Few contemporary figures in UK jazz have experienced a rise in prominence like Emma-Jean Thackray. Her unique versatility was showcased in her 2021 debut album ‘Yellow’, which received widespread critical acclaim. It was no surprise when she soon appeared on platforms such as Later… With Jools Holland, solidifying her status as a significant figure in the UK jazz scene. Furthermore, as a neurodivergent woman from a proud working-class background, Thackray continues to challenge boundaries in every sense, demonstrating that it is possible to occupy spaces in music—especially jazz—that have been historically dominated by middle-class white men. For this reason alone, she has every reason to take pride.
The journey leading up to Thackray’s second album ‘Weirdo’ was far from easy. Grief, overwhelming pain, and a reevaluation of life marked the process; Thackray states that creating this album was not just a form of healing but something that "saved [her] life."
We talked with Thackray to learn more about ‘Weirdo’, the different musical approaches she explored this time, and the emotional depth the album holds for her.
—
—
It’s been four years since your debut album ‘Yellow’ was released, propelling your popularity to new heights. How do you feel now when you reflect on that period?
Honestly, I don’t tend to look back. It's not that I'm ungrateful for that time or record; it’s just that my focus is solely on my current project. I tend to be very all-or-nothing, either lost in my own world or intensely focused on what I’m doing to the point where I’m hard to distract.
I produced ‘Weirdo’ by myself over the course of a year. I had forgotten about ‘Yellow’ until you brought it up, much like how everything else fades away when I’m deeply engaged in a project. It's not a reflection of my feelings for it; it's simply how I function.
Having grown up in a low-income family and now being a key player in the UK jazz scene, has Imposter Syndrome ever hindered you? Or has it fueled your desire to push boundaries through your work?
I’ve never experienced Imposter Syndrome in music. Socially, yes, but not in my music. Being neurodivergent makes me much more at ease performing for a crowd of 1,000 than engaging in a one-on-one conversation. My life has always revolved around my obsession with art. As a child, I declared my intention to be an artist, and I've never wavered in that belief. I don’t think my upbringing shaped or solidified that; I simply had to pursue my purpose, irrespective of my financial struggles.
You are now part of the Brownswood Recordings roster alongside artists like Yussef Dayes and KOKOROKO. How has that experience been for you?
I've known the Brownswood team for a long time, and I’ve always had faith in them, as people and as a label producing the music they do. Initially, I wanted to self-release my work, but with this new chapter in my life, I recognized the need for a different approach. When the opportunity arose, it felt like a perfect fit.
Personally, things are tougher than ever, so feeling supported and valued as a person—not just as an asset—by my label is crucial. It’s a genuine family atmosphere, not the insincere kind some people describe. They truly care about me.
The album delves into themes of grief. How did this shape your approach to creating ‘Weirdo’? Did you find yourself viewing it through a different lens?
I perceive music differently now because I am a different person. While music remains my passion, I had to rediscover my way back to it. I spent six months in a deep personal crisis, and when I returned to making music, it was infused with a different energy. Now, music is my sole focus. It was always a major part of my life; now it’s everything. I am still navigating the aftermath of my struggles; I have likely always been there, but creating music serves as my light amid the darkness.
—
—
As an artist who values independence and handles writing, recording, and mixing your own material, do you believe that your solitary approach to creating this album aided your healing process?
I’ve always been a solitary individual, spending nearly all my time alone. Creating the album independently was vital for me. I needed a reason to get out of bed but also had to learn to live for myself and focus on my needs rather than coordinating with others. I required my own space to make music exactly as I envisioned it, without compromise.
‘Weirdo’ articulates exactly what I needed to express, in the way I needed to express it, and making it was life-saving.
What key lessons have you learned about yourself in recent years that you
Loyle Carner is scheduled to launch his new album 'hopefully !' on June 20th. The multi-award-winning rapper was the headliner and curator of All Points East last summer.
From the very beginning, Lorde did not plan to follow a linear path. While 'Royals' became a surprising international success, she was already prepared with the
The instrumental four-piece Yuuf has signed with Ninja Tune's Technicolour label. This international quartet originates from four distinct regions globally -
David Thomas, co-founder of Pere Ubu, has passed away. The announcement was made through the band's social media platforms along with an official statement; David Thomas died with
Paul James Project captivates with their new single 'Speak To Me In Silence.' The songwriter embodies a classic vibe while skillfully incorporating those influences into his work.
The Bristol collective SCALER embarks on a new journey with 'BROKEN ENTRY'. The group blends together gritty techno, post-punk, and intense industrial sounds, featuring their
Few contemporary figures in UK jazz can match the ascent of Emma-Jean Thackray. Her unique versatility was evident throughout her 2021 projects.