Summary
In this conversation between Ryan Roghaar and James Atkin, lead singer of EMF, they discuss the band's journey from their beginnings in Gloucestershire to global fame with their hit "Unbelievable." He reflects on their rapid rise, the challenges of fame, and the evolution of their sound. The discussion also covers the shifting music industry landscape, including the role of touring, merchandise, and innovative strategies for success.
James and Ryan go on to explore how record labels have evolved, the impact of digital metrics on touring and music discovery, and the significance of live music. They also touch on the band's legacy, lessons learned, music's role in social change, and the industry's future with new releases and tours.
EMF is hitting the road for 11 dates with Spacehog and Ecce Shnak!
14 June: The Ritz, San Jose CA
15 June: Great American Music Hall, San Francisco CA
17 June: Star Theater, Portland OR
18 June: Neptune, Seattle WA
20 June: Metro Music Hall, Salt Lake City UT
21 June: Oriental Theater, Denver CO
23 June: Crescent Ballroom, Phoenix AZ
24 June: Music Box, San Diego CA
26 June: The Observatory, Santa Ana CA
27 June: The Regent, Los Angeles CA
28 June: House of Blues, Las Vegas NV
Takeaways
- EMF's journey began in Gloucestershire with five school friends.
- The song 'Unbelievable' became a global hit, reaching number one in the US.
- Sampling Andrew Dice Clay's work was a stroke of luck for EMF.
- The band's rise to fame was rapid, requiring extensive touring and promotion.
- The second album 'Stigma' marked a departure from their pop sound to a more indie rock style.
- Ralph Jezzard played a crucial role in producing EMF's music, bridging their early and modern sound.
- The music industry has shifted from record sales to touring and merchandise as primary income sources.
- Innovative strategies like bundling concert tickets with album sales are emerging.
- EMF now operates as an independent entity, managing their own music and marketing. The role of record labels has diminished significantly.
- Metrics from platforms like Spotify drive touring decisions.
- The live music experience is becoming less accessible to new fans.
- Musicians are increasingly using their platforms for social change.
- Financial literacy is crucial for artists managing their income.
- The music industry is more competitive and metrics-driven than ever.
- Creativity in business is essential for success in the music industry.
Chapters
00:00 The Rise of EMF: From Gloucestershire to Global Fame
07:07 Sampling Success: The Story Behind 'Unbelievable'
14:01 Navigating Fame: The Impact of 'Unbelievable' on EMF's Career
20:50 Evolution of Sound: The Transition from 'Schubert Dip' to 'Stigma'
27:51 The Modern Music Landscape: Challenges and Opportunities for Artists
31:49 The Evolution of Record Labels
33:46 Metrics Over Music: The New Touring Landscape
35:58 The Live Music Experience: A Lost Art?
37:49 Keeping the Legacy Alive: The Business of Music
39:51 Navigating the Music Industry: Lessons Learned
42:17 The Future of Music: New Releases and Tours
45:38 Music and Social Change: A New Era
48:28 Reflections on a Music Career: Key Takeaways
Learn more about the band:
https://emf-theband.com
Credits:
Hosted by Michael Smith and Ryan Roghaar
Produced by Ryan Roghaar
Theme music: "Perfect Day" by OPM
The Carton:
https://medium.com/the-carton-by-eggs
Feature with Zack Chmeis of Straight Method up now!
https://medium.com/the-carton-by-eggs/zack-chmeis-35dae817ac28
The Eggs Podcast Spotify playlist:
bit.ly/eggstunes
The Plugs:
The Show: eggscast.com
@eggshow on twitter and instagram
On iTunes: itun.es/i6dX3pCOn
Stitcher: bit.ly/eggs_on_stitcher
Also available on Google Play Music!
Mike "DJ Ontic":
Shows and info:djontic.com
@djontic on twitter
Ryan Roghaar:
rogha.ar
