EMF, “Unbelievable,” and the Rollercoaster of Fame | James Atkin

EMF frontman James Atkin on going from Gloucestershire to global fame with “Unbelievable” — the rapid rise, the pressure that came with it, and how the industry has changed. Summary In this conversation between Ryan Roghaar and James Atkin, lead singer of EMF, they discuss the band's journey from their beginnings in Gloucestershire to global fame with their hit "Unbelievable." He reflects on their rapid rise, the challenges of fame, and the evolution of their sound. The discussion also covers the shifting music industry landscape, including the role of touring, merchandise, and innovative strategies for success. James and Ryan go on to explore how record labels have evolved, the impact of digital metrics on touring and music discovery, and the significance of live music. They also touch on the band's legacy, lessons learned, music's role in social change, and the industry's future with new releases and tours. EMF is hitting the road for 11 dates with Spacehog and Ecce Shnak! 14 June: The Ritz, San Jose CA 15 June: Great American Music Hall, San Francisco CA 17 June: Star Theater, Portland OR 18 June: Neptune, Seattle WA 20 June: Metro Music Hall, Salt Lake City UT 21 June: Oriental Theater, Denver CO 23 June: Crescent Ballroom, Phoenix AZ 24 June: Music Box, San Diego CA 26 June: The Observatory, Santa Ana CA 27 June: The Regent, Los Angeles CA 28 June: House of Blues, Las Vegas NV Takeaways EMF's journey began in Gloucestershire with five school friends.The song 'Unbelievable' became a global hit, reaching number one in the US.Sampling Andrew Dice Clay's work was a stroke of luck for EMF.The band's rise to fame was rapid, requiring extensive touring and promotion.The second album 'Stigma' marked a departure from their pop sound to a more indie rock style.Ralph Jezzard played a crucial role in producing EMF's music, bridging their early and modern sound.The music industry has shifted from record sales to touring and merchandise as primary income sources.Innovative strategies like bundling concert tickets with album sales are emerging.EMF now operates as an independent entity, managing their own music and marketing. The role of record labels has diminished significantly.Metrics from platforms like Spotify drive touring decisions.The live music experience is becoming less accessible to new fans.Musicians are increasingly using their platforms for social change.Financial literacy is crucial for artists managing their income.The music industry is more competitive and metrics-driven than ever.Creativity in business is essential for success in the music industry. Chapters 00:00 The Rise of EMF: From Gloucestershire to Global Fame 07:07 Sampling Success: The Story Behind 'Unbelievable' 14:01 Navigating Fame: The Impact of 'Unbelievable' on EMF's Career 20:50 Evolution of Sound: The Transition from 'Schubert Dip' to 'Stigma' 27:51 The Modern Music Landscape: Challenges and Opportunities for Artists 31:49 The Evolution of Record Labels 33:46 Metrics Over Music: The New Touring Landscape 35:58 The Live Music Experience: A Lost Art? 37:49 Keeping the Legacy Alive: The Business of Music 39:51 Navigating the Music Industry: Lessons Learned 42:17 The Future of Music: New Releases and Tours 45:38 Music and Social Change: A New Era 48:28 Reflections on a Music Career: Key Takeaways Learn more about the band: https://emf-theband.com Credits: Hosted by Michael Smith and Ryan Roghaar Produced by Ryan Roghaar Theme music: "Perfect Day" by OPM  The Carton: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  / the-carton-by   Feature with Zack Chmeis of Straight Method up now!  ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  / zack-chmeis     The Eggs Podcast Spotify playlist: bit.ly/eggstunes The Plugs: The Show: eggsthepodcast.com @eggshow on twitter and instagram On iTunes: itun.es/i6dX3pCOn Stitcher: bit.ly/eggs_on_stitcher Also available on Google Play Music! Mike "DJ Ontic": Shows and info:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠djontic.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ @djontic on twitter Ryan Roghaar: https://⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠rogha.ar