INTERVIEW: Etaoin releases Christmas cover

Based in London, Irish songstress Etaoin has been winning over fans and tastemakers with her poignant bedroom pop creations. Capped by her ethereal vocal delivery and accompanied by indie folk style arrangements, Etaoin weaves emotive tales that have struck a chord with audiences worldwide.

Her musical journey began in 2021 with the debut EP titled Bedroom Walls, a collection that swiftly amassed over 10 million streams. Garnering support from the likes of Wonderland and Amazon Music, Etaoin has taken her captivating sound to sold-out venues across the UK, Germany and Ireland, dazzling audiences with her soul-stirring performances.

Adding to her repertoire of stellar releases, Etaoin unveils her latest offering, a cover of Wizzard’s iconic holiday anthem, “I Wish It Could Be Christmas Everyday.” Known for its buoyant arrangement and infectious energy, the original is a festive classic. However, with Etaoin’s delicate touch, the song undergoes a transformation, evolving into a soulful and tender rendition.

Stripping away the exuberance of the original, Etaoin employs a gentle piano backing that becomes the canvas for her stunning vocal performance. Her blissful voice floats gracefully above the elegant atmosphere, breathing new life into the timeless melodies and lyrics. The cover retains the charm of the Christmas classic while introducing a fresh perspective through Etaoin’s unique musical lens.

Reflecting on her Christmas cover single, Etaoin shares her deep emotional connection to the holiday season. For her, Christmas represents a time of heightened joy and unity, where people embrace merriment and warmth.

In her words, “I love how everybody is that bit merrier, people smile more readily.” Etaoin’s cover becomes a vessel to capture this festive magic and share it with her listeners. Embracing the sentiment of the original song, Etaoin shares, “I’m so aware that the ones I hold so dearly now won’t always be here, and I’m equally aware that there are so many beautiful moments and people who are yet to come in my future.”

We caught up with Etaoin to find out more about her musical journey so far, her cover of “I Wish It Could Be Christmas Everyday” and what she’s got lined up for the future. Check out our interview with Etaoin below.

Hey Etaoin, how’s things?

Life is so good at the mo!! Been absolutely rinsing the London Christmas markets. Feel like in another life I was deffo a Christmas elf hahaha

What’s your earliest memory of making music?

My earliest memory of making music is when I was a kid I wrote a Christmas carol for the school play!! I was like 7/8 at the time.

Which artists do you draw most inspiration from today?

I draw a lot of inspiration from Tracy Chapman, Noah Kahan, Phoebe Bridgers, Donovan Woods

How else do you find inspiration for your music?

I feel like inspiration can come in so many forms and often it finds you, rather than you finding it. I feel very connected to nature so I find being around natural landscapes and surroundings really inspires me. Otherwise: people, stories, fleeting feelings all really inspire me.

What’s been your highlight of the year so far?

My highlight of the year so far would probably be releasing music via my own label via Universal Records whilst owning my own masters. Also touring Italy and playing my London headline!

What do you love about the London music scene?

I love how tight knit the London music scene is. I find a huge amount of my social life actually revolves around going to gigs. You get to know everyone who goes to the gigs and it really gives the feel of a community with a common goal.

What would you say is the perfect setting for listeners to enjoy your sound?

I would say the perfect setting to listen to my music would be walking down a country path in autumn when your boyfriend/girlfriend has just ruined your life hahahaha

How has your own style and sound evolved since you started out?

My own personal style has definitely developed, even down to the clothes I wear. I feel a lot more confident in my body and my clothing choices since I started releasing music. My own musical sound has definitely grown and has more surrounding it, but is still very true to its roots being based around a vocal and acoustic guitar

Who would be your dream artist to collaborate with?

Man there are so many I’d love to collaborate with!! I’m a big fan of Bon Iver, so probably him.

How did you find making your new cover of “I Wish It Could Be Christmas Everyday”?

Making my cover of ‘I Wish It Could Be Christmas Everyday’ was actually the most amazing process. My producer Jimmy suggested doing it and we got the whole thing done within an hour or so.

What inspired you to cover this song in particular?

‘I Wish It Could Be Christmas Everyday’ is actually my mums favourite Christmas song so that was a big reason why I feel so connected to the song and why I wanted to release this one in particular

What artist have you been listening to most recently?

The artist I’ve been listening most to recently is probably either Noah Kahan or Bonner Black

What’s the main thing you want people to get out of listening to your music?

The main thing I want people to get out of listening to my music is a feeling of being seen and being understood.

What’s been your favourite live performance so far?

My favourite live performance would probably be in Haldern in Germany! The audience there are so attentive and enthused

Who would be 3 artists to headline your dream festival?

Oh man!! My own headline festival I’d probably have Taylor Swift, Picture This and Noah Kahan.

Do you have any advice for a new artist wanting to follow your footsteps?

I’d say just to keep writing as much music as you can, put yourself out there on all social media platforms, and make sure the music you’re making feels honest to your heart. Also be nice!!! It goes a long way.

Finally, what do you have lined up for 2024?

2024 I’ve got a lot more music coming out, music videos, support tours and festivals!! Super excited!!

Listen to I Wish It Could Be Christmas Everyday below