Emjay Hink Spreads Kindness and Power at Salt Lake City Pride
June 8, 2025
Local Salt Lake City artist Emjay Hink lit up the stage at Pride with a performance that was equal parts heart and grit. Performing for the first time at SLC Pride, Emjay used the moment to reflect on the inspiration behind her 2024 album Wizard of Flaws, sharing that the record is centered around kindness—something instilled in her by her parents, who were proudly in the crowd cheering her on. Her voice carried across the festival with both emotional depth and joyful energy, pulling in passersby who quickly became fans. In one of the most tender moments of her set, she brought her friend Sleepy Moon Ray onstage to perform their dreamy, co-written track Hallucination, creating a moment of connection that perfectly fit the spirit of Pride.
Among the crowd were longtime fans and close friends of Emjay—Ramses and Veronica, both locals and Pride regulars who have supported Emjay's journey from the start. Ramses, attending his fifth Emjay show, shared the story of hearing Killer Bee in a parking lot before its 2023 release and immediately falling in love with its beat and message. Veronica, at her fourth show, named Fallen Angel as her favorite. Despite its bubbly sound, the song holds a deep message about leaving The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints—something she personally resonates with. The ability to make listeners feel seen, especially in a celebratory yet emotional space like Pride, is what sets Emjay’s music apart.
After the show, I had the chance to sit down with Emjay for a one-on-one conversation. When asked which song is her favorite to perform, she quickly answered Fallen Angel, because it’s the most fun to play with her band. Her advice for fans attending her shows? “Bring a cup of tea for the slow songs and dancing shoes for the fast ones.” Looking ahead, she teased a new album, more local performances, and even the possibility of a tour. For new artists just starting out, Emjay offered this gem: “Do it anyway. Make mistakes and don’t let your flow stop you.” As for pre-show rituals? Emjay never skips the classic band cheer—and she always snacks on a bag of Lay’s chips before hitting the stage. It's those little quirks, combined with raw talent and an open heart, that make Emjay Hink one to watch.
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