Hull-born country singer-songwriter Emma King will release her new album Pocketful of Sun on 22nd August, a collection inspired by her hometown roots, friendship, relationships, the music industry and, significantly, the joys and challenges of motherhood.
A musical love letter to the country sounds Emma was drawn to in her childhood growing up in the grounds of Hull’s former Humbrol factory, the album also reflects her journey from Northern England to Nashville and back again. After eight years living and performing in Tennessee – including regular appearances at the Bluebird Cafe, representing the UK at Nashville’s CMA International Festival, and recording at Sun Studios – Emma returned to Hull, where she continues to write, record and perform to critical acclaim.
The sunflower-strewn fields of the title track have a deeper meaning than just a hopeful nod to the British summer. Emma’s 4-year-old daughter Eloise, who was diagnosed autistic at age 2 and is entirely non-speaking, has played her part in the song’s inspiration, and the sunflower has become a symbol of empathy and inclusivity for those with hidden disabilities. The song sums up the infectious joy of childhood and celebrates the raucous energy of youth with its sing-along hook and irresistible guitar riffs, Americana licks and vocal power.
Conversely, Better Than It Was deals with the struggles and inequalities Emma has faced on behalf of Eloise and is “A song I wrote about the hardest year of my life, fighting for a safe education for my daughter.” Beginning with the point of view of a child, the song describes the world’s unfamiliarity and the feeling of sensory overload (“All the sounds wash over me…all the lights are blinding beams”). Having been through authority appeals and court tribunal processes, it has become Emma’s mission to fundraise and advocate for the autistic community and to be a voice for those who don’t yet have one. “Better Than It Was” is a song filled with the confidence in its subject that can only be born of experience, and it will carry its message long after its final chords fade out.
Other tracks on Pocketful of Sun give a glimpse into Emma’s years on the road in Nashville (18 Hours), her thoughts on the music industry (Sweetest Song), and a moving reflection of her hometown of Hull (Guess It Was Ours).
Emma’s career has included touring Europe, receiving 5-star album reviews, and airplay on BBC Radio 2 alongside live sessions.
Pocketful of Sun will be available digitally and direct-to-fan from 22nd August 2025, with a full retail release following on 10th October. Emma King and her band will perform a headline show at Wrecking Ball in Whitefriargate, Hull, on 11th October.
“A sound that sits mid-point between the gospel soul of Aretha Franklin and the dirty blues of Fleetwood Mac – really something special” The Blues Magazine
“A well-rounded and beautifully sung collection of rootsy pop songs” The Crack
“A stunning debut” RnR Magazine