By: Karen Steinberg
Photo By Royzy Rothschild
Q) How would you describe your sound?
A) Dreamy dark pop with an emotional, authentic tone, exploring themes of growth and love.
It embraces vulnerability as a strength, allowing raw feelings to surface naturally. The sound feels intimate yet atmospheric, blending softness with depth.
The lyrics reflect personal evolution and the complexity of human connection. There is a balance between darkness and hope throughout the mood. Overall, it creates a heartfelt and immersive experience.
Q) Who are some of your musical influences?
A) I draw a lot of inspiration from global icons like Lady Gaga, Ariana Grande and Beyoncé for their powerful artistry and I love the intention they bring to each performance.
Some huge inspirations of mine also include Madison Beer and Lana Del Rey for their vulnerable, emotive writing. Their music explores themes of personal growth and inner conflict.
Q) Talk about the story behind your new song “Fake Friend.”
A) “Fake Friend” is a song about a real personal experience of mine involving someone who was once very close to me but showed their true colors and that is when I walked away. It is something we can all relate to, toxic friendships.
Even though it was a very dark time for me, I have come away from the experience with knowledge, strength and wisdom. I now know my worth, my boundaries and how I should be treated. That time in my life taught me some very valuable lessons.
I truly believe everything happens for a reason, whether it is to prepare you for amazing future opportunities, teach you a lesson or help you understand yourself more deeply and remind you of your worth. Always look after yourself and know you deserve nothing less than the best.
Q) What do you think it is about the song that fans will connect to?
A) This is probably the most vulnerable song I have released so far. It is about discovering that someone you thought was a friend never really was and I think that is something many people can relate to.
When I was going through it, it was something I needed to hear myself. I hope it helps people process their feelings, find the strength to leave and move on. Always know your worth.
Q) What is your songwriting process? Do you need music before you can create lyrics?
A) It is different every time. My debut single had a few different instrumentals before we landed on the right one and then I took it into the studio and recorded it within a few days.
“Cherry Haze” was a bit different. I came into the studio with three different versions and the team and I chose the best lines from each to create the version you hear now.
For “Fake Friend” and “Cherry Haze,” the music came first, whereas with “Trapdoor” the song itself came first.
Q) How much of a hand do you have in the production of your music?
A) It depends on the song. It is important to find people who can see and bring your vision to life.
“Fake Friend” was executively produced by Royzy Rothschild, who brought in producer Aimee Britannia. As soon as I heard her music, I knew we had to work together. She created a track for me, and that is when I wrote “Fake Friend.”
The music was perfect. Huge shoutout to Aimee and Royzy.
Q) “Fake Friend” drops on April 12th. How do you plan to celebrate the release?
A) To celebrate the release of my third single, “Fake Friend,” I hosted a launch party at Manchester’s Fuel Cafe Bar alongside an amazing support lineup including Sienna Polly, Emzz, Bethany Gibson, Jen Marsden, Tasha MC, Roscoe and Mallory Storm. Make sure to check them out.
I cannot believe headlined Manchester for the first time. It was such a special night and I was so excited.
Q) Is this single the prelude to a full album or EP?
A) Yes. I am so excited. I have been working on an EP that I will be sharing with you all towards the end of this year. I have worked so hard on this project, and it means so much to me.
The name cannot be revealed just yet and there is not much I can say, but I can say that I will be touring the EP this autumn. This will be my debut UK tour. Ticket information will be released soon via my social media platforms, @emilieculshaw.
Some cities I cannot wait to visit include Birmingham, London, Manchester, Leeds and, of course, my home Liverpool.
Q) Where are some of your favorite places to perform and what makes those locations so significant to you?
A) I am very grateful to have performed in so many places over the past few years. The Rainbow in Birmingham is one of my all-time favorites. I performed there on my “Trapdoor” support tour, and the energy was incredible. Everyone was singing along, the reviews were amazing and I cannot wait to be back this year on my debut UK headline tour.
Another place I love is the Kazimier Stockroom, where I held my debut single launch party for “Trapdoor.” It was such a special night. I also headlined Independent Venue Week there, which was a dream come true.
The Shipping Forecast is another favorite. I had my second single launch party there for “Cherry Haze” and it was such a special night.
And, of course, Fuel Cafe Bar, where I will be hosting my “Fake Friend” launch party. It is always a great vibe there.
There are still so many venues I dream of performing in, such as the O2 Academy and the O2 Arena in London, as well as venues in Brazil and the USA. It is all on the cards.
Q) Who would you most like to collaborate with in the future?
A) An artist I would love to collaborate with in the future is Mimi Webb. I’m a huge fan, and it would be a dream come true to feature on a song with her. I’ve watched her grow as an artist over the past few years, and she has been killing it. I really love her sound and think we would make a fire track together. Her songs “Love Language” and “Good Without” have to be my favorites.
Q) What artist or musician are you currently listening to and why do you like them?
A) An artist I am loving at the moment is Zara Larsson. She is an incredible pop artist who is absolutely thriving right now. Madison Beer’s new album Locket has been on repeat. I love how vulnerable and emotional her music is, and her voice is so angelic.
I am also loving Imagine Dragons. Their music helped me through a lot a few years back. The same goes for Marina. I absolutely love her music and her vibe. Sabrina Carpenter is also doing incredibly well right now.
Q) What would you like to say to everyone who is a fan and supporter of you and your work?
A) Thank you. Your support keeps me going every single day, and you do not know how much it means to me. I am so grateful for every one of you.
To my UK listeners, I am so excited to experience this EP live with you this year. And to my international listeners, I cannot wait to perform for you soon.
Stay tuned. There are so many exciting things on the way, and I cannot wait to celebrate them with you all. Let’s go.
@emilieculshaw on all platforms