Emily Haber is best known as a songwriter, one who has the uncanny ability to describe emotions and experiences so vivid that the listener feels everything. She has collaborated with multi platinum artist Andy Grammer as well as queer icons Miki Ratsula and Joy Oladokun among others, lending her talents as a songwriter to numerous musical masterpieces. Now, she has shared her own debut autobiographical EP. Called Nostalgia, the five song release is a folky pop collection featuring storied songwriting, emotive vocals and layered acoustics.
We chat with Emily Haber all about her debut release, creatives she collaborates with, what's currently on her playlist and more. The result is a fun and emotional read, sure to bring out all the feels.
Hi Emily, congratulations on your EP Nostalgia. Can you tell our readers more about the themes of the EP and why you named the musical collection Nostalgia?
Thank you so much. Nostalgia is a collection of songs that explores memory, grief, and the people and moments that shape us… sometimes quietly, sometimes all at once. I named it Nostalgia for the title track and because that word captures the exact feeling I had while writing these songs: missing something that’s no longer here, or maybe something you never fully had. There’s beauty in remembering, even when it hurts. And in a way, writing this EP helped me make peace with parts of my past I hadn’t fully processed until now.
You are a prolific songwriter, writing music with the likes of Miki Ratsula, Andy Grammer, Brittany Broski, and more. How is the process and feeling different releasing your own music versus songwriting with other artists?
I just really love writing, whether it’s for myself or for someone else. There’s something magical about helping someone put words to what they’re feeling. I feel so lucky that I get to do that every day. Releasing my own music is a different experience only because it’s my name on the project, and that naturally makes it more personal.
Singing front and center was never something I imagined for myself, especially as someone with severe hearing loss in both ears. I’ve relied on hearing aids my whole life, and that’s shaped how I connect to music in really specific ways. But over time, I’ve found more confidence in my voice — literally and creatively. A lot of my favorite songs that I’ve brought into co-writes started alone on the floor of my apartment with my guitar. I usually bring them into the room and let them grow into something else. But with this project, I finally wrote a few songs that felt like they were mine to keep.
What is your favorite song on the EP and why?
“Next Time.” Grief is so complicated and ongoing, and this song helped me process some of that in a way words alone couldn’t. It’s about the hope of meeting my mom again in another life, in some quiet, beautiful place where time isn’t running out. Recording it made me feel close to her in a way I hadn’t in a long time. I just hope that anyone who’s missing someone hears it and feels a little less alone.
Describe Nostalgia in three words for our readers.
Emotional, hopeful, reflective.
Your song "Next Time" is influenced by the grief you felt with the passing of your mother. Not only have you gifted the world with this heartfelt song but also you plan on sharing a grief journal to help others with loss. Can you tell us more about this?
Losing my mom when I was 21 changed everything for me. She had been sick for three years, and within that time I experienced a lot of anticipatory grief (i.e., grieving someone while they’re still alive). It’s something that not enough people talk about, and I wanted to create something I wish I had during that time. I’m working on a digital grief journal that’s rooted in that experience and will be out following the EP release. It’s made for anyone navigating loss — especially the kind that starts before the goodbye.
Who are some of the creatives that helped you along the way in the process of making the EP and what did some of them contribute?
Daniel Dávila produced the EP and brought it to life in a way that still felt deeply personal. He honored the stories in the songs and helped shape a sound that feels both intimate and expansive. Dusty Moon mixed the project and brought so much clarity and emotion to the final versions. It was a small, intentional team, and I’m really grateful for that.
Do you have a message for your fans?
You’re not alone. Whatever you’re carrying, whatever you’ve been through, it matters. I hope these songs remind you of your strength, your resilience, and your story.
Who are some artists/bands that are currently on your playlist?
Madi Diaz, The Weepies, Julien Baker, and always Carole King.
Finally, what is next for Emily Haber?
More writing, more connection. I’m continuing to write for other artists and sync projects, which is a part of my work I truly love. I also want to keep creating space for honesty in my own music, but without rushing it. Outside of that, I’m focused on living a full life with the people I love and letting the next chapter unfold naturally. The songs always find their way when they’re ready.
Connect with Emily Haber: INSTAGRAM
