Up Close and Personal With Emma White

Every great musician or musical act needs to start somewhere. That's what makes the consumption of local music so important. Every time you go to a show at the Recher Theatre or listen to a showcase on WTMD, you could be hearing the next Bruce Springsteen, the next Van Halen, or even the next Joni Mitchell.

The following is the first part of an interview with local singer/songwriter (and, like this writer, Towson High alum) Emma White. Check back for the conclusion on Tuesday.

How did you get your start in music?

Music was always a big part of my family. We were always playing, always singing. Every morning I remember waking up to something playing in the house. I first started singing musical theatre songs at a young age. When I was about 8 I really wanted to perform and did a local production of Annie and started singing the National Anthem at baseball games. My family has always been a huge influence in my music. We have hootenannies at every family party. Everyone together playing guitars and singing. My mom has definitely been the biggest influence on my music. She's a songwriter and was working on her first album when I was three. I'd try to help her finish her songs—now she'd usually helping me finish mine.

Did you always know music was something you wanted to pursue or did you have other plans prior?

I always knew it was what I wanted to do. I had that child like assuredness about it, without a doubt. I just didn't know how or when it would happen. Even though I knew I'd eventually be pursuing music, there were definitely times where I dreamed of doing other things. At one point I was planning to be a land developer, and then I seriously considered being a point guard in the WNBA, but I don't think that could've really worked out. But at this point I don't really have anything else I'd ever want to do—at least not yet!

How would you describe your sound/style?

My sound, the subject of much debate. I call my style pop/soul. I love singing all kinds of music but my three main influences are pop, country and R&B. I love it all and really don't want to have to choose! At shows I'll cover Bob Dylan, Tower of Power and Patty Griffin in the same set, then add my original stuff which is pretty pop-driven. I don't think I really have to declare that I do only one genre. I cover a lot of country so I have a feeling I may take that direction but I grew up loving R&B and hip hop too, and have a side project with my friend, Andrew who's a rapper. I know it's sounds confusing, but I think that no matter what, it comes down to the song. I don't care what genre it falls in. If it's a good song that's moving, that's really all that matters to me.

You can visit Emma at her mySpace page www.myspace.com/emmawhitesmusic for new songs, show listings and live video.

Also, keep track via the following:

www.twitter.com/emmawhite88

www.reverbnation.com:80/emmawhitesmusic

www.facebook.com/pages/Emma-White/157183692623