TN:173 Emma-Jean Thackray

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Jan 28, 2026

Emma-Jean Thackray

Emma-Jean Thackray, an English musician, producer and multi-instrumentalist, discusses making her Mercury-nominated album Weirdo. She explains layering herself into a full band, vocal recording and processing tricks, and using a distortion pedal as a central sound. They also cover arranging huge solo choirs, drum and bass signal chains, and turning minimal ideas into orchestral crescendos.

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ADVICE

Have A Clear Vision And Sculpt It

Start with a clear vision and sculpt details deliberately rather than randomly experimenting.
Spend time refining small elements (like snare EQ) to realise the idea you hear in your head.

ADVICE

Record Backing Vocals Before The Lead

Record backing vocals and arrangements early so the lead can be performed as the final, expressive layer.
Use quality microphones and dedicate time to backing parts before the lead.

INSIGHT

Create A Choir From One Voice

Layer many doubled and panned vocal takes to simulate a large choir with one singer.
Spatial placement and doubling create the sense of being in a real choir.

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