Emily Fern Talks New Christmas Single, Her Voice And More

Newcomer Emily Fern has teamed up with the London Symphony Orchestra to introduce the future classic ‘Christmas Dream’. She very kindly spoke to us here: 

 

When did you begin songwriting?

I started writing when I was about 11. I’d always been singing and performing, but songwriting gave me a way to express things that I couldn’t always say out loud. It’s something that’s always felt really natural to me.

 

What is your earliest musical memory?

My first real memory is singing at a local talent show. It was the first time I stepped on a stage, and even though it was small, it gave me that spark I’ve carried ever since.

 

Your new single “Christmas Dream” is out now. What was the inspiration/story behind the track?

It started out as a piano idea that I wrote with Adam Reece. We wanted to capture that feeling of reflection that comes around at Christmas, thinking about the people you love, those you miss, and just holding onto hope for what’s ahead. It’s nostalgic, but it’s hopeful too.

 

Where did you record the track and who produced it?

We recorded it at Abbey Road Studios with the London Symphony Orchestra, which still feels surreal to say. It was orchestrated and conducted by David Simms, and engineered by Abbey Road’s John Barrett, who’s worked on projects for artists including George Ezra and James Bay, as well as major film scores like Avengers: Endgame and Phantom Thread.

 

Do you have any interesting, funny or memorable stories from the recording sessions?

Honestly, the whole thing was unforgettable. Working with the orchestra was such a pinch-me moment. Having Bez come in and add his little sparkle at the end just made everyone smile, it brought a really fun energy to the session. Phil Hartnoll was also a joy to work with!

 

The single is accompanied by an official music video. What was the thought process behind the video and who directed it?

We wanted the video to almost feel like a documentary of the day and the people involved. It captures the atmosphere, the emotion and the team behind Christmas Dream. It was filmed by Richard Truscott, who did an amazing job of bringing the whole experience to life in such an honest, natural, authentic way.

 

Did you use any particular instruments, microphones or recording equipment to help get a particular sound/tone for the record?

At Abbey Road I had access to vintage microphones such as the Neumann U47 introduced in 1949 and used by the likes of Frank Sinatra and the Beatles!

 

Was it a difficult song to write?

It actually came together really naturally. We were sat one evening before an intimate music night where I was showcasing some of my originals, and we were short on time so needed to add another song to the set. Adam started playing a little trill on the piano, and we began piecing some lyrics together. Within minutes, Christmas Dream was born, it just felt right from the start and pretty much wrote its self.

 

What does Christmas mean to you?

It’s about slowing down, being present and appreciating what’s around you. I love the feeling of calm that comes after a busy year, and just spending time with the people who mean the most.

 

Which of your tracks hear you at your a) happiest, b) angriest and c) most reflective?

a) Christmas Dream definitely captures me at my happiest. It’s full of warmth and gratitude.

b) Story In Your Mind, which is coming next year, came from a place of strong emotion. I wouldn’t say the song is angry, but it was born out of that feeling. I tend to distract myself from emotions and turn something that might not be so beautiful into something beautiful instead. It’s got this powerful, dramatic energy, almost a James Bond feel.

c) I’d say Christmas Dream again for my most reflective. It’s about appreciating what really matters, reflecting on the good and the bad and coming together as one.

 

What two things do you hope to have achieved once you have left the stage?

That people felt something real, and that I gave everything I had in that moment.

 

Do you have any favoured stage instruments, effects, pedals, microphones etc.?

Always my Shure SM wireless mic, I love the freedom it gives me to connect with people. I also have always been a lover of the BOSE vocal effects pedal, I love to have the sound as if I’m in a church, that kind of roomy cinematic sound.

 

Where is your hometown and could you please describe it in five words?

Guernsey…Peaceful, picturesque, calm, homely, quiet.

 

How do you look after your voice?

Water is my best friend, and Strepsils are my favourite “sweet” lol! And of course I do all the good stuff like steaming and warming up!

 

You are given the opportunity to write the score for a film adaptation of a novel that you enjoy. Which novel is it and why?

I’d choose a story that’s emotional and imaginative – something that allows music to really elevate the mood, like a romantic comedy or a fantasy film. I believe music can take people to another place, and if I can create a score that helps someone forget their everyday troubles, even just for a moment or two, then I’d see that as a job well done.

 

Who are some of your musical influences? Do you have any recommendations?

Adele for her emotional honesty, RAYE for her vulnerability – not forgetting her insane vocals , Elton John for his storytelling through his songwriting, Amy Winehouse Raw and timeless and Birdy, her writing and delivery is so delicate yet so powerful.

 

Do you have any UK/European live dates planned for 2025/2026?

Yes, I’m performing at Collette Cooper’s album launch in Chelsea this month, which I’m really looking forward to. There are also a few exciting things in the works for next year, which I’ll be sharing more of soon.

 

Do you have any further music releases planned for 2026?

Absolutely…Watch this space.

 

What makes Emily Fern happy and what makes you unhappy?

An ice-cold Diet Coke and my piano in a quiet room. I just love to write. What makes me unhappy is dishonesty — honesty is always the answer.

Feature Image Photo Credit: Supplied By Dedikated PR

Emily Fern’s new single ‘Christmas Dream feat. London Symphony Orchestra’ is out now.

Listen: https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/emilyfern1/christmas-dream-feat-london-symphony-orchestra

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emilyfernsinger/