their research before joining a streaming platform. Some are much better for both creators and listeners than others.
And what is the best piece of advice you have received as a musician?
Never clap on 1 and 3.
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Emma Rae's new single 'Simple Mind' is available to stream now. Check it out in the player below.