New Jersey’s music scene has always been rich with talent, but every so often, an artist comes along that makes you stop and pay attention. One of those artists is Emerson Woolf, a singer-songwriter who, in just a short time, has established herself as a force in the Garden State’s indie music world.
I recently had the chance to sit down with Emerson Woolf, of Emerson Woolf & The Wishbones, at Radio Garden State HQ for an episode of Greetings from the Garden State. We covered everything—from how she ended up in New Jersey to her rapid rise in the local scene, the challenges of going full-time with music, and what’s next for the band. If you’re not already following their journey, now is the time to start.
From Maine to the Heart of Jersey’s Music Scene
Emerson isn’t originally from New Jersey, but you’d never know it. After moving here about three and a half years ago, she quickly embedded herself in the Asbury Park scene, thanks in part to a chance meeting with the Cranston Dean Band while they were playing in Maine. That encounter set off a chain of events that led her to the Jersey Shore, where she found a vibrant music community that welcomed her with open arms.
“I just fell in love with all the sweet people here,” she told me. “There’s so much culture, so much to do, and such a great music scene. It just felt like the right place.”
Emerson had been writing music for years, but it wasn’t until she moved to New Jersey that she started to take it seriously as a career. She assembled The Wishbones, a band that’s evolved in the past year and a half but has always maintained the same mission—delivering powerful, emotionally driven songs with folk and Americana influences.
The Music That’s Making Waves
Since forming, Emerson Woolf & The Wishbones have been putting out music at a breakneck pace. In just over a year, they’ve released their debut EP (Not a Good Woman), a full-length album (Everything Must Go), and multiple singles, including their latest, A Corner Store Hymn. And they’re not slowing down—new music is already on the way in 2025.
Her songwriting stands out because of its honesty. Emerson doesn’t just write songs—she tells stories. Whether it’s heartbreak, personal struggles, or the chaos of everyday life, her lyrics cut deep.
“I love music that makes me really sad and cry,” she said with a laugh. “I just want to write music that punches you in the gut.”
And it’s working. Fans have been drawn to her authenticity, with some even reaching out to share how her music has impacted their lives—one listener even credited Not a Good Woman with inspiring her to leave a bad relationship.
A Community Unlike Any Other
One of the biggest takeaways from our conversation was just how much Emerson values the Asbury Park music community. If you talk to anyone involved in Jersey’s indie scene, they’ll tell you the same thing—this is a special place. It’s supportive, collaborative, and filled with artists who genuinely want to see each other succeed.
“It’s not gatekeep-y at all,” Emerson said. “Everybody wants the best for everyone. There’s nothing to gain from keeping smaller artists out. If somebody’s emerging, everyone’s like, ‘Cool, what is it? Let’s add it in.’”
That community has helped propel The Wishbones forward at a rapid pace. In just a year, they’ve gone from playing small venues to opening for Beth Hart at Count Basie Theater—a moment that Emerson called “wild” and “totally surreal.”
Going Full-Time: The Leap Into Music
Recently, Emerson made the biggest leap of her career—she quit her job to pursue music full-time. It’s a move that’s both exhilarating and terrifying, but she knew it was time.
“I was turning down too many opportunities because of work,” she admitted. “It was either take the risk or keep wondering what could have happened.”
Now, with a packed schedule of shows—including a stop at Jersey Fest 2025—and new music in the works, it seems like she made the right call.
What’s Next for Emerson Woolf & The Wishbones?
If 2024 was their breakout year, 2025 is shaping up to be even bigger. Emerson and the band are planning a summer tour, more festival appearances, and a steady stream of new releases to keep the momentum going. They’re also heading out on a short run to South Carolina, playing at the well-known Radio Room venue, as well as a few pop-up shows.
The goal? To keep growing, keep playing, and keep connecting with fans. And if you haven’t seen them live yet, do yourself a favor and change that ASAP.
“We just want to keep making music, keep playing, and see where this thing can go,” Emerson said.
How to Follow Emerson Woolf & The Wishbones
Instagram: @emersonwoolfmusic
TikTok: @emersonwoolfmusic
Listen on: Spotify | Apple Music | All Streaming Platforms
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If you love discovering rising artists before they blow up, now is the time to hop on the Emerson Woolf & The Wishbones bandwagon. They’re here, they’re making waves, and they’re bringing their storytelling, emotion, and raw energy to stages all across New Jersey and beyond.
And trust me—you don’t want to miss it.
Mike Ham is the voice behind the popular podcast, "Greetings From the Garden State". Traveling up and down New Jersey, Mike brings his listeners the stories of the people and places shaping the Garden State. Not only is he a Jersey diehard, he is also a respected member of the podcast community and has spoken at several podcasting conferences. As he continues to amplify the voices of New Jersey, Mike Ham remains a passionate advocate for the diverse narratives woven into the fabric of the Garden State.