A Quick Chat with Emily Ulman

Can you tell us a bit about your inspiration for your single ‘Mountains Mountains Mountains’?
I love the Japanese proverb 'The reverse side has a reverse side.' Nothing is ever just one thing. Beneath every surface there is something else waiting to be seen; it reminds us to look deeper, to question first impressions.

'Mountains Mountains Mountains' is about the beauty and the rot, about pleasure and grief, and how even the most pristine places carry traces of what came before. We live in the layers. In what is visible, what is hidden, and the quiet charge in between.

This song came out of a moment that felt both intimate and expansive. A parked car. A sweeping view. A private undoing. It’s about renewal, about sexuality, about finding awe in the aftermath. There’s tension in it. Between what’s pristine and what’s overgrown. The beauty lives not in the separation, but in the merging of the two to become something new.

What are your influences and how do they affect your songwriting?
My influences range from classic storytellers and songwriters like Paul Kelly and Glenn Richards to the rawness of punk and the spirit of indie bands. I tend to write when I’m trying to make sense of something, so I’m inspired by a bit of everything. They affect my songwriting by reminding me I can be both poetic and a little messy. It’s all about capturing a feeling or a spirit, but not worrying too much about the rules. Half the time I’m not even aware I’m in the room.

What’s the creative process like for you?
My creative process comes in all forms, at the most unexpected times. Sometimes it’s prose or songwriting at 3am, interrupting a perfect dream, other times it’s a word I catch on a donut van at the market. I like to start with a feeling or a word that’s stuck in my head and let it lead me somewhere it wants to go. I’m generally a tourist or passenger in the moment, just needing to relax my eyes to make sense of it, like a magic eye picture where the Statue of Liberty slowly takes shape from the mush of dots.

If you could change something about the Australian music industry what would it be?
I’d increase the local content quotas on commercial radio, and more importantly, make sure they’re actually adhered to during daylight hours. There’s so much incredible music being made in this country, and it deserves to be heard. If Australian songs aren’t played on Australian airwaves, they disappear, and along with them, so do the fans. We lose stories, perspectives and sounds that reflect who we are and what makes our scene so special. It’s like hosting a dinner party and forgetting to feed your own family.

What do you think life would be like for you if you didn’t have music as an outlet?
Much quieter, and far more confusing. Music helps me make sense of things I can’t explain or untangle any other way. Without it, I’d have a lot more free time and a lot less clarity. Hard to imagine but I guess my notebooks would be more frenzied and I wouldn’t just be scrolling the doom, I’d be living in it.

Is there anyone you would like to collaborate with? Why?
There are so many brilliant local talents, but right now I’m obsessed with Gordi. She blends electronic and organic elements so masterfully, her melodies stick with you in the most welcome way, and her lyrics are effortlessly astute. I think with Gordi, I’d still write my pensive songs, but they’d be disguised as uptempo bangers.

What’s your advice to young people who want to make a career for themselves in the industry?
Surround yourself with people who inspire you, challenge you, and support your growth. Whether you're on stage or behind the scenes, the Australian music industry is full of the most brilliant minds and creative talents. Careers are built on relationships, and a strong community will help keep you motivated, supported, and always learning.

Who’s the most interesting person you’ve worked with/met?
It might sound like a cop-out, but there’s no one who stands out more than my time working with the incredible artists and arts workers involved in the Isol-Aid festival during lockdown (shudders). Despite feeling surreal now, the whole experience was like a masterclass in resilience, creativity, and generosity. Everyone involved brought something unique, vulnerable, playful, and communal. Forever in awe of everyone involved during that time. Special shouts to Sebi, Devon and Hannah.

Any plans for a tour on the cards?
Absolutely! I’m desp to get back on the road. I’ll be playing some intimate gigs soon to bring my new music to life (I’ve already announced June 2nd at Merri Creek Tavern), and I’m excited to share these stories and tunes with people in person. More shows coming down the line when the album drops. x