Emerson

Winner of the 2024 Smokefree Rockquest Solo-Duo category, Emerson has quickly launched herself into the upper ranks of New Zealand’s rising pop artists. Since 2022, she has honed her skills across successful local indie bands as bassist, backup singer, rhythm guitarist, and lead singer-songwriter.

Emerson debuted her live act in 2024, opening for Bella Rafflyn, playing the Flying Out stage at The Other’s Way Festival and opening for Will Swinton. Her first-ever headline show at The Tuning Fork in March 2025 was a smashing success.

Her first release of 2025, You Really Must Hate Me!—co-written and produced by Harry Charles—garnered over 75,000 Spotify streams and landed on four major international Spotify Editorial playlists, including hits different.
A sought-after songwriter, Emerson has also collaborated with local artists including Frankie Venter ('I Like It Like That'), Teo Glacier, Keenan Te, Macey, Rosetta, and Lucy Gray.
Her single 'Bored', debuted in 2024 at #16 on Aotearoa’s Hot 20 chart, and won ZM’s Best Song at last year’s Rockquest National final. 'I Want You To Know Me' and accompanying music video are supported by NZOA Music for her Rockquest win.

Her big goal for 2025 is to grace the stages of several festivals, including Going Global.