Emzae

Growing up against a backdrop of Girl Power and the Y2K pop machine, Emma Shaw - otherwise known by her stage name emzae - always knew that music was the only path she truly had any interest in pursuing. By the age of 17, she was writing regularly and over the years that followed, her demo projects amassed thousands of listeners online and early support from BBC Introducing. Stepping onto the live circuit, emzae began to hone a solo set which showcased her productions and multi-instrumental talent, earning her festival and support slots for the likes of Altered Images and LoneLady. Always maintaining a fierce independence, emzae more often than not writes, records, produces and mixes her music, playing every instrument and singing every vocal layer on each track. Her songs play around with the definition of pop, blurring sub-genres to create her own varied, yet distinct sounds, while her lyrics span themes including change, self-doubt, confusion, empowerment and social commentary. Much of emzae’s work and career choices have also been heavily influenced by her lived experience of chronic mental and physical illness, which she writes and talks openly about when feeling comfortable to do so. She is passionate about finding ways to make the music industry a more health-first, welcoming environment for others like her, and encourages musicians to build their dreams no matter their limitations or barriers.