Emma Kade is a BC-born singer-songwriter who is making waves on the scene with her newest single, “Blue Collar Man”. We had the chance to sit down with Emma and talk about the new track, social media, and how her upbringing informs her music.
Check out the full interview below!
RELATED: We introduced you to “Blue Collar Man” when it first was released … Catch that coverage here …
Emma first teased “Blue Collar Man” on her social media, but it was just the chorus – which was inspired by the blue collar men in her own life, including her husband.
It resulted in a viral moment!
The overwhelmingly positive response to the song encouraged her to flesh it out into its current state. Have a listen to the song while you read our interview below.
Listen To “Blue Collar Man”
An Interview with Emma Kade
Front Porch: Introduce yourself for readers who might not already know you.
Emma Kade: Hi, my name is Emma Kade and I’m a country singer/songwriter based in the East Kootenays in British Columbia.
FP: Your newest single, “Blue Collar Man”, started its life as a chorus you posted on socials to overwhelmingly positive feedback. Where did you get your inspiration for the song?
EK: I live near a small town sawmill, that causes a lot of noise and commotion. While trying to rehearse for a show, I decided to lean into the noise instead of fight against it, and that’s when I wrote the chorus to “Blue Collar Man”.
I posted it online just to share the moment, kind of as a joke, and I was blown away by how many people connected with it.
FP: Did you know the song would be loved when you posted it, or were you not sure?
EK: Part of the mystery of social media is we never know what’s going to miss and what’s going to take off. The reaction to my video online told me I should finish the song, because evidently a lot of us know and resonate with blue collar workers.
FP: How do you think social media has changed the way artists interact with their audience?
EK: For me, social media has made things feel more personal. It’s a way for me to talk and connect with my audience, build real connections, and create a community rather than a fanbase.
FP: You’ve opened for Dean Brody and played with Brett Kissel. Does working with other Canadian country artists help with your songwriting process and finding inspiration?
EK: Being around other Canadian artists that have in many ways paved the way for country music in Canada is very inspiring.
I grew up listening to Dean Brody’s music, seen him in concert multiple times, and even waited in line for a meet and greet with him when I was 17. Watching how artists like Dean and Brett connect with people and tell their stories pushes me to try to find my own voice and do the same.
Those experiences have taught me to keep showing up and trusting my path.
Watch The Music Video for “Blue Collar Man”
FP: How does being a Métis artist in the Canadian country scene inform your music?
EK: I grew up surrounded by small-town values, family, community, and all of that shapes the way I see and experience things.
I am very conscious of representing where I come from and honouring the people and the community that helped raise me and shape me in to who I am today.
FP: You grew up in Creston, British Columbia. How did living in a small town affect your outlook on life? In what ways does Creston show up in your music?
EK: Growing up in Creston taught me the value of community, hard work, and made me appreciate a slower, more humble way of living.
You can’t really hide in a town like that…everyone knows you. This had both its advantages and disadvantages at times. Creston shows up in my music still through the stories I tell, my branding, and the songs I write.
The honesty and simplicity that comes with small town life has long been a part of my sound, and it’s something I’m proud to hold close.
FP: What’s next for Emma Kade?
EK: Right now, I’m focusing on writing and pushing myself creatively with my art. I have another single coming out in January, and I’m excited for another busy summer of touring.
Here on the Porch, we’re all looking forward to what Emma Kade does next. If you are too, you can follow her on her socials and keep your eyes on the Front Porch feed:
Instagram:
@Emma.Kade
Facebook:
@EmmaKadeMusic
TikTok:
@emmaekade
Spotify:
tinyurl.com/emmakadespotify
YouTube:
@EmmaKade
In country music, the Front Porch has long been a place of reflection. A place where you can look at the life you have inside that front door. A place where time almost seems to stand still, where you can get away. It’s also a place where you can go to observe the world as it passes by you. To think about your place out there beyond the driveway.
