Liverpool-born singer-songwriter Emilie Culshaw is quickly emerging as one of the UK’s most exciting new voices in dark dream-pop. Blending cinematic production with heartfelt lyricism, Emilie crafts songs that explore love, vulnerability, and self-discovery, all wrapped in her signature ethereal sound.
Following the success of her captivating live performances and her first single ‘Trapdoor’’, Emilie is set to make her mark with her sophomore single “Cherry Haze”, a shimmering exploration of the honeymoon phase of falling in love. Signed to Big Condo Records, she continues to build momentum with her soulful vocals, honest storytelling, and striking stage presence.
With her debut EP on the horizon and a headline launch show this November, Emilie Culshaw is stepping into her own ready to light up the UK pop scene.
Interview with Emilie Culshaw
1. What was the writing process like behind “Cherry Haze”?
To write “Cherry Haze”, I actually wrote multiple versions and continued to rewrite it in the studio using a lyrical vision board with pages of lyrics and words everywhere. This was a new experience for me. We took the best parts of each version to make the final song. It made me so happy watching it all come to life, then straight after, I went into the booth to record.
2. Emilie, we’ve heard the new single “Cherry Haze”, it sounds amazing. What’s the story behind it?
Thank you so much! Cherry Haze is about the “honeymoon phase” of catching feelings for someone, when you’re constantly thinking of them, trying to figure them out, and wondering how they feel towards you, haha. It’s inspired by real past relationships I’ve been in… or should I say situationships, haha. I’m sure we’ve all been there before!
3. You just performed “Cherry Haze” for the first time live at the Zanzibar in Liverpool, supporting Zenith. How did that go?
I did! What an incredible experience that was. Massive congratulations to the wonderful Zenith for their EP release, it’s absolutely fire. I was so nervous, haha. It’s always emotional singing a new song for the first time. I loved every second of it, it’s my favourite song to perform (and rehearse!). I can’t wait to sing it live again at my single launch party on the 23rd of November at The Shipping Forecast (tickets on Skiddle!).
It meant so much to me to see the excited reactions in the crowd. It was the first time anyone had heard the full song, so it was a big moment for me.
4. How do you prepare for a show and take care of your voice?
Loads of honey, loads of water, and loads of vocal rest, haha. I usually do at least two full dress rehearsals back-to-back before I leave for the show. Before I go on stage, I’ll find somewhere quiet to prepare my mind and warm up my vocals.
5. You’ve got a single launch party coming up, when and where is that happening, and who’s on the lineup?
I’ll be hosting a single launch party for my new single “Cherry Haze” on the 23rd of November at one of Liverpool’s most iconic venues, The Shipping Forecast. I have an amazing lineup supporting the show, including Liberty Fillingham, Siena Mai, Aivah, Tasha Mc, Eva-Rose, Sienna, Rachel Dawson, and Maisie Jean, eight incredible emerging pop artists based in Liverpool!
Tickets are now on sale via Skiddle. It’s going to be a very special night, and I can’t wait to celebrate with you all.
6. We’ve heard you’re a big Madison Beer fan, what did you think of her recent appearance on the Victoria’s Secret catwalk?
Huge fan of Madison Beer! She inspires me a lot as an artist, especially her album “Life Support,” which helped me through some hard times. I thought she was perfect for the show! As a fan, I’ve watched her grow as an artist over the past few years, and I’m so proud of her.
7. How would you describe your sound to someone who hasn’t heard your music yet?
My music is dark dream-pop, inspired by the likes of Dove Cameron, Madison Beer, Ariana Grande, and Lana Del Rey. I sing about my real-life experiences of love, romance, and personal inner demons.
8. Who are your biggest musical influences right now?
Lana Del Rey, Beyoncé, and Lady Gaga are currently my top three artists, although that does change very often! They inspire me not only musically, but also through their stage presence, their style, and their artistry. I love how they each create a whole world around their music.
9. What’s one lyric from “Cherry Haze” that means the most to you?
All the lyrics are meaningful to me, but “Let me see your mind, let me set you free” means the most. To me, it’s about learning to trust someone again after being let down in the past and letting love in again after being hurt.
10. What do you hope listeners take away from your new single?
Cherry Haze is a fun song about catching feelings and letting yourself fall in love. I hope it makes people feel confident, it’s a great, feel-good pop song to dance to.
11. What’s next for you after the single launch? Any more music on the way?
I’m working towards an EP that will be released in 2026, which I’m so excited to share with everyone. There’s so much to look forward to, me and the team at Big Condo Records have been working very hard behind the scenes. I can’t say too much, but yes, there’s more music and shows coming up after my launch party on the 23rd of November. Stay tuned!
12. What’s one dream venue or festival you’d love to perform at one day?
My dream venue would be Anfield Stadium. I’m a Liverpool FC supporter, so performing there would be a special one. A huge dream would also be the Pyramid Stage at Glastonbury, I love watching the festival on TV every year with my family.
Thank you so much for this interview! You can find me on all social media platforms under @emilieculshaw. Tickets are on sale now for my single launch party, I’d love to see you there!
Big shout-out to everyone who’s supporting me, it means the world. Huge thanks to everyone at my label, Big Condo Records, and a massive thank you to my manager. Thank you again for the interview.
Social Media : @emilieculshaw @bigcondorecords
