Empire Child Talks New Music, Musical Influences And More
Words by Glenn Sargeant
Feature Image Photo Credit: Tomas Moya
Empire Child is the new musical project of Ruth Rothwell. Her debut single ‘Trace The Race’ is out now with more music coming soon.
What is your earliest musical memory?
I think my earliest musical memory is of the voice of Elvis Presley his records were always on rotation in my house.
When did you begin songwriting?
I messed around as a young child with writing songs. I didn’t start taking it seriously until I hit 20. Then I started with the piano and my journey began.
You have released your single ‘Negativity Be Gone’. What was the story/inspiration behind the track?
I felt like we are always checking our own thoughts. I wanted a clarion call about inviting the positive into our lives. It is well known we create our thoughts and feelings. For me I wanted a song that says yes it’s ok to ask for the positives in life.
Where did you record the track and who produced it?
The album was recorded in Madrid with some very talented musicians. It was produced by Mariano Diaz a jazz Professor.
Do you have any interesting, funny or memorable stories from the recording sessions?
I think one of the funniest ones was me being me, I always bring food! I was asked to make it healthy normally mixed nuts and fruits. I brought in these bags of mixed nuts and everyone was devouring them so quickly! I was like wow they like these! Then someone looked at the packets and said omg it has chocolate in there!!
That’s why they were eaten so quickly. 😂
Did you use any particular instruments, microphones, recording equipment to help you get a particular sound/tone for the record?
I think for me the Live room in a studio is the most important. I recorded in Infinity studios which has a super high ceiling so the space is incredible acoustically.
Which of your tracks hear you at your a) happiest, b) angriest and c) most reflective?
a) Happiest is by Boat it’s reggae some I immediately get summer vibes and wanting to dance. B) Angriest is I am the Knight..it speaks to the role of women in society. The line “I’m no DI hire” really hit home for me.
C) most reflective is Peacefully Does it… I know it’s difficult to stay calm and collected but we have to try and keep trying
Who were the musicians who were on the song with you?
Marian Diaz played the piano. We then had a great bass player Victor Melo, Drums Daniel Garcia Bruno and great sax player Miguel Parrando
Was it a difficult song to write?
This song was a joy to write every time I sang the chorus I felt better about the world.
Where is your hometown and could you please describe it in five words?
London Cosmopolitan Cultured Historic and vibrant
Do you have any live dates planned in the UK/Europe in 2026?
Yes I am planning a mini tour in October starting in London then Madrid.
What two things do you hope to have achieved once you have left the stage?
I hope that people will be touched by the songs and that people would have heard something new and interesting.
Do you have any favoured stage instruments, effects, pedals, microphones etc?
I am a percussion lover and I am hoping to use some handheld Brazilian percussive instruments.
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?
The novel I would most probably love to score would be a remake of 1984. George Orwell. I think the scope and depth of this story would allow you to explore so many genres and emotions.
Who are some of your musical influences? Do you have any recommendations?
My musical influences are the classic soul singers. Marvin Gaye Aretha Franklin. Plus folk greats like Joni Mitchell and Laura Nyro. I am really impressed by the new album of Thundercat his ability to keep Jazz music ever evolving.
Do you have any further new music releases planned for this year?
Yes my 3rd single is out in May called Cut those Ties.
What makes Empire Child happy and what makes you unhappy?
Justice for all makes me happy. I know it’s idealistic and that definitely makes me unhappy!
Feature Image Photo Credit: Tomas Moya
Empire Child’s debut single ‘Trace The Race’ is out now.
Listen Here: https://open.spotify.com/track/2BJzBdi26i6T2eInbYGjZ0?si=34782ee5a37a4c2b&nd=1&dlsi=4591b72c12154366
The single ‘Negativity Be Gone’ is also out now.
Listen Here: https://open.spotify.com/album/4YfDtcRXrYW8nsHy93nIJQ?si=E2YMrXoaQcOhxav3jaHJTA&nd=1&dlsi=c86c14b2c51c4735
https://www.instagram.com/theempirechild
