Introducing #135 - emie nathan
Let us introduce you to singer songwriter emie nathan - who has just released her debut track ‘noman’ - which is a delicious piece of atmospheric pop. She took a moment to talk to us about her music.
Hey there emie, how are you? So your track ‘noman’ is out now - can you tell us what it is about?
Hey! I am all good thank you - just taking a breath now.
In essence, noman traces a journey of self-reflection. It marks a conscious attempt at growing out of negative habits and taking a more positive perspective on things. To me, a ‘noman’ represents the opposite of a yes-man…someone whose default response is no. I saw these patterns within myself and decided I didn’t like them so much. It marks the desire and willingness to change.
Where was it recorded? Any behind the scenes stories from the creative process you are happy to share with us?
I recorded the song at Matt Zara’s studio - Matt produced the track. It was actually the first session I had with Matt and Martin together, neither of whom I had met before so I think we all just felt very satisfied with our creation. We really gelled and I was really excited that it all just flowed so well. I think it was the first song I had written in a while that I knew was going to come out.
What is your earliest music memory?
I think my earliest memory must be watching my dad practice his violin at home. I started violin lessons when I turned four and I remember thinking that I wanted to be able to play just like him.
You split your time between London and New York as you grew up - do you feel that shaped your writing style in any form?
I gained the confidence to be much more nuanced with my lyrics when I returned to the states for university. I always wrote little songs here and there growing up, but I wasn’t settled in my tone of voice until I got back to New York. I’m pretty sure that had alot to do with the friends I was making at the time - their own creative interests and encouragement. I found myself in a mix of people who each came with their own musical tastes, experiences and goals…I think I was just propelled into an uber creative space which helped me relax into exploring my own thoughts among like minded people.
What are your key musical influences?
Most relevantly, my key influences are Bon Iver, Coldplay, Maggie Rogers, The Japanese House… a mix.
How would you describe your sound to someone who has never listened to your music before?
I’d say my music is left leaning with pop undertones. I think my melodies are rooted in pop, twisted slightly with darker production and coupled with sincere, visual-heavy lyrics. I’d like to think my songs sit somewhere between Maggie Rogers & The Japanese House.