Emily Chambers
Emily Chambers is an r&b artist from Vancouver, BC, Canada.
After spending 6 years in a band, Chambers launched her solo project in 2016. Now relocated in Nashville, the singer/songwriter is creating an r&b/soul sound inspired by the 90s. Her latest single “Girlfriend Like You” was written by Chambers and produced by Vancouver-based producer Daniel Klenner.
“When I first moved to Nashville I found it really hard to make girlfriends. All the women I know here are hustling just as I am, and it is hard to find/make time for each other. I was missing my mom and my sister and my girls back home. I thought about what I loved about them and this song came out,” explains Chambers.
“Girlfriend Like You” is now available worldwide.
Photo credit: Caroline Voisine
Introduce yourself - where are you from?
My name is Emily Chambers and I am an R&B artist from Vancouver, BC Canada living in Nashville, TN.
What's your story?
That's a broad question! My musical story started when I was 3 years old and became obsessed with the Sister Act soundtrack. When I was 8 my mom put me in voice lessons with Juno nominated jazz singer Joani Taylor and I studied with her for 10 years. After high school I attended Berklee College of Music on a vocal scholarship and then headed to Europe where I busked through the South of France and Italy for 4 months. I came back to Vancouver in 2010 and formed a 6 piece band that I ran with for 6 years before going solo. In 2018 I packed my life into my 250b camper van and moved to Nashville, TN.
You are originally from Canada - could you describe us your childhood a little bit?
My childhood was lovely. I have two wonderful parents and an amazing older sister who probably hated me until I was 16, but I idolized her. Growing up in British Columbia consisted of lots of outdoor activities. I grew up snowboarding, wake boarding, playing soccer and volleyball. I am very lucky to have a close family.
How would you describe Canada?
As a whole? Big! Lot's of land! Lot's of diversity. Canada is beautiful and I am very grateful to be a citizen of a country I am proud of.
When did you start singing?
The ripe age of three!
Growing up what were your favorite records to sing along to?
Anything Christina Aguilera or Alicia Keys.
When did you decide to fully pursue music as a career?
I thought I decided to be all in on this in 2010 when I recorded my first record and started a band, but in retrospect I didn't fully commit to myself until 2016 when I went solo.
Who was the first person to ever believe in you?
My family. And Joani.
How did your sound and artistry evolve over the years?
I grew up writing pop songs and over time my love for neo-soul and R&B took that in a new direction. I also feel I am much more aware of the lyrics and intention in the songs I write now; why I am saying what I am saying.
"Girlfriend Like You" is your new single - what's the story behind this song?
When I first moved to Nashville I found it really hard to make girlfriends. All the women I know here are hustling just as I am, and it is hard to find/make time for each other. I was missing my mom and my sister and my girls back home. I thought about what I loved about them and this song came out.
Who helped you create this particular song?
I brought this song to my Vancouver based producer Daniel Klenner and we put it together.
What made you want to release "Girlfriend Like You" as a single?
Honestly I am just playing the singles game right now, releasing 4 this year (one more to come in November)! Financially it makes sense for me as an independent artist at this time.
What do you like the most about this song?
I love the 90s Whitney/Mariah vibes. It's such a bop!
What can you tell us about the artwork?
This photo was taken by my friend Caroline Voisine. I threw a retro filter on it and added my logo and "Girlfriend Like You" font designed by graphic designer Meghan Gillespie.
How does Nashville help you shape your creativity?
In Nashville you are surrounded by creatives who inspire and support you. I see 2-3 shows a week here, and I play 2-4 times a week right now, so my life is filled with music.
Why do you make music? What keeps you going?
Music is what comes out of me. It is how my brain works and my emotions are released. If I didn't make it I would probably explode.
What's your favourite part about being an artist? And what's the hardest part?
My favourite part of being an artist is getting to connect to complete strangers through creativity. The stage feels like home to me. The hardest part is it can sometimes feel unrewarding, and financially it is very difficult to be independent, but when you're in love with something you find a way!
What does it mean for you to be an artist?
I feel a sense of duty to be mindful about the art I am putting into the world and a sense of responsibility to be honest, real and vulnerable.
What do you want to accomplish as a human being?
Happiness. Love. Light.
In your opinion, what would make the world a better place?
Stricter gun laws and climate reform.
What biggest life lessons have you learned so far?
To trust your intuition - your body always knows, your mind just tries to figure it out.
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