2022 City Paper Music Awards winners announced

Female Singer-Songwriter of the Year is a well-deserved title for Charleston native Emily Curtis, who released three new singles this year, including “The Background,” a pop laden duet with Carson Hoy that showcases her strong vocal command. 

“I released my first EP almost five years ago in November 2017, so it’s kind of cool timing,” Curtis said. “I turn 30 in February — and in my head, I thought, ‘You’re supposed to be in a certain place. And if you’re not, you’re in trouble and your career is in trouble.’ And that’s not true.”

She says it’s about being present during the process of developing her career instead of always looking at what else could be accomplished. 

“I understand that and take that with me into the next chapter of my life. I’m calling it my golden age. I’ve got a song called “Golden Age” coming out next year. The time clock is  not against me, unless I pit it against me. I can choose not to play that game.”

In helping to start a community group for female musicians called Sisters in Song, Curtis is building the network of support she needed back when she was younger and stepping into the Charleston music scene. 

“This is home and it should be a building ground. That’s what I want to cultivate.” 

Curtis will perform at the Charleston Gaillard Center on Dec. 30 with acclaimed musicians Quiana Parler and Charlton Singleton of Ranky Tanky. —Chelsea Grinstead Click here to read article

Emily Curtis