Celebrated for her lively performances and down to earth personality, this week popular Nipaluna/Hobart-based artist and proud Warnindhilyagwa woman hailing from Groote Eylandt, Emily Wurramara, has released her new single titled 'Midnight Blues' ahead of her one-off headline show on Gadigal Country in Sydney.
Described as a 70s-inspired track with a momentous build that Wurramara says still makes her cry, 'Midnight Blues' is a heart-wrenching but uplifting recount of a time when the world nearly lost the ARIA-nominated, multi-award-winning artist.
Co-produced by Wurramara and Kuya James (James Mangohig) (A.B. Original, Daniel Johns) and recorded at Boat Ramp Studios on Larrakia Country in Darwin, 'Midnight Blues' began its life at midnight at a festival in a chance encounter with a man wearing an octopus hat, featuring stream-of-consciousness lyrics that mirror the ways music and people can pull the biggest emotions out of us when we least expect it - and ultimately restore us.
"When I wrote this song, I had just spent New Years watching Electric Fields with my mum, gagu Shellie Morris, Toni Childs, and a couple of other friends at Woodford Folk Festival. I got separated from the crew and ended up down at the lake," Wurramara said.
"I sat there and cried my eyes out. There was this fulla who came up wearing this weird-looking octopus hat and bright flowy clothes, he asked me if I was alright and I turned around and reckoned 'oh you know brother, midnight blues'.
"I went home, I was so sad, so lost, laid down these keys on GarageBand, just pressed record and sang whatever came out. The lyrics haven't changed since then - they don't make sense, but it's a reflection on my life, my truth, my pain."
Wurramara's reflection on a year marred by struggles with postpartum depression, alcohol and attempts on her own life, 'Midnight Blues' is dedicated to the power of her mother's love and the community who saw her through it all.
"If it wouldn't be for [my mum] being there every step of the way I don't think I'd be here to be honest," she said.
"It's precious to show people why this life is beautiful and worth sticking around for; being vulnerable in itself has so much strength and staunchness. I want to help people to release, cry, and let it out - this is normal. I want 'Midnight Blues' to be a safe space to feel."
Set to launch the track at a special headline show on Gadigal Country playing familiar and unreleased music with a full band for local audiences for the first time, Wurramara's performance is bound to make headlines.
With on-stage conversations about the songs between herself and Mangohig - and appearances by some very special surprise guests, hype surrounding the singer's performance has already begun.
Having already built an applaudable on-stage reputation via sold-out headline shows, appearances and performances, Wurramara has engaged in various opportunities both locally and overseas.
The talented female artist has performed and appeared at the likes of the Sydney Opera House, Bluesfest and Groovin The Moo, in addition to performing with the Queensland Orchestra and internationally appearing at Folk Alliance International and National Sawdust.
With Wurramara on keys, Mangohig on bass, Ben Edgar on guitar (Gotye, Angus & Julia Stone, Gurrumul), Rowan Dally on drums (Kuya James, DRAFTDAY), 'Midnight Blues' builds to an outro that sees Wurramara's voice soar to new heights.
Further uplifted by those closest to her, Wurramara has lyrical backing vocals from the likes of Caiti Baker, SerinaPech, John Coulehan, Juran Adams, Mangohig and more - the very same friends and family who, along with her mother, provided a safe space for Emily when she was at her lowest.
As her artistic profile flourishes, Wurramara has also been developing her involvement and interest in the space of advocacy, further supporting important causes that require more awareness, including mental health, youth suicide prevention and environmental issues.
As her career develops to new heights and her handle on language and its emotional impact strengthens, Wurramara is developing into not just an inspiring songwriter and singer but a figure of inspiration and admiration for those who also may be or have, struggled with their mental health.
Catch Emily Wurramara live at the following venues:
5 April - Waywards w/ surprise guests, Gadigal Country / Sydney NSW (special headline show)
6 April - Ride The Wave, Birpai Country / Port Macquarie NSW
13 April - ALTAR w/ DENNI & Jimmy Kyle (Chasing Ghosts), Nipaluna/Hobart, Lutruwita TAS
26-28 April - The Gum Ball, Wonarrua Country / Hunter Valley NSW
'Midnight Blues' by Emily Wurramara is out now via ABC Music.
For more fashion, beauty and lifestyle news subscribe for free to the Style Up newsletter.
