Rising pop artist Emilie Culshaw is making waves with her powerful debut single Trapdoor, set to release on July 13th under Big Condo Records. A deeply personal anthem about overcoming anxiety, Trapdoor has already gained international radio play across the UK, USA, Australia, and beyond — even before its official release. With heartfelt lyrics born from real experience, Emilie opens up about vulnerability, growth, and using music as a form of healing. Produced by Gulliver and brought to life in a cinematic music video directed by Chase Johnston-Lynch with costume design by Cathy Neale designs, the single marks a defining moment in Emilie’s journey. Fans can catch her live at the official Trapdoor launch party at Kazimier Stockroom, Liverpool, on the 13th July, tickets on skiddle — a night she promises will be “something truly special.”
1. You’ve been signed to Big Condo Records for a year now — how has that journey been for you so far?
It’s been so exciting! Since signing with the label, I’ve grown so much as an artist. I’ve had the honor of performing in Liverpool, Warrington, Manchester, and Leeds — such a dream! I’ve had the best mentors and learned so, so much in just my first year. I’m incredibly thankful for all their support.
2. Your debut single “Trapdoor” is dropping on July 13th. What’s the meaning behind the track?
“Trapdoor” is about fighting against anxiety and not letting it control your life or stop you from achieving your goals.
3. You’ve described “Trapdoor” as a pop anthem about breaking out of anxiety. Was it challenging to be so personal in your debut?
It really was! There were so many songs I could’ve chosen to record and release, but this one felt right for the moment. It’s very vulnerable — every lyric comes from a place of honesty and lived experience.
4. The song has already been played on radio across Australia, New Zealand, the USA, Hawaii, the UK, and Asia — how does it feel to see it resonating globally before the official release?
It’s absolutely surreal. Honestly, it doesn’t even feel real yet. It makes me so happy. I can’t wait for everyone to finally hear it, and I’m beyond thankful to all the radio stations that have supported “Trapdoor” so far — it means the absolute world to me!
5. What was it like working with producer Gulliver on this track?
Gulliver is an incredibly talented producer. He brought the lyrics and overall mood of the song to life with the sound he created. He completely understood the vibe I was going for, and the final result was exactly what I imagined. When I got the final draft back from him, I couldn’t wait to get into the studio to lay down the final vocals!
6. You’ve just finished filming the music video — can you give us a sneak peek of what fans can expect?
We had so much fun filming the music video for “Trapdoor.” It visually captures the feeling of being trapped by anxiety, and symbolises the light at the end of the tunnel in the form of an angel — a sign to keep going and stay strong through whatever darkness you’re facing. I’m so grateful to the entire team. The video was directed by Chase Johnston-Lynch, with scene design by Iconic CIC, costumes by Cathy Neale Designs, shot by Royzy Rothschild, edited by JJ Productions, and executively produced by Royzy Rothschild!
7. How has working with your manager Royzy Rothschild helped shape your direction as an artist?
We work on everything together. Royzy isn’t just my manager — he’s also my mentor. He’s taught me so much about the music industry and what it takes to succeed as an artist. I definitely wouldn’t be where I am in terms of confidence and career if it weren’t for his support and guidance. I’m incredibly grateful.
8. What do you hope listeners take away from “Trapdoor”?
I hope they feel understood and motivated. A lot of the time, we think we need to feel confident before going after our goals — but in reality, confidence often comes from doing things with anxiety. Feel the fear and do it anyway.
9. How do you personally cope with anxiety, and has music always been part of that healing process?
It’s been a long journey figuring out what works for me. Learning about the psychology behind anxiety has helped me understand it better. It can be hard to find logic when you’re in a state of panic. I use positive affirmations to try and block out the negative voice in my head, and I remind myself of the logical side of things. I’ll listen to music to calm myself or start writing lyrics — that’s always been a form of release for me.
10. What’s next for you after this release — any new music or live performances coming soon?
Definitely! I have so much music ready to release — I’ve been writing a lot lately. Creating “Trapdoor” has really reignited my inspiration. And yes, I’ve got a single launch party on release day — July 13th — at the Kazimier Stockroom in Liverpool. Tickets are available now via Skiddle. I’d absolutely love to see as many of you there as possible — it’s going to be such a special night.