Introducing... Emily and The Woods

Hailing from West London, Emily is the eldest daughter of an art therapist mother and musician father. Having grown up listening to an array of folk, jazz, blues and soul, her influences range from the likes of Bill Withers to Fionn Regan.

At the young age of 20, Emily recorded her first demos along with Laura Marling, half way through her studies at University. Since graduating Emily has supported the likes of Ben Howard, Ed Sheeran, Lucy Rose and The Staves and has gained quite the following and accreditation her music so rightly deserves.

I was lucky enough to catch up with Emily who was gracious enough to take a few moments to explain her current journey and what we can expect in the upcoming months. If you haven’t heard from Emily just yet, here’s a little introduction, I hope you enjoy.

DaisyDigital: When did your musical journey begin?

Emily Wood: I grew up in a musical family and I didn't start playing the guitar until I was in my late teens. I wasn't really interested before that. However I did write songs so I realised that I needed a way of playing them! 

With comparisons rife to the likes of Lucy Rose and Rachel Sermanni, who would you say have been your main influences, both musically and lyrically?

E: I love Joni Mitchell and her music has always been an important influence. She speaks so directly about things, and her words are beautiful poetry. The music fits to express those lyrics and I love that. I do listen to all kinds of music; at the moment there's been lots of The XX and my one of my favourite singers is Erykah Badu.

Quite the family affair, playing with your Dad and Brother, what’s that like?

E: It's good fun! I like how honest you can be with your family… Although I'm sure it gets me into trouble sometimes. I really appreciate their support and encouragement too.

If you could collaborate with a person, past or present who would it be?

E: I hugely admire Thom Yorke... 

Now, time to wrack the brain, what’s been your most memorable gig to date?

E: I think it's got to be playing at Lusty Glaze beach supporting Ben Howard last year. The view from the stage, out to the sea, was absolutely beautiful!

What should we look forward to in the upcoming months from Emily & The Woods?

E: Lots of new music! I can't wait for you guys to hear what we've been working on... Things are changing and the new songs are taking on an exciting form! 

And lastly, please do a duet with Lianne La Havas or Rae Morris, that’d be great, thank you!

Ah, they are both brilliant!

Thank you Emily, now to leave you with a truly excellent song, Emily & The Woods - 'Steal His Heart'

The latest EP, ‘Eye to Eye’ produced by Patrick Wood and featuring Ted Dwane of Mumford & Sons, is available now on iTunes.