Meet Jemima: Singer-Songwriter

We had the good fortune of connecting with Jemima and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Jemima, we’d love to hear about how you approach risk and risk-taking
I’m personally a big fan of risk-taking. I wouldn’t have achieved half of the things I have if I hadn’t taken some risks. There’s a natural apprehension when faced with a decision that could go wrong, but ultimately I think that taking the chance is worth it. It could result in something really wonderful. And if it doesn’t, then you move on and try something new. Sometimes, a “failed” risk can lead you to something even better.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I’m a singer-songwriter, I play guitar, piano and ukulele (though I’d love to learn many more instruments – I’m looking at you, mandolin). The music I write could be described as folk-pop. I love telling stories through songs and including real details from the situations I’m writing about.

I’m really proud of, and grateful for, the way people have reacted to the music I’ve put out. There has been so much support and many kind words. It means a lot because it helps me continue to do what I love, but also because these songs are so personal to me. So to have someone reach out and tell you they mean a lot to them too, it just makes my heart glow.

Last year on its release day, my EP reached #1 on the iTunes singer-songwriter chart in Australia. It was an incredible, incredible feeling. All of the credit goes to the people who bought the songs, of course. There’s no way that could have happened if it wasn’t for their generosity, and I’m aware that fewer people are buying music these days. So it’s the biggest compliment and I don’t take it for granted.

I’m so excited to release more music. The process can be overwhelming; there’s a lot of behind-the-scenes work involved, but it’s so rewarding. I’d like to put out a couple of singles this year. I’m also desperate to perform again when the pandemic permits it.

I started busking when I was 14-years-old until I began doing music professionally when I was about 17. Then, when I moved to London a couple of years ago, I started busking again to make a bit of extra money. It brought about new challenges, like lugging around all my gear on the tube and playing outside in 4-degree weather (thank god for fingerless gloves). But it’s always an interesting time and a good way to overcome insecurity, because there’s not much room for it when you’re busking.

That certainly doesn’t mean I don’t get insecure though (because I do. All. The. Time). But when I start feeling doubtful of myself/my music/my goals, I try to focus on the parts of it I just adore. Like the moment you find that perfect lyric. Or when little kids are dancing at a gig. Or the messages from people saying they feeling understood by a certain song. There’s no feeling like it.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
There are so many people in my life that deserve a shoutout. I’d like to thank my nan for being so supportive, of my music but just in general too. She’s such a strong, generous woman and I’ve learned a lot from her.

Website: https://www.jemimamusic.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jemimamusic/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/jemimasong

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JemimaMusic/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/Jemimaofficial

Image Credits
Caitlin Schokker