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Emma G - Single/Video Review: Superhero

08 Oct 2018 // A review by Corinne Rutherford

I have loved Emma G from the moment I first reviewed her single King For A Day in 2017. She has a powerful voice which has the ability to transcend between genres effortlessly. A strong “unapologetically outspoken” Kiwi now based in Washington DC, who is not afraid to push boundaries and break down barriers. Refreshing and bold and extremely connected to her fans, this lady is certainly finding her voice in her new homeland as she rediscovers her American heritage. Emma’s third studio release Superhero is an inspiring and powerful track about a contentious issue and is sparking not only conversations but from the looks of things, a fair bit of controversy as well.

I am going to rip straight into it. This could be rather polarising to some, emotional to others and it may spark a fierce debate for many. It is a brave move to write a song and add thought provoking images to such a political and challenging subject. As quoted by Emma “I do not pretend to understand racism as much as someone who was born and bred in the United States, however I’ve had the privilege to talk to many people about the topic since moving to Washington DC. This song specifically, was inspired by a conversation I had at Epic Tattoo Parlour in Montrose, Colorado”.

Emma delivers a strong and beautiful message through her lyrics, encouraging people to “choose love, compassion, and humanity over racism, bigotry and conflict”. Emma G is not afraid to speak up for what she believes in.

Her vocals have been described as a combination of Adele, Pink, Tracy Chapman and Alanis Morrissette. I don’t think that description is far wrong, it is certainly soulful. Refreshing and unique, the kind of voice that is memorable.

Overall sound on this track is rather upbeat and has been described as “radio friendly”. Recorded by Baltimore based producer Flightboy Music.

The music video which compliments Superhero is much like the song its self; it is not sugar coating the topic of racism. There are images of protests and rallies, real people involved in hurtful circumstances. A stark reminder that there is “increased racial conflict” in certain political environments. The video also features our lovely Emma, all the while looking her sparkling lively self, taking a no-nonsense approach to the subject at hand. As always her charismatic presence shines through.

“When the angels open their eyes. How their hearts break to realize. All of the mistakes we’ve made, at what price?. Where’s our superhero tonight?”

For me this is another stunning piece of work by Emma G. But I will encourage you to take a listen and make up your own minds.

Rating: ( 4 / 5 )
 

About Emma G

A combination of Adele and Pink, with Tracy Chapman as Godmother; Emma G describes her sound as soul pop-rock.

Musician, singer, songwriter, Emma G's sultry tones are punctuated with a gutsy quality that hammers home her messages of empowerment, love and respect.

After releasing eight singles, and successfully charting a number 10 album on the New Zealand Top 40 with her band, Static Era; Emma G moved to Washington DC from Auckland, New Zealand to pursue a solo career in music in November 2015. Working full time as a street performer, she also plays in various clubs, bars and community events throughout the city - and often far beyond. In the last year, she has played The Whitehouse, The Kennedy Center, The National Cherry Blossom-, and Smithsonian Folklife festivals, The Atlas Performing Arts Theater, toured California twice (including iconic music venues The Mint and The Viper Room), released two solo acoustic EP's, her debut studio single King for a Day, been featured three times on Fox5, in Washingtonian Magazine's "Best of DC" edition, and had some radio play.

Visit the muzic.net.nz Profile for Emma G

Releases

I Am
Year: 2022
Type: EP
Born In Crisis
Year: 2021
Type: Album
Unplugged
Year: 2020
Type: Album
Taking Flight
Year: 2018
Type: Album
A Taste of Emma G
Year: 2016
Type: EP
Live And Acoustic
Year: 2016
Type: EP

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