Emily Gambone is a 22-year-old singer-songwriter from Kent, OH. She has been playing guitar for 15 of those years. Armed with a catalog of thoughtful, moving original work and a fun repertoire of covers, Ms. Gambone will be playing the “Busk Until Dusk” music series this Friday, July 6 on the historic Kenmore Boulevard. The event starts at 6:30 PM. She graciously shared a few minutes of her time to introduce herself.

What was the first album you bought?

It’s hard to pinpoint the one particular album that I purchased first; but if I had to guess, I’d say it was either Pink’s “Funhouse” or a greatest hits album of The Beatles.

When did you learn to play the guitar?

I was seven when my parents put me in guitar classes. My mother wanted me to learn piano but I insisted on playing guitar instead. I took lessons from Aaron Shay at Woodsy’s Music for over 10 years.

How long did it take you to begin to feel proficient with the instrument?

Starting so young I did have a bit of a rough start. It wasn’t until around a year after I started that I felt confident enough to write my own songs and perform for friends and family. No one will ever feel 100% proficient, but around 12 or 13 years old was when I felt knowledgeable enough to start my own journey as a musician.

What is your favorite song to cover?

I have many cover songs that are fun to play, but if I had to narrow it down to just one it would probably be “Gold Dust Woman” by Fleetwood Mac.

When it comes to original work, where do you draw your inspiration?

Most of my inspiration draws from personal experiences, but something I love doing is writing about someone else’s story through their eyes. This way, no one will know if I’m talking about myself or someone else and it helps make the songs more relatable.

I see that you teach guitar. How has that influenced your playing?

Becoming a guitar teacher has been so beneficial to me, in many different ways. In regards to my playing, I feel it has given me that extra layer of confidence that pushes me out of my comfort zone. I’m also researching and learning new things every week while I’m teaching and it’s just been a truly amazing experience all around.

How did you come to be included on the July Busk Until Dusk event?

I was a part of this event last year and was lucky enough to be asked back. I’m also recording my EP right here downtown and have grown fond of the uprising music scene.

Do you feel that a strong music scene contributes to the overall health of a community?

The music scene has, is, and will always be a huge part of the community. Music has a way of bringing people together and also promotes a healthy community because of the increase in foot traffic and new visitors to the area. Nothing kills a town quicker than a dying music scene.

What do you have in store for music lovers on July 6th in Kenmore?

I don’t have anything particular in store, but I will be playing originals from my upcoming EP as well as a few fan favorite covers. Fingers crossed for good weather and friendly faces!

Click HERE to learn more about Emily.

Also playing at this edition of “Busk Until Dusk”: Johnny Tuttle, the Dennis Reynolds Quartet, Wesley Martin and the Jazz Heritage Orchestra are also scheduled to play this FREE EVENT. Food will be available for purchase from Helms Barbecue. Click HERE for more details.

All photographs provided by Emily Gambone

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