In this interview spotlight, I chat with Emmanuelle Sasson about the latest music, challenges, technology and more.

Full Q&A along with music and links below.

Where are you from and what style of music do you create?

I was born in Manhattan, New York City. I moved to South Florida when I was 5, and I’ve been living here since. My style of music varies depending on how I’m feeling at the moment. Sometimes it’s upbeat like “away from me”, but masked with honest lyrics about what I’m going through. Other times it’s a straight up ballad with a hundred stacked harmonies. Either way, no matter how the music sounds, I’m always telling a story. 

What led you down this path of music and what motivates you to keep going?

I picked up a toy guitar at 3 years old and sang “Happy Birthday” to my aunt in her living room in Israel. When I was 6, I asked my dad if I could start taking guitar lessons, and he happily agreed. Everything happened so fast after that. I taught myself bass, piano, drums, and ukulele. I’m pretty sure I’ve been singing since I came out of the womb. I started writing poetry at age 12 and began songwriting at 14. 

I was a lonely kid. I didn’t have any friends, and I really needed an outlet to express myself. Poetry was great, but I felt like I could do more. So I turned my poetry into songs. Since the day I wrote my first song, I haven’t stopped. I can’t live without it. 

Being the introvert that I am, expressing my feelings solely through speech is a challenge. I have to put it behind music. It helps me make sense out of anything I’m going through. I find it a lot easier to pick up a guitar and sing my heart out than just talking to someone. And not only do I make music to help myself, it’s so I can help others, too. Everyone needs to be reminded that they’re not alone. I hope my music does just that. Knowing that I can help a single person out there in the world keeps me motivated. 

How is this new release different than previous ones? Were you trying to accomplish anything specific?

I wrote “away from me” last January. I was in an extremely dark place. I wrote it in about 20 minutes. I knew exactly what I wanted to say and exactly how I wanted the song to sound. I’ve never felt more certain about anything. 

This song led me toward the direction of music I’ve been searching for for so long. Every listen feels like the first. 

“away from me” really set the bar for the next era of music I’m about to release. It is so different from my debut album, “smoke&mirrors”, both lyrically and sonically. 

I also really love how versatile “away from me” is. Almost anyone can relate to it. So many of my listeners have told me about their personal experiences and hardships, and how this song has positively impacted them. That’s always the main goal in my music. 

Name one or two challenges you face as an indie musician in this oversaturated, digital music age? How has technology helped you (since we know it does help)?

I don’t think my career would go anywhere without technology. I’ve gotten to meet so many incredible artists through Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook. Some of them are now my close friends. Especially now, with the current situation (COVID-19), every band and artist is taking advantage of this time to connect with their listeners through social media. I’m very grateful to have a platform where I get to do that. 

However, it does sometimes get frustrating that this is the only way to grow an audience. Music is so much more than just likes and views. That’s why I appreciate live shows so much. You get to connect with your audience directly; face-to-face. That’s my favorite part about being an artist. 

What was the last song you listened to?

The last song I listened to was “Amsterdam” by Daughter, from their album “If You Leave”. That entire album is a masterpiece from start to finish. It’s gotten me through so many difficult times. It’s definitely my favorite album, ever. 

Which do you prefer? Vinyl? CDs? MP3s?

Vinyls, for sure. I unfortunately don’t own any, but I’ve been to a lot of record stores. There’s something magical about them. It’s hard to explain. You’ll never know until you actually have one. My uncle has hundreds, some of which are extremely rare and no longer for sale. He introduced me to a lot of music through his collection. 

Do you prefer Spotify? Apple Music? Bandcamp? Or something else? Why?

I’ve had Spotify since I was in the 7th grade. I can’t see myself using any other streaming platform. Spotify feels so personal. I’ve discovered so many artists through it, and I get to make collaborative playlists with my friends for our long car rides. I also love how at the end of every year, you can see your most listened-to songs and artists. My “Artist of the Decade” was Paramore, unsurprisingly. 

Where is the best place to connect with you online and discover more music?

You can follow me on all my socials (@emsassonmusic) and follow me on Spotify by searching “emmanuelle sasson” to keep up with my releases! I have new music coming out very soon, so don’t miss it! 

Anything else before we sign off?

To anyone out there who is struggling mentally: You are not alone. As dark as it may seem, you’re going to find a way out. Hold onto hope and give yourself things to look forward to. Create something and put your name on it. That’s one more step towards fulfilling your purpose. You can do it. I believe in you!