We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Emily Myers. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Emily below.
Emily, thank you so much for joining us today. Let’s jump right into something we’re really interested in hearing about from you – being the only one in the room. So many of us find ourselves as the only woman in the room, the only immigrant or the only artist in the room, etc. Can you talk to us about how you have learned to be effective and successful in situations where you are the only one in the room like you?
If you choose to be a woman in music, you will the only woman in the room many times in your career. It will happen in recording sessions, bands you play with, and business meetings. Some of the rooms will welcome you in and others will question why you deserve to be there. Be in the room either way.
When I was early in my career, it made me insecure when I realized someone did not think I should be in the room. I would shrink to the corner when someone commented on my gender rather than my music in a business situation. I learned I was the only one who could decide that I belonged there. I was not going to be given the authority; I had to be confident enough in my abilities to demand it.
Eventually I learned how to show up fully as a woman and an artist regardless of who else was in the room. I learned how to shut down a sexist joke or dismiss a comment that undermined me as a band leader. I began to trust my gut on musical decisions and realized the only person who had the final say on my artistry was me. I realized the best way to be successful was to swiftly and kindly address any bias as soon as it came up.
I also learned it was ok to be picky about your team. I have walked away from musicians or producers that did not respect female leadership and learned how to find collaborators who treated me the same as everyone else. People who make creating a safe, inclusive space for all.
Being in rooms where you are the only one who looks like you in difficult, but important work. And if you find yourself in that opportunity, I believe you will always find more people willing to open the door instead of keep you out. So keep going, find those people, and make great art.
Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?
I am a Country/Americana singer-songwriter based out of Nashville, Tennessee. I grew up in Jefferson City, Missouri and was passionate about music from an early age. I did everything I could to get involved with music – theater, dance, bands, learning piano and guitar. Eventually, I went to study music at Oklahoma City University, where I discovered my calling in the craft of songwriting.
I released my debut EP, ‘Unwrite’ on March 24th. This five track project included songs that are fan favorites like ‘Ain’t Gonna Be Mine’ and ‘Unwrite Every Song’ but also a new ballad song, ‘I Would’ about the power of regret. I also released the ‘I Would’ music video to accompany the anticipated release. These songs perfectly represent who I am in this season of writing and highlights both the detailed, hope-filled storytelling and the soaring vocals that have defined my music.
One of the best memories was debuting the EP’s title track at the famous Listening Room, an iconic venue that has housed some of the biggest songwriters in country music. I am currently back in the studio recording my first full length album and am booking shows to tour this fall.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
Authenticity – the best advice I ever received as an artist was to figure what was uniquely you and lean into that. Sharing your unique story, voice, style – whatever is authentically YOU – that’s what it is all about.
Compassion – I once heard someone say that songwriters are simply observers who know how to share the stories they witness with others. I think the key part of this is compassion. To be able to write songs that move people, you have to be able to understand people from their perspective. If you keep compassion first in your life and songwriting, you will remain a kinder person and write music that helps people in their life.
Resiliency – the music industry will wear you down. There is no doubt about that. But if you believe that this is what you were built to do, you have to find a way to be resilient and keep going. Resiliency will keep you working when someone else gives up. It is the necessary grit you need to be able to hustle and bring the music to the people who need it.
How can folks who want to work with you connect?
I am always looking for people to collaborate with! I am currently booking shows in new areas and would love to bring a show directly to you! I love bringing music to new towns, homes, business and venues. If that sounds like you, connect with me over instagram @emilymyersmusic and we will find a way to work together.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://emilymyersmusic.com/
- Instagram: emilymyersmusic
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/emilymyersmusic
- Twitter: https://www.instagram.com/emilymyersmusic/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSyUtwRb5olzAxVL5W5hWkg?view_as=subscriber
Image Credits
NashBash Writers Collective – Chelsea Erica Smith
