By Colin 
Emilie Leslie returns on today with ‘Friends’, a track that firmly cements her status as one of Scotland’s most gifted emerging songwriters. Honest, poignant and beautifully constructed, the single is an anthem for anyone who has felt like the odd one out in a world full of couples. Her lyrics cut to the emotional core with clarity and warmth, offering comfort to anyone who has experienced that quiet ache of being left behind.
From the opening lines, Emilie’s songwriting takes centre stage. ‘Friends’ is a lyrical reflection on those moments where joy for others meets loneliness in yourself. Rather than descend into self-pity, she leans into compassion and humour, capturing those subtle emotions with remarkable control. Every word feels like it belongs exactly where it is, giving the song a conversational intimacy that stays with the listener long after it ends.
Musically, the track is rooted in an acoustic pop sound. Gentle guitar textures frame Emilie’s soft vocal, giving her storytelling the space it needs to breathe. The production is restrained but rich, allowing the emotion to shine through without distraction. It is a reminder that the most powerful songs often come from the simplest arrangements when the writing is strong enough to stand on its own.
The tone of ‘Friends’ is both vulnerable and assured. Emilie does not demand your attention. She earns it. She invites the listener into a quiet space, one filled with real emotion and lived experience. Whether you have been single in a crowd of couples or just needed to feel seen, this track offers something rare: a gentle kind of solidarity.
A lyricist with clarity and heart
Although ‘Friends’ is her latest release, Emilie has been steadily gaining recognition. Her performances at HMV stores across the UK, the SWG3 Poetry Club and the legendary King Tut’s show her growing presence. What sets her apart, however, is her gift for expressing complex emotions with simplicity. She makes the personal feel universal, and that is no small feat.
Drawing on her own experiences, Emilie continues to build a catalogue defined by lyrical honesty and melodic restraint. ‘Friends’ is a shining example of her growth and promise. It is a track that does not just sound good, but feels deeply necessary.
Review
Emilie Leslie’s ‘Friends’ is a songwriting gem. From the first line, her words feel handpicked and sincere, guiding the listener through a quiet emotional revelation. There is a maturity in how she balances self-reflection with warmth, never once resorting to cliché or melodrama.
The production is soft and tasteful, but the real strength lies in the lyricism. Emilie has the rare ability to capture the things people think but rarely say aloud. With ‘Friends’, she proves herself not just a promising voice, but a songwriter capable of striking emotional gold.
You can follow Emilie on Instagram.