_{By McKinsleigh Smith}

Hailing from South Dakota and currently transplanted to Utah, singer-songwriter EmJay Hink is bringing a cozier, more enchanting touch to the local music scene. EmJay leans into the cottagecore aesthetic, yet her music remains rooted in real-life experiences instead of overwhelming listeners with the saccharine fabricated happiness cottagecore is sometimes known for.

For example, her first single, “Killer Bee,” sounds like your standard whimsical song on the surface, but the lyrics reveal a poignant reflection on love and heartbreak. “Honestly, I got screwed over by catching feelings for an F-boy (I call them killer bees),” she said while discussing the writing of the song. “At first, he ‘swarmed me with affection’ and was sweet like honey, but he ended up buzzing off and ghosting me to go ‘pollinate’ with some other girl. It left a pretty big sting. “

The simultaneous playful spirit and serious subject matter come through excellently on the track’s album art, which is pretty self-explanatory knowing the backstory.

Following “Killer Bee”, EmJay released her first EP Metamorphosis, a winter-themed single, and just last week dropped “Cowardly Liar” in collaboration with the group Late For What. Each of these releases maintains her signature warm sonic palette and authentic down-to-earth lyrics. Although her discography isn’t the largest yet, EmJay has already built up a distinctive sound and image for herself.

EmJay has also had the opportunity to perform a few live shows in the area and has loved her experiences with the local live scene. One particular highlight was her performance at Velour’s open mic night. “[Playing at Velour] had been a dream of mine since I moved to Utah in 2011,” she said. “I love Velour! The atmosphere and down to earth crowd is exactly where and how I want to be playing music.”

With her genuine warmth and infectious melodies, EmJay Hink is undoubtedly someone to watch out for, as she continues weaving tales of whimsy and wonder through her music. She’s got more music on the way, so cozy up and get ready for what’s up ahead!

Be sure to follow EmJay Hink on Instagram! You can listen to her newest single, “Cowardly Liar,” below!