The underground music scene has been buzzing about a woman who may be the most innovative and hardworking artist that music has seen in decades: EMM. Whether she’s performing in a casket full of live bugs, hanging upside down by her feet, shredding on 4 instruments live between huge dance numbers or hitting whistle notes like Mariah, EMM is undeniably a force. Not to mention, she’s completely self-funded.
Raised by musician parents in Traverse City, Michigan, her musical journey began very early in life. At just five, she penned down her feelings into music, setting the stage for a career unlike any other.
While most kids her age were navigating school and play, EMM was strumming the guitar by 12. Two years later, she discovered Logic Pro X and music production, and she was free to create without the constraints of depending on anyone but herself.
By 15, EMM had already left home and moved to New York City to follow her dreams. The city’s relentless pulse mirrored her ambitions, pushing her toward releasing her first mixtape in 2016. But, as is the case with many creative souls, the journey was laden with challenges. EMM’s trials with mental health issues painted her lyrics with depth, making her songs not just tunes to hum but stories to dive into. During her three years in the city, EMM often struggled to get by in an expensive city, sometimes working three jobs at once while also pursuing a career in music.
Her trilogy of mixtapes — EMERALD, RUBY, and SAPPHIRE is not just about music, it is an entire universe. Fans travel with her, exploring different storylines through her captivating videos. As the crescendos of her life echoed in her tracks, it was clear: EMM’s world was expanding, and it called everyone.
But the road to success wasn’t a paved highway. Manipulated by the industry, controlled by external voices and straitjacketed into a mold, EMM decided to kick those people to the curb. Dismissing the naysayers, EMM embraced an untraditional business model and closed a strategic multi-million dollar brand deal completely on her own. It set her on a path of true independence where she could create anything she dreamed without asking anyone for permission. Gone were the days of waiting for approvals; EMM was in the driver’s seat.
Being independent isn’t just about self-funding for EMM. She’s using her independence to speak out for others who can’t speak for themselves. Raising her voice and echoing the thoughts of countless young women, EMM is calling out the ugly parts of industry in every way possible. The music business often muzzles voices, but EMM stands out, unafraid and unashamed. Whether it’s empowering the next generation, championing mental health or the raw transparency she brings to her work, EMM’s independent streak shines brightly.
For those who’ve followed her journey, her most recent single “Delilah” is a tantalizing preview of what’s next, with Rolling Stone acknowledging it as one of the best new songs this summer. As anticipation builds for her completed forthcoming album, her fans, both old and new, are in for a treat. And labels are beginning to notice the competition for getting their hands on the album — a sound that “no one but EMM could pull off” according to a source close to the artist.
To describe EMM merely as a musician would be a disservice. She’s a storyteller, a trailblazer and most importantly, a loud and proud voice for many. In an industry filled with stereotypes and molds, she’s carved her own path. Beyond her music, EMM is also taking the stage by storm. Her live shows, a reflection of her passion, invite audiences into a far more immersive and theatrical experience than a typical concert.
To truly step into EMM’s world, one doesn’t need to look far. Her shows, a blend of raw emotion, impeccable talent and a story that resonates, are a must-visit. For those eager to join her on this journey, the path is simple: follow her on Instagram and Tik Tok. To listen to her music, subscribe to her Youtube channel or find her on your preferred streaming platform.
Could this be the birth of the next true icon in an era where the music industry has become the song-version of fast fashion? Could this be an artist with the chops to stand the test of time in era where the focus is on labels turning artists over as soon as their viral moment fizzles out? She’s clearly got the talent, the drive, and the smarts.
It’s difficult to compare EMM to anyone — do we compare her voice to Mariah or Ariana with that incredible range? Or her prolific writing to Taylor? Or do we focus on her incredible skill and training as a musician and a producer, like a young Prince? What about her upbeat show full of dancing and theatrics? Madonna or Gaga?
My conclusion? Maybe she’s not the “next,” but rather, the “first.”
