With the release of her new album, .mp3, it is no coincidence that Argentine singer Emilia Mernes, known mononymously as just Emilia, is taking the industry by storm.
Creativity has always been at the core of the 27-year-old’s artistry and she’s managed to take it up a notch with her sophomore LP. Influenced by the golden 2000s decade musically and visually, Emilia is allowing those old enough to remember what it was like to be a millennial kid. And for those who are too young to feel nostalgic, she is letting you know what you missed out on.
Recognized as one of the leading female artists in Latin America right now, it is only a matter of time before Emilia is considered a trailblazer globally. Her blend of Latin pop and reggaeton has allowed her to stand tall alongside her contemporaries and not be compared. As she continues to forge her own path and take over the world, EUPHORIA. caught up with Emilia to get to know the powerhouse a little better.
Photo: pressYour album .mp3 has a strong Y2K aesthetic. What inspired you to go ahead with this style of visual?
I have always been inspired by the artists that ruled that era. Kylie Minogue, Beyonce, Britney Spears, Rihanna. I often wonder what it would’ve been like to be an artist in that era, and that’s the concept I brought up in this album.
You released your debut album last year. How do you think your second album differs from the first?
I think that this album shows a different part of me as an artist. I’ve evolved and found my identity. I think it differs from my first album because .mp3 is a project that I have worked on for so long, exploring new sounds, taking risks, and being so secure about myself. Speaking about my life experiences and opening up to my fans like never before.
What do you want listeners to take away from the new album?
I want to take people back to the 2000s. I want them to enjoy my music and dance, forget about their worries, and just have a good time, that is what .mp3 is about!
What has it been like working alongside some of your contemporaries, TINI and Nathy Peluso? Did you learn anything from them?
With Tini, I share a sisterhood. We as women have come together, supporting each other and rooting for each other and that’s a beautiful thing. On “La_Original.mp3” with TINI we wanted to show fans that when the cams turn off, we can have fun, party, and sing and we are still totally normal just like them.
I have admired Nathy for a long time, collaborating is a dream come true. It’s beautiful to see how we all, with each of our personalities and talents, have made such a big mark. It makes me very happy. We as women have created a beautiful movement in Argentina of supporting one another and celebrating one another. These women on my album mean so much to me! And I am so grateful to have them collaborate with me.
You are known for a killer collaboration. Who is on your wish list of people you work with next that you believe will really compliment your sound?
If I had to dream big I would say Rihanna or Beyonce. I also admire Rosalia so much. I think it would sound beautiful.
Photo: pressWhat are your personal favorites from .mp3 and why?
I honestly love the whole album, it’s so hard to choose but I would have to go with “La_Original.mp3” because it’s so real and fun. “No_se_ve.mp3” also was a very fun opportunity to get to work with Favela queen Ludmilla. And “Guerrero.mp3,” which made me open up about that scary battle my dad was going through, I had to write this to rid myself of those scary moments, and I feel people can relate to that.
Growing up, who would you listen to on your mp3 player that has heavily impacted your artistry?
I used to listen to Britney Spears, Rihanna, and Beyonce a lot. I believe they really impacted me as an artist.
What is the most rewarding thing about your job?
My favorite part is that I get to create music for my fans that they can connect and relate with.
What has it been like being recognized as one of the top 5 most streamed Latin artists worldwide this year? That’s certainly something to be proud of!
I have been working so hard this year, it’s been nonstop, and then I stop and I realize this, and it makes me so proud. It still feels like a dream.
Your music is definitely taking Latin America by storm. Do you have plans to take your music across North America and mainland Europe anytime soon?
We have new dates and surprises that I will be announcing soon after this album.
Photo: pressWhat’s been the biggest pinch-me moment of your career so far?
I think one of the most beautiful moments this year was being recognized by Billboard at the Women in Music Event as a Rising Star. Being surrounded by such powerful women and artists I used to listen to growing up such as Shakira was very surreal.
With the year coming to an end, how would you describe your 2023?
I feel like the year is not over yet and we are already thinking about 2024. 2023 has taught me a lot. It has definitely been a year of growth. I look back and I see so many things I accomplished this year and it makes me feel happy. But I will definitely continue pushing myself because I know I can do so much more!