Emily Hurd does not craft tunes for the faint of heart. The wordsmith's live performance showcases her breathtaking vocals, fearless lyrics, and unique piano and ukulele musicianship. In her latest release, "Daytime Fireflies," the vocal dynamo takes a daring leap from her traditional sound while maintaining her keen ability to tap into matters of the soul and then express them candidly. Hurd's pianistic punch, vintage grooves, stunning arrangements, and memorable melodies are catching the ears of fans across the globe.
Originally from Rockford, Illinois, Hurd has been touring her native midwest and both coasts of the U.S. for years. Often compared to Regina Spektor and Feist, Hurd has developed a no-excuses performance savvy; what you hear is what she is. Well-traveled and well-versed, she is the quintessential indie national act, performing for growing pockets of loyal followers who revel in her clever rhymes and honest showmanship.
Backed by a band, Hurd blasts through her tunes with Joplinesque soul. She has shared the stage with Bettye Lavette, Ozomatli, and Irma Thomas, to name a few. On her own, she candidly roots her audience into her storytelling and storyselling, and has opened as a solo act for the likes of Roger McGuinn and Geoff Muldaur. Hurd plays live with piano, ukulele, and also harmonica.
As a child, Emily spent most of her upbringing immersed in music. She still counts Hoagie Carmichael, Kris Kristofferson, and Scott Joplin as her biggest musical influences. Through high school, culinary school, and later while getting her BA in Music Business from Columbia College in Chicago, Hurd developed a fondness for Solomon Burke, Mahalia Jackson, Fanfarlo, Tom Waits, The Low Anthem, Neutral Milk Hotel, The Fratellis, Greg Brown, Mavis Staples, Dr. Dog, Lyle Lovett, and Spoon.
"Like most things, songwriting is more a function of being open than it is about skill," Hurd says. Assuming this to be true, her open nature has won her the praise of critics and judges internationally. Her song "The Likes Of You" was a winner in the 2009 International Songwriting Competition and the 2008 Unisong International Songwriting Contest, and "Make a Bed" was a finalist in the 2008 John Lennon Songwriting Contest.
Hurd has released her 6th record of original music, "Daytime Fireflies." Her past discography includes: "A Cache In The Warehouse Floor," 2008, "Love In Flats," 2007, "Barefoot Session," 2006, "Potent One," 2006, "Lines," 2005.