Emilea May

Emilea May is a songwriter from Summerside, Prince Edward Island. She crafts music that acts as a catalyst for healing and growth through raw expression. Her voice is dreamlike and pure, and her lyrics are thoughtful, honest and introspective.

She grew up in a religious home, surrounded by music. Her parents are both musical and would often make up silly songs. At a very early age she knew she could sing and that singing made her feel good. Music was a constant in her childhood and her parents encouraged her to explore it. In her youth, she sang in church bands and developed confidence that is evident in her work today.

When she began writing songs, she found relief in the process. As well, she finds the creative pursuit medicinal, because it allows her to tune in to the feelings that need her attention. She is very aware of the profound and lasting effect music has on her life and the lives of others, and she takes care in nurturing that relationship.

Emilea weaves tales inspired by the mysteries of creation, the intricacies of human connection and the transformative journey of motherhood. She is deeply inspired by the stuff that hits close to home. She loves music that makes you feel something real and she’s not afraid of a song that evokes tears, sad or joyful. When she writes her own songs, she lets these elements guide her.

Her bio states that she draws inspiration from two songwriters, Lizzy McAlpine and Madison Cunningham. When asked if there was one song she wishes she’d written, she names a Cunningham song called “Sunshine Over the Counter.” She relates to the story, the emotion, the humour and the sass. Lately, perhaps as a way to balance, she has been leaning into the wonderful world of silly and playful songs. 

In 2023, Emilea May released the catchy and beautiful pop leaning track, “Logical.” It was such a confident first step into the music world. In 2024, through the support of Music PEI’s Golden Ticket program, she released her second single, “Good Mother.” Another song so full of beauty, vulnerability, and honesty. At this point, she’s two for two.

She is actively in the midst of recording her first full length album, tentatively titled Unwreck Me, with a goal to release it in July 2025. She indicates that Unwreck Me has an indie, pop, rock feel and delves deep into heartache, heaviness, and holding onto hope.

In her relatively short time as a performer, she has shared the stage with Basia Bulat, Tim Baker, Rose Cousins, Absolute Losers and The East Pointers, and recently she performed at the prestigious, Under the Spire concert series, Island Proud.

If you’re looking for a chance to see her live, you will find her on September 6 at Sportsman’s Club alongside Shane Pendergast and the band, Piner. While we eagerly await her first full length album, you can listen to her singles on your favourite streaming platform, or you can purchase them directly through her Bandcamp page: emileamay.bandcamp.com.