By: Lisa Steinberg
Photo By Molly Jackson
Q) As a singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist, how would you describe your sound?
A) My sound is always evolving, but people have told me a lot of my music is “cinematic.”
Q) Who are some of your musical influences?
A) I’m a lifelong [Lady] Gaga fan, really influenced by early U2 as well. I also love getting inspired by seeing other local bands play in LA.
Q) Your new song “I’ve Had Some Wine” was written on your 21st birthday while celebrating in Vegas. What was it about that combination of time and place that brought about this single?
A) It just felt like a big milestone and something I’d pictured doing my whole life. Sometimes when those big moments happen to me, they don’t feel real. That feeling really inspired me to write the song.
Q) Surely, many of us love a glass or two of our own, but what do you think it is about the song that fans connect to?
A) For most people I think it’s the atmosphere the song creates. It’s really heavy in some spots and more uplifting in others.
Q) Maxx Morando takes on the drums for the song. How did the two of you come to work together on this song?
A) I’ve always thought Maxx is one of the best drummers of my generation. I’ve been a fan of his work for years. He’s such a doll to work with, really chill and open to whatever notes I have and usually I have none for him.
Q) What is your song writing process? Do you need music before you can create lyrics?
A) Oddly enough, I’m typically a lyrics first writer. Then, I’ll sit down with a guitar and fit the two elements together. With this song in particular though, the melody came first.
Q) How much of a hand do you have in the production of your music?
A) I’m there every step of the way giving notes – I’m sure my collaborators LOVE that. [laughs]
Q) With “I’ve Had Some Wine” out now, is this a prelude to a full album or EP?
A) I’ve got an EP on the way!
Q) What can fans expect from a live Emmalee Rainbow performance?
A) My band is full of freaky-genius musicians. The people I play with are incredible. Sometimes on stage I just get lost listening to them work their magic.
Q) Where are some of your favorite places to perform and what makes those locations so significant to you?
A) I have a lot of memories (some wonderful, some weird) at Hotel Café. I’m so sad to hear it’s closing. And playing Teragram Ballroom was one of the highlights of my life thus far.
Q) Who would you most like to collaborate with on a song in the future?
A) Like all-time? Bono. Also, my little brother Kingsley – he’s probably a bit easier to get on the phone.
Q) What artist/musician are you currently listening to and why do you dig them?
A) I’m so into The Beach Boys right now. I’ve always loved them of course, but I’m actually getting into the deep cuts now. Also, loving Dear Boy – they just put out this new record that my bandmates and I can’t stop listening to.
Q) What would you like to say to everyone who is a fan and supporter of you and your work?
A) Thanks for supporting independent music!