Just over a year ago, a Vancouver woman quit her comfortable career and took her life on the road to pursue her true passion: music.
And it’s a passion that R&B and soul singer Emily Chambers is bringing to Lorenzo’s Cafe July 25, and Wilbur’s Piano Bar in Kelowna July 23.
“I quit my day job in insurance last March, bought a camper van in April, released my debut EP Magnolia in September and toured it through the U.S. in the fall, playing in L.A., Austin, New Orleans, Nashville, New York City and more,” Chambers said. “I’m back in B.C. and excited to share this music closer to home.”
Chambers had planned the drastic lifestyle change for a while but wanted to ensure she was financially stable before taking the proverbial leap.
“I just always had one foot out, and I wanted to put two feet in,” Chambers said. “It was scary at first, but it feels good.”
Drawing inspiration from her idols Lauryn Hill and Amy Winehouse, Chambers’ five-song debut EP Magnolia blends up-beat sounds on tracks like opener Jumpstart My Bones, and at times atmospheric beats such as with the EP’s closing tune Just Let Me Be with Chambers’ sultry vocals to create what she calls “gritty, sexy, groove-based stuff.”
And it’s a sound and experience that translates to her live performance.
“You can expect some sensual stuff and to get up and dance,” Chambers said.
Chambers utilizes a three to eight piece band on stage to boost her sonic presence and share the stories embedded in her music.
“We actually all really like each other, so there’s a good rapport on stage,” she said.
Her Interior B.C. tour in promotion of Magnolia is a near exact replica of her summer tour last year, with the addition of Lorenzo’s Cafe in Ashton Creek, and she’s excited for the opportunity to perform for a new audience.
“This will be my first time in Enderby, and it’s always fun to play somewhere new,” Chambers said. “I’ve heard good things about it and I’m looking forward to meeting new people and sharing my music.”
And for Chambers, sharing the love of music is what it’s all about.
“I really love being able to impact someone else,” Chambers said. “I really sort of like giving that gift to someone — it’s a release as a form of healing.”
Chambers is bringing her sultry sounds to the Okanagan with stops at Lorenzo’s Cafe July 25 — cover is $10, doors at 6 p.m., music at 8 p.m. — and Wilbur’s Piano Bar in Kelowna July 23 at 7:30 p.m. — tickets are $15 in advance at www.wa-kelowna.com, or $20 at the door. Magnolia is available on Spotify and SoundCloud. For more information, visit www.emilychambers.ca.