Emei Returns with Catchy Alt Pop Single “Scatterbrain”
Interview by Hannah Kozak
Viral singer Emei is back yet again with her newest infectious single, “Scatterbrain.” Emei has had incredible online success over the last year and a half; chances are you’ve heard a clip of one of her songs on TikTok or Instagram. After performing on Chinese Idol and performing in large venues at a young age, it’s no wonder her incredible songwriting and energy attracts a wide audience. We got to chat with Emei to get to know her better and learn more about “Scatterbrain.”
Q: You are so great at writing catchy, infectious songs! What was the writing and recording process like for "Scatterbrain?" Is that your typical way of writing in general, or was this song different to write?
A: Thank you so much! This song was actually written on a day that was so hectic. I had driven across LA for another session and they canceled like 10 minutes before after I had already parked. Then this new session came up and I went back in the car, spilled my coffee on myself, and all around chaos ensued. So when I got to the studio (an hour late), I was like “SCATTERBRAIN,” we must write about how scatterbrained I am. Kyle Reynolds, Boy blue, and Kunfetti took that idea and ran so fast. We finished the song in like 3 hours and we all were obsessed at the end of the day. The process really depends on the song for me normally but most of the time I do like starting from scratch and finishing the song on the day I start. I think especially because of my writing style and how I like it to be basically a brain dump.
Q: How would you describe your sound to someone who has never heard your music?
A: Silly alt-pop! I love dark sounds but I hate being so serious. I really like saying what’s really on my mind which always happens to be a bit ridiculous and pair it with the dark pop sounds and a hint of ridiculous as well.
Q: Why/how is your music meaningful to you as an artist?
A: It’s how I process the world. It’s literally journaling for me and I feel very lucky that anyone listens and relates.
Q: Do you have a dream festival to play or a dream bill to be on one day?
A: I want to headline Madison Square Garden one day. I grew up in New Jersey so that feels like a pipe dream so it would be insane if that ever happens.
Q: Who are some of your favorite artists, and what artists do you take inspiration from when writing/performing?
A: I love Sara Bareilles, and I love Ingrid Michaelson. I’m a big story teller/musical theater girl so I definitely draw from that side of me.
Q: Can you tell us anything about your upcoming EP to be released in 2023?
A: It’s so fun!!! I’m so excited about all the music. It’s more of my brain dump and it’s just some crazy fun music.
Q: Anything else you'd like to add?
A: I really am the luckiest girl in the world right now to have so many people who listen to my music. I can’t wait to see what everyone thinks of the new stuff and yeah I’m just very grateful.
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