Emma Miller’s song “Downstairs” from her second EP, Artifacts, uses profoundly minimal lyrics to convey a fear of change. The song features the concept of levels as a metaphor for the possibilities that weigh on the speaker. Going downstairs represents loneliness, and in the last verse, the speaker expresses “I’m scared I’ll be forgotten”. Listeners can feel the vulnerability in these lyrics, connecting with the feeling of identity. In plain and raw words, the statement asks who am I to others? The idea of being hidden or separated is contrasted by the notion of climbing high, which represents risk. In this internal struggle over moving upwards or down, solace comes from the stationary nature of night. The lyrics portray this time as a comfort where “dreaming is easy”. Sometimes it feels better to just be, instead of measuring the possible consequences of what happens next. Through its gentle words and deeply personal voice, "Downstairs" lets listeners know that they are not alone in worrying about the future.
"Downstairs" uses a haunting softness in its vocals and instrumentals that truly bring out the depth of the lyrics. A slow and simple sustained piano chord progression repeats through the song, bringing a somber tone through its minor key. Emma's vocals are dark and velvety. Each word has texture in this patient recitation that makes the meaning atmospheric. The melody is low through the verse, and her voice pulled at my heartstrings with its resonating emotion. During the chorus, the vocals climb high, gaining an airy and hypnotic quality. This change between low and high melody further conveys the sentiment of the song. The bridge has sustained synth chords along with Emma's breathy and low vocals which provide a warmth to the sound.
Emma Miller is a singer and songwriter from Scotland whose alternative-folk music has reached listeners across the globe, who travel from far and wide to hear her perform. Her music is available for purchase in vinyl at her shows, offering a supreme listening experience to truly embrace her ethereal voice. Emma will be performing live shows in London and Glasgow this season, remaining accessible to fans all over the world with a TikTok Live concert as well. She has embraced the digital world in her art and made music NFTs to allow her work to hold a unique and individual quality. Learn more about her upcoming shows and explore her songs filled with deeply introspective lyrics by checking out the links below!
Written By Hanna Kowal
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