Exploring Emily Saunders: How the Moon Influences Our Thoughts
Emily Saunders, a talented London-based vocalist, songwriter, and producer, has made a name for herself by combining Brazilian rhythms, synth-filled atmospheres, and jazz-fusion into a signature style that is both sensual and cerebral. Her latest release, “Moon Shifts Oceans,” showcases her ability to create music that is both widely relatable and deeply personal. In a recent interview, Jason Barnard spoke with Emily about her latest work.
When asked about the title of her album, “Moon Shifts Oceans,” Emily explained that it comes from the lyrics of a song on the album, “Sideways.” The title holds significance for her as it represents the idea that small actions can lead to substantial changes. She sees the moon, a seemingly small celestial body, as a powerful force that moves the tides, illustrating how small things can make a big impact. Emily finds inspiration in the idea that individual and collective voices can create positive change, even when one may feel insignificant in the grand scheme of things.
In her song “Floating,” Emily delves into themes of self-reflection and personal accountability following a failed relationship. She acknowledges that there is often no entirely objective perspective on lost love, as each person’s experience is unique. With this song, Emily explores a moment where love seemed to drift away, prompting her to examine her role in the relationship’s end. Instead of portraying herself as a victim, she takes responsibility for her part in the situation.
Being dubbed “the Queen of Jazz Fusion” by some, Emily sees this title as both flattering and intimidating. While she acknowledges the rich history of jazz fusion, she feels empowered to push the boundaries of the genre by incorporating a diverse range of influences into her music. Rather than feeling confined by a label, Emily finds freedom in blending various musical styles to create a sound that is uniquely hers.
Drawing inspiration from great storytellers in jazz history like Billie Holiday and Nina Simone, Emily sees herself as part of a lineage of artists who use music to tell captivating stories. She believes that effective storytelling in music comes from a blend of personal experiences and observations of the world around us. By engaging listeners and inviting them to reflect on their own lives, storytelling in music can be a powerful tool for connection and introspection.
Emily’s deep love for music stems from her upbringing in a musical family and formative experiences throughout her life. One pivotal moment for her was spending time in an empty church with a grand piano during her teenage years. This period of solitude and creativity shaped her understanding of music as a source of continuity and emotional connection, especially during challenging times.
Throughout her music, Emily seeks to create a sense of warmth and connection, believing in the transformative power of sound. Her optimism shines through in her compositions, inspired by her Nana’s words to always see the glass as half full. For Emily, music is not just a creative outlet but a source of joy, healing, and hope for both herself and her listeners.