We sat down with Nashville singer-songwriter Emily Nenni, whose song "Never One To Stay" we featured in the Tennessee Tomato campaign, to talk about her journey to Nashville, summers in Tennessee, and - of course - tomatoes.
RS: Emily, thanks for taking the time! To start, could you share a bit about what inspired your song, "Never One To Stay," and the personal experiences or emotions that influenced it?
EN: This was the first song I wrote when I moved to Nashville. I had been listening to Angel Olsen’s first EPs and was inspired by her melodies. It’s a song about unrequited love, and how you may have the idea in your head of how a relationship should blossom. Sometimes two people just aren’t a good fit, and that’s just fine.
RS: Tennessee Tomato is a candle that evokes the essence of summer and being out in nature, so we'd love to hear about some of your favorite summer memories or activities. We hear that you enjoy gardening - how does that influence your creativity or provide you with peace?
EN: I had such a special childhood with my parents and older sisters, summertime always takes me back to San Jose and East Bay poolside family time. My mom has always given so much time and love to our garden back home, she still FaceTimes me to show me what’s in bloom and what she has just planted. I love having a garden, my partner is mainly the one that starts it. It’s hard to maintain it when we’re on the road as much as we are, though! Tomatoes and basil are a must in a garden of mine. Tennessee summers we still get lots of swimming in, just like when I was a kid. Full circle!
RS: Moving to Nashville is such an exciting, significant step for an artist. Can you tell us about your journey here? What challenges did you face, and what opportunities has Nashville offered you as an emerging artist?
EN: I moved to Nashville when I had just turned 21 and didn’t know a soul here. I had a lot to learn but I really never felt any judgment from other musicians, only encouragement. It has been such an opportunity to grow in every aspect, not just as a musician but as a person. I have faced some personal and professional challenges, but it’s all made me stronger and wiser. Learning more about myself and the folks I choose to surround myself with.
RS: How have your musical influences shaped your writing? And to bring it back to Tennessee Tomato - how do you think those themes of growth and change, whether from personal experience or like the life cycle of a garden, have influenced you as an artist?
EN: I am influenced by all types of music, but the themes of growth and patience and being satisfied with imperfections have always resonated with me. Much like a garden, people need time to grow, nothing is certain, but if you’re patient with yourself you may get something beautiful.
RS: Alright, last but not least: what are you up to this summer? Where can people find you and anything you’re excited about in your life, be it personal, music, business, etc?
EN: The band and I will be on the road all summer! Heading West in June, then to Europe in August. You can always visit my website, emilynenni.com/tour for dates.