See Emily Play’s latest single, “YOKO ONO WAS SEVEN YEARS OLDER THAN JOHN,” bursts onto the scene with infectious energy, opening with a quirky telephone call sample before diving into a lively, country-infused groove. The track features a dynamic vocal performance from Emily Ireland, complemented by a vibrant band arrangement that channels the spirit of her transformative road trip through Memphis and Nashville.
Inspired by her travels and the unexpected love story she found along the way, Emily returned to Liverpool with a renewed passion for songwriting and a fresh fascination with country music. Collaborating with producer Rob Whiteley (known for his work with BC Camplight and The Wombats), she sought to create a sound that was both distinctly English and uniquely “weird,” blending Shania Twain-style country-pop with her own eclectic influences. The result is a track that is raucous, joyous, and unapologetically electrifying.
“YOKO ONO WAS SEVEN YEARS OLDER THAN JOHN” showcases Emily’s distinctive blend of spaghetti-western guitars, country rhythms, and her unmistakably English vocal delivery. This unique approach to alternative-country has already earned her praise from the likes of Glenn Gregory of Heaven 17, who dubbed her a “Kate Bush in Waiting,” and The Guardian, who hailed her performances as “extraordinary.”
As a seasoned performer, Emily has shared the stage with prominent acts like The 1975 and Catfish and the Bottlemen, and her music has been featured on BBC 6Music, Amazing Radio, and BBC Radio Sheffield. Now based in Liverpool, she continues to push the boundaries of her sound, with her latest work incorporating elements of 80s New Wave and 90s Nashville, culminating in her third EP, Still Playing.
“YOKO ONO WAS SEVEN YEARS OLDER THAN JOHN” is a testament to Emily’s evolving artistry, blending her love for country music with a modern, alternative twist. This single is available now, offering listeners a fresh and captivating take on contemporary country-pop.