With rock star good looks and a clutch of international music awards, pop singer Emin’s star continues to rise both at home and overseas.
Already a household name in Russia, Emin is positioned to do what no Russian male singer has ever done before — find crossover success in Western Europe and the US.
We spoke to Emin on how difficult it was becoming a pop artist in Russia, and more.
T.H.E – Hey Emin! Welcome to T.H.E – Music Essentials. How’s it going, and what have you been up to?
Emin – It’s going great thank you. We’re rehearsing for the next tour whilst constantly releasing new material, the latest, of course, being ‘Let Me Go’ which has been received really well. We’re all very happy. The collaboration with Robin Schulz was fantastic.
T.H.E – Robin Schulz has delivered a vibrant remix of your new single – Let Me Go. What made you decide on Robin, to remix the track, and how pleased are you with the result?
Emin – As we were in the studio writing and demoing the song, it felt as if it had a Robin Schulz vibe to it. So, we sent it off to him and fortunately, he loved it and wanted to make it happen. We couldn’t be happier with the result.
T.H.E – You have worked with some of the biggest stars like David Foster, Nile Rodgers and loads more. Have they always inspired you, ever since you got into music? What were some of the biggest learnings you derived from working with them?
Emin – Yes, I’ve been lucky enough to work with David Foster who is absolutely incredible and is a good friend. We filmed a PBS special together in front of the Winter Palace which was fantastic. And with Nile Rodgers, who is a total legend, of course, we did a track together called ‘Boomerang’ which was a big hit for me a few years ago. Working with guys of this caliber it becomes clear that their success is due to huge talent, integrity, an incredible work ethic, and a real focus to achieve their goals. Both these guys are top notch and truly amazing.
T.H.E – How is Russia as a market for pop music? Is it easy to get your music to the masses?
Emin – The Russian market has really transformed, and that transformation has given me a chance to launch my own label; Zhara Music along with a music festival, a music channel, and a radio station. Our demographic audience will start from the really young, from about 12 years old. They grow up really quickly, but kids of that age are super keen to hear the very best pop music.
T.H.E – What are some of the most difficult challenges you faced, while trying to make a name for yourself in Russia, and subsequently, the world?
It’s always been difficult to succeed as an artist but I’ve always believed that it starts with good music so that’s what I focus on.
T.H.E – Did pop always appeal to you, ever since you wanted to get into music?
Emin – Pop music has always been top of the list, but you may well know that I’m a big Elvis Presley fan.
T.H.E – Which pop artists would you say are doing extremely well today?
Emin – George Ezra is getting the recognition he deserves for some great material, and the latest album from The 1975 I really enjoyed. I love the Rag n Bone Man, Calvin Harris collaboration ‘Giant’ remixed by Robin. There’s a ton of great music out there by some super talented and creative artists which is fantastic.
T.H.E – If you had to name 5 artists that you would like to work with, and so far haven’t, which ones would you list?
Emin – If I had to name just 5 I would say….Sade, Adele, Chris Rea, Rita Ora, and Adriano Celentano.
T.H.E – Thanks, Emin! Can’t wait to see what you have coming up for us. :)
