Interview: Emily Fern talks “Christmas Dream” and collaborating with the London Symphony Orchestra

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Rising singer-songwriter Emily Fern brings warmth and reflection to the festive season with her new single “Christmas Dream.” Recorded at the iconic Abbey Road Studios and featuring collaborations with Bez, Phil Hartnoll and the London Symphony Orchestra, the track captures the heart of what Christmas truly means: love, nostalgia and hope.

From her roots in the close-knit music scene of Guernsey to working alongside musical legends, Emily’s journey has been one of passion, authenticity and self-discovery. As she continues to carve her path in music, “Christmas Dream” marks a defining moment and the sound of an artist fully stepping into her vision.

We caught up with Emily to ask her some further questions.

1. Hi Emily, we love your new Christmas song ‘Christmas Dream” - how did you end up collaborating with Bez, Phil Hartnoll and The London Symphony Orchestra?

Thank you! It’s been such an incredible journey. From what started as a piano and vocals song, our ideas just spiralled and before we knew it everything was falling into place. Abbey Road was a dream location, and our dream team just started building from that. The London Symphony Orchestra loved the song and agreed to come on board. Then through a mutual connection, Bez came in and added his sparkle. Phil shares the same management as Bez and didn’t want to miss out on the fun, so he jumped in and finished the dream jigsaw with his electronic magic.

2. What is the meaning of the song?

Christmas Dream is about that deep, reflective feeling that always comes around at Christmas. It’s a time to look back at memories, people you miss, and people you love. It’s a time to be grateful and hold onto hope for what lies ahead. The song reflects everything that truly matters at Christmas.

3. Which classic Christmas songs define your Christmas every year?

Fairytale of New York is a family favourite in our house, but a personal favourite for me is River by Joni Mitchell. I have a beautiful memory of singing it to my family in the lounge at my grandmother’s house, everyone sat around with so much love.

4. You grew up in Guernsey, what is the music scene like there and when did you realise you want to follow your passion?

Whilst the island is small, the music scene is buzzing. We live in such a supportive community. I started singing in a local restaurant at age 15, and from there my confidence grew. I realised really quickly that singing wasn’t just something I loved, but something I wanted to share further afield.

5. What music did you grow up with and which artists influence your songwriting?

I grew up with such a wide range of musical genres. Music was a huge part of my childhood, and I dipped into it all — from country to musical theatre. All music has a message, and I’ve always loved the power it has. As I grew into myself as an artist, some favourites would be Adele for her emotional depth, RAYE for the beauty in her honesty, Elton John for his storytelling, Etta James for her soul and power, Birdy for her delicacy yet strength, and Amy Winehouse for being raw and timeless. The list really could go on.

6. If you could take one album to a desert island what would be?

Alive by Jessie J. I saw Jessie J on tour with this album, and it really inspired me. I have so many memories and emotions from that night. It’s an album full of honesty yet so much fun. The little girl who went to that concert shares the same dream as the 23-year-old sat writing this right now. It’s an album that makes me smile and gets me emotional. I wish I could tell little me from that night that we’re still building this dream and it will come true.

7. What's the biggest challenge you've had to overcome?

Probably learning to love myself. There have been so many times on my musical journey where I thought I was ready, but looking back I hadn’t truly found myself as an artist or as a person. Now I can hand on heart say I love where I’m at and what I’m building. They’re words I couldn’t have said honestly a while ago. I’ve stayed true to my vision, and now I’ve reached that vision and can build on it. Once you find yourself, things really spiral.

8. Have you got any gigs planned?

Yes, I’m performing at the amazingly talented Collette Cooper’s album launch at a jazz club in Chelsea this month. Her album is called Peace on Earth, which ironically linked us with Christmas Dream, as the chorus shares the same lyric as her album title.

9. If you could collaborate with any other artist who would it be and why?

Elton John. I get such an honest, warm feeling from him as an artist, and whenever I watch his interviews he just comes across as kind, humble, and a real music legend. Working with him would be a dream come true. I actually think he’d love Christmas Dream — it’s something I’ve thought about often along the making of it.

10. What’s next for you and what would you like to achieve in 2026?

I want to keep growing as an artist and continue releasing music that feels real and meaningful. I have so many songs yet to release and to resonate with the world. Recording at Abbey Road with the London Symphony Orchestra was an absolute dream come true and a huge moment for me, and if that’s the start, I cannot wait for what’s next.

Andrew Braithwaite
Author: Andrew Braithwaite
Andrew is the founder and chief editor of Music Talkers. He's also a keen music enthusiast and plays the guitar.

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