Essence Martins Unveils Heartfelt 'Brussel Sprouts' Tribute to Family Bonds
Sisterhood, life's challenges, and the music that defines her.
In the vibrant realm of emerging artists, British-Nigerian singer Essence Martins stands out with her latest release, "Brussel Sprouts," a soulful and personal melody that delves into the intricacies of family relationships. Following her debut single "Pending Status," Essence continues to carve her niche in the music scene with a unique blend of indie, folk, pop, and soul influences.
"Brussel Sprouts" is more than just a song; it's a tender self-penned dedication to Essence's twin sister and a celebration of the profound connection she shares with her family. Essence reflects on the inspiration behind the track, saying, "My twin sister and I understand each other so well that we know exactly what to do when one of us is having a hard time. I also have two older sisters who encourage and influence me to be the best person I can be. For me, 'Brussel Sprouts' symbolizes a rite of passage."
The analogy draws from the universally relatable childhood experience of disliking Brussel sprouts for their bitter taste, yet being told to eat them for their nutritional value. Essence beautifully likens life's challenges to these little bumps, obstacles that everyone must overcome on their journey toward the light at the end of the tunnel.
Hailing from North West London, Essence Martins had a childhood steeped in sports, particularly tennis. Despite dedicating her early years to tennis training and competition, she found solace in music. At the age of 17, she turned to YouTube tutorials to teach herself the guitar and piano, marking the beginning of her musical exploration.
Influenced by a diverse range of artists, from Norah Jones and Lauryn Hill to Simon and Garfunkel, and later discovering contemporary acts like Paramore and Phoebe Bridgers, Essence began shaping her unique sound. Her journey led her to the United States, where she initially pursued studies in Sports Science and Biology on a tennis scholarship. However, the call of music proved irresistible, prompting Essence to follow her heart and dive headfirst into her true passion.
Since March of this year, Essence Martins has been making waves as a backing vocalist, guitarist, and keyboardist for the acclaimed artist Birdy. "Pending Status" and "Brussel Sprouts" are just a glimpse of what's to come from Essence, as she gears up for the release of her debut EP in early 2024. With a musical journey rooted in authenticity and a sound that resonates with emotional depth, Essence Martins is undoubtedly an artist to watch as she continues to captivate audiences with her soulful storytelling and heartfelt melodies.