Every so often, a debut project arrives that feels less like an introduction and more like a statement of intent. Emily Otto’s “Clover” is exactly that—a radiant, genre-blurring EP that blends neo-soul, funk-pop, and modern jazz into something deeply human and unmistakably her own. With intricate arrangements, emotional storytelling, and a voice that glows with sincerity, “Clover” marks the emergence of a fresh and fearless new artist from Germany’s vibrant music scene.
Hailing from Leverkusen, Emily Otto has already made waves as the city’s first resident artist under the Young Stage Academy, a program nurturing professional pop musicians. Her rise has been swift but grounded. After winning the “Future Sounds” competition at the Leverkusener Jazztage in 2024, Emily’s talent was impossible to ignore. In November 2025, she’ll return to that same internationally renowned festival, performing alongside US stars Lawrence and Lizz Wright, with WDR capturing her performance for national broadcast. And at the heart of all this well-deserved momentum lies “Clover,” her debut EP—a collection that’s as personal as it is musically sophisticated.
Produced by Hannes Pries and mastered by Joe Joaquin (whose credits include Bukahara, AnnenMayKantereit, and Mighty Oaks), “Clover” finds balance between artistic depth and accessibility. Each song flows naturally, guided by groove and melody rather than rigid genre boundaries. The arrangements are polished yet organic, revealing the warmth of musicians creating together in one room. Recorded live with friends, the project captures that rare sense of authentic connection—a reminder of why live performance remains at the heart of great music.
At its core, “Clover” is about emotion and presence. Emily’s songwriting is introspective yet generous, allowing listeners to see reflections of their own stories in her lyrics. Her voice—soulful, smooth, and effortlessly expressive—anchors the project. It’s easy to hear why audiences have gravitated toward her performances, including her viral 2024 rendition of Lizzo’s “About Damn Time” with her long-running band Jazz Generation. Like Lizzo, Emily radiates positivity, confidence, and a genuine love for music that transcends genres.
Tracks across “Clover” reveal Emily’s wide musical vocabulary. There are grooves that nod to the funk-pop of Lawrence, harmonies that channel Erykah Badu’s neo-soul warmth, and tender moments reminiscent of Norah Jonesand Joni Mitchell. Yet, nothing feels imitative—Emily’s style is her own. Her motto, “I want to allow everything,”perfectly encapsulates her artistic openness. She treats genre not as a cage, but as a palette of color, mixing sounds with a painter’s sensitivity.
And while “Clover” dazzles musically, its true strength lies in its emotional accessibility. As Emily herself puts it, “The best melody is always the one you can sing together.” This philosophy breathes through every note, inviting listeners not just to hear, but to join in—to feel part of something shared.
With “Clover,” Emily Otto has crafted a debut that feels both timeless and fresh, sophisticated and soulful. It’s a project rooted in community, creativity, and courage—the sound of an artist learning not just how to express herself, but how to bring people together through sound.
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