This A-Profiler we bring you Emi Meyer, a musician and vocalist with the current release "Curious Creature." Find out what her thoughts are on the Internet assisting independent artists like herself, how studying ethnomusicology has given her perspective on the importance of music, and what makes a great brownie sundae.

Your site URL:
www.emimeyer.com
www.myspace.com/emimeyer

What is your ethnicity?
My ethnicity is Japanese/German/Irish.

As a musician, have you always loved music, even as a child? Did your parents have any influence on your interest in music at a young age?
Growing up, I loved listening to my mom's folksongs and our Beatles tapes. I showed interest in the piano at 6 and my parents invested in an upright. They were supportive and demanded commitment in return. I took classical lessons and was blessed with a nurturing teacher, Mrs. Michiko Miyamoto. From her, I learned how to incorporate music into my life. I was always looking to make the songs my own somehow, and I started expanding to jazz in middle school.

You've grown up in different cultures. How has that influenced your music direction and focus? How would you describe your music?
Growing up in different cultures has given me the perspective in my lyrics. People ask where I got an "old soul"— it's probably from having to clear my own space because there is no particular community I identify with. I acknowledge loneliness but celebrate the independence. I am very lucky that my parents raised me so that I can appreciate both the American and Japanese cultures. Musically, I might take jazz and the idealism of the 70's, but give it a modern twist with all of my influences.

Currently you are studying Ethnomusicology in college. Have those studies given you any perspective on where you would like to go with your own music?
Studying ethnomusicology has made me realize how important music is to culture and society. It has so many dimensions—artistic, commercial, sacred, anti-establishment...Music helps you understand a group of people. As an Ethnomusicologist, it’s important to be self-reflexive too: I examine how my own identity affects my music-making process. This reception component is especially relevant if you want to address the under-representation of Asian Americans in the US music industry. Right now I'm researching the music scene in Kyoto, Japan, which is also my birthplace.

You've released three albums with your current release "Curious Creature." How has your most recent album been received? What inspired the songs on this latest release? What does the title mean?
This is my first official CD. It’s a diary of my travels and transition to college and figuring out who I am becoming. I am fascinated by the world and others often say I am "mysterious," so Curious Creature seemed an apt title. I’m distributing it through CDBaby, at shows in the States and Japan, and having songs used in films. Despite the language barrier, I’m honored that it’s been well-received in Japan so far.

Do you feel the Internet has helped independent artists like you get more exposure? Where do you see yourself as a music artist in a few years from now?
Absolutely. The internet has opened doors to venues, listeners, and musicians in Japan. My music isn't commercial, so it's a longer path ahead for me. I am extremely happy with that. I will keep writing music and exploring all that process has to offer. I think experience helps me grow, in turn enriching my music. If I keep gathering an audience that appreciates my music, I will be very happy.

How do you approach your songwriting? Are you constantly thinking about songs and writing songs?
I think about songs all the time. ALL the time. Sometimes fragments of lyrics or chords come together after awhile. Other times, something will move me and I'll write a song at the piano in one sitting—that's the best feeling.

I've read that you like to make things. What sorts of things do you enjoying making? You also like brownie sundaes. Do you have a secret recipe for your favorite brownie sundae?
I like making connections: between ideas or emotions and the world outside. I think music bridges that gap. Also, since you asked...The recipe for a successful brownie sundae is the company of your best friend when you're in LA, coffee beans when you're in Seattle, and 3am for a truly ethereal experience.

What advice do you have for other aspiring music artists trying to create their own independent CD?
Trying to make a living as a musician takes organizing and covering your bases, but if you believe what you're doing is meaningful, every person that connects to your music makes it worth it. It takes a lot of work, but if it's truly what you want to do, the effort will feel effortless.

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This issue of A-Profiler is brought to you by Nelson Wong.
Special thanks to Emi Meyer.

Photos used with permission.
Copyright retained by original copyright holder(s).