Dublin singer songwriter Emma Hynes has released her new single, Sierra, with her debut album to follow next year. We asked her the BIG questions . . .
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Her last release, The Space Between, was included on the RTÉ Radio 1 Recommends for two consecutive weeks in 2022.
"With its roots in both Ireland and Spain, Sierra is inspired in part by meditations and encounters had on a trip to the city of Córdoba, which features on the single artwork, and was written back home in Dublin," she says.
Tell us three things about yourself . . .
I love the magic of creativity. Something comes forth, I grab it, run with it, shape it, finish it, and then there's a new thing in the world which didn't exist before, and I've made it.
Time alone, in nature, and silence, is essential to me. It's where I get my inspiration and energy for everything else.
Having my mind opened and challenged by music, art, photography, poetry, prose, places and people is something I relish. If I'm running, inspired, to my journal and my hand can't keep up with what I'm writing, I know it's been a special encounter.
How would you describe your music?
It emerges from within, and I just go with it, whatever the sound. With my new song and forthcoming album, you'll find alt-folk mixed with influences from Spain and the Spaghetti Western. I'd describe it as cinematic in parts with rock, pop and indie sensibilities. This is a new era for me, and I'm very excited about it.
Who are your musical inspirations?
My family. Sing-songs from childhood left an indelible mark on my heart and memory. It's a privilege to have the music in them handed down to me through generations, and to honour that legacy.
I've been inspired by so many bands, artists, albums, songs and performances that I wish I could mention them all. Three consistent sources of inspiration over the years have been Jarvis Cocker, Gaz Coombes, and Neil Hannon. Rick Rubin's book, The Creative Act: A Way of Being, is also a fascinating read for anyone drawn to making things, and the artistic life.
What was the first gig you ever went to?
I'm named after Emmylou Harris and saw her at the National Stadium on the 18 of September 1992, aged 11. I can't find any mention of this concert online, so thanks to my Mam for keeping the ticket.
What was the first record you ever bought?
The Beach Boys 20 Golden Greats. As a child who adored their music, their songs sounded like what being in love must feel like. As an adult who still does, it's wonderful to know that I was right.
What's your favourite song right now?
Tina from Pulp's new album, More. It's a quintessential track by the band, though fresh and different; the kind of song you can see playing out in full colour in your mind. It was fantastic to hear it live recently at their magnificent concert in the 3Arena.
Favourite lyric of all time?
A lifetime with music and words makes this an especially difficult question. There are sucker punch lyrics that stand out on their own, and others that work beautifully in the overall context of a song. After much deliberation, it's a line that does both for me, from America by Simon & Garfunkel: "Kathy, I'm lost," I said, though I knew she was sleeping".
If you could only listen to one song for the rest of your life, what would it be?
I have to go with the track that keeps coming to mind every time I think about this question; Turn the Car Around by Gaz Coombes. I don't think I'll ever be without this beautiful song.
Where can people find your music / more information?
My new single, Sierra, along with all past and future releases, can be heard on the streaming service of your choice here. To read more about me and my music and subscribe for the latest updates, I have a website.
Alan Corr
