Emma Rowley’s new single, “Reunion”, is an empowering message to an ex, expressing the need to move on and move forward. The lyrics emphasize independence and identity through a combination of directly speaking to the narrator’s ex and reflections about herself. While a bit remorseful for having wasted time in the relationship, there is not a single malicious word in the song. It’s the healthiest way to move forward after a breakup: no reunion. The song shows that the narrator’s former relationship was holding her back. This is a track to play on repeat after a breakup, acting as an inspiring reminder not to fall back into a situation that isn’t right.
The words are a demand to break the cyclical nature of a ten-year relationship with someone who won’t become any less selfish or petty over time. In the very first verse, Emma sings “old habits really die hard. Maybe this is just who you are, still giving the go-around”. The lyrics communicate how the narrator’s ex does not understand her, and in the last line of the bridge, the key point of the song comes out: “so why would I waste my time?” Instrumentals cut out for that last word, giving the vocals a true and pure expression of identity. Time is precious, and “Reunion” encourages listeners not to waste theirs on anyone who doesn’t treat them how they deserve.
Bold, simple percussion is paired with ambient, bright electronic chords that ascend and repeat throughout the entire song. There is a reverberating sound accompanying changes between chords that can only be described as powerful. This is no ordinary sombre breakup song, it’s one filled with upbeat motivation. Emma’s vocals are feminine and expressive, forcing clear emotion into the words that is reminiscent of pop from the early 2010s. At the end of the chorus, she sings the song’s title, which reaches a catchy high note. Just as the track ends, before the instrumentals stop, there is a chirping sound like a referee whistle, calling time.
Emma Rowley is a Nashville-based musician, originally from Leeburg, Virginia, who has been a part of the music and theatre scene since she debuted in “Gypsy” on Broadway at the age of thirteen. This musical theatre experience brought her to perform as a soloist at Carnegie Hall following Tony Bennet, and eventually to perform in “Bye Bye Birdie”. Moving through her teens, Emma’s focus shifted to writing music. She studied music at Belmont University and discovered her pop and rock voice. She is a member of the independent folk group Every Echo, who put out their first album in 2020. As a solo artist, she produces alt-pop music. Her first album, “Orange”, debuted in 2023. She is featured in music by other artists like The Slang. Her voice is featured in SOLARIA, a vocaloid (Artificial Intelligence tool for song creators) that can sing anything creators choose. As an artist, Emma Rowley has found a resonant sound in her alternative pop music.
Written By Hanna Kowal
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