1.Your new single Fake Friend is coming out on April 12th. What inspired the story behind this song?
I’ve had my share of toxic friendships, and I wanted to write about my experiences with them. I also think it’s important to talk about relationships that involve narcissistic and controlling behaviour, and to promote empowerment and the courage to move on and leave those situations. For a long time, I didn’t realize how much these friendships were affecting my confidence and wellbeing. Looking back, I can now see patterns of manipulation and control that I once ignored or excused. Talking about these experiences helps raise awareness of how damaging these dynamics can be. It also encourages others to trust their instincts when something doesn’t feel right. Most importantly, sharing these stories can remind people that they deserve healthier and more supportive relationships.
2. The title Fake Friend is something a lot of people can relate to. Is the track based on a personal experience?
Yes, this is correct. Obviously, we have all had a fake friend in our lives at some point. Something I love about music is that it can be interpreted in whatever way resonates with you. To me, this song is based on a personal experience. Writing and recording the track was very therapeutic for me. It allowed me to process a lot of emotions I had been holding onto. Music can be a powerful way to turn difficult experiences into something meaningful. In a way, sharing it also helps others feel less alone in what they might be going through.
3. Compared to your previous releases like Trapdoor and Cherry Haze, how does Fake Friend represent your growth as an artist?
My songwriting has developed a lot, which I noticed while writing this song. I trust myself more now and have more confidence in my writing. I also enjoyed experimenting with different verse melodies and rhythms. The song is different from anything I have done before. It felt refreshing to try something new and push myself creatively. Writing it helped me realize how much I’ve grown as an artist. I’m excited to keep exploring new ideas and styles in my music.
4. Emotionally, what was the hardest part of writing or recording this song?
This song is very personal to me and is based on a real-life experience. Sharing that side of yourself with the world can be difficult. It was hard bringing back the feelings and memories from a dark time. Writing the song made me reflect on things I had tried to move past. At the same time, it helped me process those emotions in a healthier way. Music gave me a space to be honest about what I went through.
5. Many artists struggle with trust and loyalty in both life and the music industry. Did that theme influence the lyrics?
Yes, after trust has been broken, that’s something I explore deeply in the lyrics of the song. The words reflect the hurt and disappointment that come from betrayal, showing how difficult it can be to repair what was lost. Each line was written to capture the raw emotions of realizing that some relationships can’t go back to the way they were. Through the lyrics, I wanted to convey both the pain and the acceptance that sometimes letting go is the only option.
6. What message do you hope listeners take away after hearing Fake Friend?
I think the most important thing is to trust yourself more than anyone else. This is a valuable lesson I learned through this experience. Never shrink yourself to make someone else comfortable. Know your boundaries and never be afraid to make them known. If people don’t respect them, then walk away. Know your worth. You deserve the best and nothing less.
7. Sonically, what direction did you want to take with this single?
Is it closer to pop, dream-pop, or something new for you?It’s closer to dream pop than anything I have created before. I would say it’s quite influenced by Melanie Martinez and Ariana Grande. I used layered vocals to create a more ethereal sound. The production allowed me to explore textures and melodies that I hadn’t tried in previous songs. I wanted the track to feel both dreamy and emotionally resonant. Overall, it’s exciting to step outside my usual style and try something new.
8. Can you tell us a bit about the production process for the track and who you worked with in the studio?
On Fake Friend, I worked with the super-talented producer Aimee Brittania. Go and check out her music; she’s a great artist and producer. The song was executively produced and engineered by the amazing Royzy Rothschild, who absolutely smashed it, and mixed by the incredible Hikstr The Engineer. A massive thank you to the whole team for bringing this song to life, dream team.
9. You’ve been building a strong presence in the UK independent music scene. What has the journey been like so far?
The journey has been absolutely amazing and a dream come true. To everyone who has been supporting me along the way so far, I deeply appreciate each one of you; I can’t put into words how much it means to me. I would not be here without you all and my incredible label, Big Condo Records. Huge shout-out to the whole team, you guys are amazing!
10. Looking back at your debut single Trapdoor, how do you feel your songwriting has evolved since then?
Trapdoor was also an emotionally charged song, showing vulnerability around anxiety. A lot of people related to it, and I’ve received messages from listeners saying the song has helped them, which is exactly why I do this. Music is medicine; music heals. Writing Trapdoor and Cherry Haze has given me the confidence and courage to be more personal and open up even more. I have also enjoyed experimenting with different styles.
11. Social media can be both supportive and challenging for artists. How do you stay authentic while sharing your music online?
Staying true to myself is very important and setting that example matters too. I feel a sense of responsibility to the people who follow me, and I don’t want to create unrealistic expectations. Be yourself, that is enough. You should never feel like you must change for anyone.
12. Are there any artists who influenced the sound or attitude behind Fake Friend?
Artists that influenced the sound behind Fake Friend include Melanie Martinez, Madison Beer, and Ariana Grande. I love these artists so much and the dreamy vibe their records have. Their music inspired me to experiment with textures, melodies, and emotions in my own way. I wanted to capture that ethereal, expressive energy while keeping my unique style.
13. Will fans get to hear Fake Friend performed live soon?
Yes! To celebrate the release of Fake Friend, I’ll be hosting a launch party on the day of release, April 12th, in Manchester at the Fuel Cafe Bar. The event will feature support from incredible artists such as Sienna Polly, Emzz, Bethany Gibson, and Jen Marsden. Tickets are now available via Skiddle, so make sure to grab yours! Can’t wait to celebrate this release with everyone and share the music live. It’s going to be an amazing night!
14. With this new release, are you working toward a larger project like an EP or album?
Yes! I’m so excited that this release, along with Trapdoor and Cherry Haze, are all part of my debut EP, which will be released at the back end of this year! I honestly can’t put into words how much this project means to me. I poured my heart into it, and I’m so excited to share it with all you beautiful people. We have come so far, and this is a huge milestone for me. In October, I’ll be on my debut headline UK tour, and I can’t wait to perform this new music for all of you. It’s going to be so special! Stay tuned, more info will be out soon. Keep an eye on my socials @emilieculshaw on all platforms!
15. Finally, if someone is discovering Emilie Culshaw for the first time through Fake Friend, what do you hope they remember about you and your music?
I hope they feel uplifted, seen, and heard, like they are not alone. I want them to know that even in the darkest moments, there’s light at the end of the tunnel. My goal is to offer a sense of hope and connection through my music, reminding people that someone understands and cares.
@emilieculshaw @bigcondorecords ‘’Fake Friend’’ Out 12th April 2026…
