Gemma Laurence explores pain and its impact on our lives in her whimsical and folky single, “Bloodlines.”
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Stream: “Bloodlines” – Gemma Laurence.
“You can reflect on the past, but don’t fixate on it.”
I'm not sure where I first encountered that line — perhaps it was said to me casually, maybe I skimmed it while scrolling on my phone, or possibly it was tucked inside a fortune cookie — it’s a mystery.
Having witty proverbs to cling to during challenging times can be comforting. After all, dropping these phrases into casual chats feels like a cool — though slightly nerdy — party trick. But what truly draws us to these words is their overall significance; the solace they provide and the profound wisdom they convey.
This idea is beautifully embodied in Gemma Laurence’s “Bloodlines,” which can be seen as a musical proverb if you’re in a contemplative mood.
Released on April 4 via Main Factor/Mad Dragon Records, this track marks the beginning of the Brooklyn-based singer/songwriter’s third album, We Were Bodies Underwater, set to arrive later this summer.
“‘Bloodlines’ feels like the ideal opening chapter for the album. It’s one of the earliest songs I wrote for the record and encapsulates its themes well,” Laurence states. “It's about the persistence of the past; despite our efforts to move beyond our trauma, it will always linger. Yet, we have the choice to maintain a big heart and continue loving regardless of our challenges. It’s a song about resilience, but it carries a certain darkness.”
So, how can we push ourselves to be more than the sum of our past experiences? What does it require to honor our pain without being overwhelmed by it?
Providing a potential answer to these questions without veering into excessive optimism, Laurence remains grounded, singing over a gently plucked banjo: “You’ve got a big heart, in spite of it all.”
Gemma Laurence © Ross Page.
It's easy to lash out from our pain, creating further suffering for ourselves and others.
The more challenging task is to soothe our wounded selves rather than inflict damage on those around us, just as we’ve been hurt. Thus, we evolve by nurturing one another and fostering love within our communities. There’s immense joy in both loving and being loved, and in granting ourselves the grace to heal.
In “Bloodlines,” Gemma Laurence delivers a key message to her audience: you are not defined by your pain. As spring brings a sense of renewal, let her insightful words serve as a guide. While our pasts may always be a part of us, we can look to the future with hope.
Continue reading below to discover more about Gemma Laurence and “Bloodlines”!
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:: Stream/Purchase Bloodlines here ::
:: Connect with Gemma Laurence here ::
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Stream: “Bloodlines” – Gemma Laurence.
A CONVERSATION WITH GEMMA LAURENCE
Atwood Magazine: It’s been two weeks since the release of your latest single, “Bloodlines” — how are you feeling?
Gemma Laurence: I’m feeling fantastic! The response has been overwhelmingly positive, and it’s clear that people are really connecting with the song, which makes me incredibly happy.
What emotions usually accompany you during a release cycle? Do you feel more excitement or anxiety now that the song is out, or maybe something entirely different?
Gemma Laurence: It's definitely a release in both senses – each release feels like a letting go, a cathartic experience. Some of these songs (including “Bloodlines”) have been with me for years, so it feels truly special to finally share them with others.
Can you update me on your career — what motivated you to start releasing music, and what keeps your passion for being a musician alive?
Gemma Laurence: I’ve been writing music for as long as I can remember. It feels like there’s this electric energy within me that only finds release through writing music and performing. I don't think there will ever be a day when I’ll lack passion for what I do – it energizes me. My favorite aspect of the job is the community I’ve been able to build through music, which I’ve really come to appreciate while touring this past year.
Gemma Laurence © Charlotte Schweiger.
You began with classical piano training — how did you come to discover that folk and Americana were the perfect genres for your music? What draws you to these styles?
Gemma Laurence: I took classical piano lessons for about ten years as a child, but it never felt quite right for me. It wasn’t until I was around 13 and watched an episode of the show Unfabulous — you know, the one with Emma Roberts on Nickelodeon — that I realized I wanted to play guitar. I asked my mom (seriously), “Um... Mom, do you think I’m
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Gemma Laurence explores the nature of pain, its influence on our identities, and our journey forward in her whimsical and folk-infused single, “Bloodlines.”