In a year bursting with breakout artists, Emilie Culshaw has emerged as one of the most honest and emotionally resonant voices in UK pop. Her debut single, “Trapdoor,” released via Big Condo Records, isn’t just a song, it’s a confession, a catharsis, and a quiet revolution. Written from a place of raw vulnerability, “Trapdoor” tackles anxiety, fear, and emotional isolation with poetic sensitivity. Emilie doesn’t just sing about pain, she opens the door and lets the listener step inside it. What sets Culshaw apart is the sense of intimacy in her delivery. There’s no pretense here. Every note feels lived-in, every word sounds like it was wrestled from the heart. It’s the kind of song that finds you in the dark and gently walks you back toward the light. “Trapdoor” has already seen global radio play, topping Brazil’s radio charts and reaching ears from New York to New Zealand. But perhaps its biggest success lies in the deeply personal way it connects. For many listeners, it’s not just a debut; it’s a mirror.
- Your debut single “Trapdoor” has become a breakout success — reaching #1 on one of Brazil’s radio stations and earning global radio play. When you first wrote the song, did you ever imagine it would have such international impact?
Thank you. Still overwhelmed with the response, I’m so happy. Definitely was unexpected. It’s a very vulnerable, personal song about real life experiences, so I was actually really nervous about putting it out.
- “Trapdoor” is rooted in personal experiences with anxiety and emotional vulnerability. What inspired you to write so openly about your mental health, and how has sharing your story helped you connect with listeners on a deeper level?
I want those who relate to the lyrics to know they are not alone and to keep going no matter what, don’t let fear stop you. I feel on a personal level it’s helped people get to know me, as “Trapdoor” was written from real experiences and real vulnerability.
- The new acoustic version of “Trapdoor” featuring Josh B is haunting and intimate. What led you to revisit the song in this stripped-back form, and how did the collaboration with Josh influence the emotional tone of the track?
I wanted to do something special with the song. We thought it sounded beautiful stripped back with just vocal and guitar, so that’s how the acoustic version came about. Massive thanks to Josh B who absolutely smashed it on guitar. He was perfect for it.
- You’ve just released a Live Lounge-style acoustic session — raw, unfiltered, and deeply moving. How did it feel performing such a personal song in that live setting, and what message did you hope to send with that version?
It felt freeing, actually, as the song is about letting go of the past and letting go of anxiety, and the stripped back version made it feel more emotional and soulful. I think I will always love performing “Trapdoor” because of what it means to me.
- From performing in a boxing ring at VIP Boxing to gracing the stage at the Merseyside Woman of the Year Awards, your live shows have been bold and unconventional. What drives your performance style, and what moments have stood out the most so far?
I have watched a lot of live performances of artists I love over the years, which has definitely influenced how I perform. Someone who has helped me so much with my stage presence is my manager and mentor Royzy Rothschild, I’m so grateful for his support and guidance. My live shows are very important to me. I want them to be the best they can be. So many moments I could talk about that are so special, but I’ll just name a few.
Very grateful to have performed at the VIP Boxing event sponsored by Boom Pro at the Grand Central Hall, unreal experience performing in the ring. Merseyside Woman of the Year Awards was also a standout moment, held at the Grand Plaza in Liverpool. It was an honour to sing “Trapdoor” in front of all those powerful, inspiring women. Big shoutout to Ellie for the opportunity.
Of course, my debut single launch party for “Trapdoor” in the Kazimier Stockroom, a night I will never forget. Seeing so many faces turn up to show support meant the absolute world. Dream come true. Big love to Big Condo Records for putting it together.
- Your journey with Big Condo Records began as an intern, and now you’re one of their breakout stars. How did that evolution shape your work ethic and creative identity, and what has Royzy Rothschild’s mentorship meant to you personally and professionally?
Ah, thank you! Yes, I started working with Big Condo Records as an intern. I’ve learned so much in that time. It has helped me shape my work ethic and creative identity as an artist. Big Condo truly is a safe place for artists, very grateful to them for everything they have done for me. Royzy Rothschild is the one who helped me get my career off the ground. Believed in me from day one, and I am insanely grateful for his support and guidance on this journey.
- Winning the UK Influencer Award this year solidified your presence beyond music. How do you balance being a musician, a public figure, and now an award-winning influencer — and what kind of impact do you hope to have across those platforms?
It’s an absolute dream come true. It means so much to share my own original music with the world and see it connect with so many people. I’m so grateful I get to do what I love. Big shoutout to my amazing supportive community, love you all so much.
With my platform, I hope to spread positivity, love, and knowledge that can help people! I think it’s important to use your platform for good.
- The “Trapdoor” music video is filled with symbolism, from the feeling of being trapped to glimpses of hope and light. Can you walk us through your vision for the video and what each element represents in your healing journey?
My vision for the music video was to capture the feeling of dissociation you can feel when experiencing high levels of anxiety. It’s something I have experienced but was unsure how to communicate to other people. The song is about breaking through anxiety and letting go of the past.
Very grateful to the incredible team who brought this vision to life — directed by Chase Johnston-Lynch, with scene design by Iconic CIC, costumes by Cathy Neale Designs, shot by Royzy Rothschild, edited by JJ Productions, and executively produced by Royzy Rothschild!
- You’ve performed on tour and sold out your debut single launch at The Kazimier. What have those experiences taught you about owning the stage and building a genuine connection with your audience?
Loving every second of the tours and made some great memories. So grateful for the wonderful opportunity.
Nothing beats a live show. On stage is where I feel the most free to be myself. It’s a more real, authentic self I get to share with my audience, plus meeting them too, which I absolutely love doing.
- You’re known for blending pop with emotional storytelling and cinematic visuals. Who are some of your biggest musical and visual influences, and how do they shape the way you approach your sound and style?
I have so many influences, but I’ll just name a few, Lana Del Rey, Madison Beer, Yebba, Lady Gaga, Ariana Grande, Beyoncé… the list goes on. I love Lana Del Rey for her dreamy, dark style and angelic vocals. I love a cinematic feel to a song.
- You’ve hinted at a darker, post-punk/80s-inspired direction in your upcoming music. What can fans expect from your next release in terms of sound, story, and evolution?
Yes, I love dark/pop, dream/pop when it comes to writing. I feel like the cinematic feel really brings my lyrics to life and expresses them perfectly. Expect something dark but empowering, confident but emotional.
- Fashion seems to be a major element of your creative persona, from costume design in your videos to live performance looks. How do you use style as a form of self-expression and narrative?
I love fashion so much. Expression through style has always been a major element for me. Big shoutout to Iconic CIC and Cathy Neale Designs for styling the “Trapdoor” music video, the costumes really brought it all to life. Some of my biggest style icons are Lady Gaga, Beyoncé, Madison Beer, and Olivia Rodrigo.
- With streaming numbers rising, magazine covers, sold-out shows, and a growing fanbase, how do you stay grounded amid all the success? What keeps you connected to your roots and your purpose as an artist?
It’s been such an amazing journey so far, and I’m so insanely grateful for all the support. Completely overwhelmed with the response to my debut single “Trapdoor.” My purpose as an artist is only getting stronger as I develop. I love creating and performing so much. Nothing beats it.
- Looking ahead to the next 12 months, what’s next for Emilie Culshaw? Are there plans for an EP or debut album, more international stages, or unexpected collaborations we should keep an eye on?
What’s next? Well, I am currently working on my debut EP! Definitely keep your eye on upcoming collaborations too, got some very exciting ones in the pipeline. Definitely more international stages. The team and I have been working so hard behind the scenes, cannot wait to share.
Want to say big love to everyone at Big Condo Records. This next year is about to be wild, would love for you to follow along on the journey. All my socials are @emilieculshaw and my debut single “Trapdoor” is out now, available to purchase on iTunes. Music video is on YouTube. All streaming platforms. Plus, show tickets are on Skiddle! Massive thank you for this amazing interview.
Interview by : Eric Hones
Rating: ★★★★★ (5/5)
Essential listening for fans of emotional pop, cinematic storytelling, and fearless vulnerability.
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