These past few years have been golden for Emma – tours, awards, recording in Memphis, appearing on BBC Radio 2 with Cerys Mathews and in April she is getting ready to represent the UK in the European Blues Challenge in Poland.
‘And In January just gone I went to Memphis in America to represent the UK at the International Blues Challenge. That was great, of all the times I’ve visited Memphis this was the first opportunity I had to play on the iconic Beale Street.’
‘I also played a live session on Memphis Radio with DJ Ric Chetter. He’s championed me for years and always gets me in the studio when I’m over in the States’ said Emma.
‘On a more sombre note, my visit to Memphis coincided with a wake for the late Don Bryant. As you know Don and I duetted on his song What Kind of Love for my ‘Memphis Calling’ album. It was a very moving day and it was a privilege to be there.’
‘I was able to meet up with friends from the record – Scott Bomar and Hubbie Turner. A few of us went out later for some food and to raise a glass to Mr Bryant….Mr.B..’
Since we last spoke you have lost your good friend and fellow vocalist Terry Reid, how has this affected you?
‘It was so sad losing Terry, he really was one of those people you thought would go on forever. He shone so brightly in every way. I was lucky to have him as a friend and mentor. Even writing this hurts, I miss him so much.’
Emma added ‘We used to chat on Whatsapp (he lived in California) and he would tell me all the tales about his life in the 70s with Taj Mahal, Crosby Stills & Nash and David Lindley when they were all young crazy lads. He had some brilliant stories and an incredible memory for detail.’
‘There will be a tribute concert in 2027 which his lovely wife Annette has asked me to perform at. I’ll probably sing the song we wrote together See You in The Morning – if I can hold back the tears.’
You are putting together a new tour for 2026 are you playing any new venues?
‘Yes! It’s great to be expanding my gig repertoire! Of course, Katowice in Poland is new I’ve never played there before. I’m also on a festival in Germany – Dreyland Festival. Then in the UK the Swanage festival in Devon, I’ve played as a guest before but this time headlining’ said Emma.
‘Also, there are a couple of clubs such as The Angel in Bardsey and the Chantry Brewery in Rotherham. It’s fantastic that promoters – some of whom are musicians – are starting new clubs. Then in December I’m back at the 100 Club in London which is always a cool night – the room just throbs with energy.’
For further information on singles, albums and full list of tour dates contact the new official website >>> www.emmawilson.co
Listen to the new album ‘A Spoonful of Willie Dixon’ >>>
Alikivi March 2026
ALIKIVI UK : NORTH EAST MUSIC & CULTURE 