Multi-platinum Australian recording artist Emily Williams spent the latter half of 2023 touring the UK and starring as Rachel Marron in the award-winning international smash hit musical THE BODYGUARD. Emily returned to the role of Rachel Marron, having previously starred in the 2017 Australian production, which marked her theatrical debut.
Emily first came to fame back in 2005 on Network Ten’s ‘Australian Idol’ where the then forklift driving songstress stormed the final two thanks to her iconic renditions of the most vocally challenging songs of all time. Soon after the show Emily paired with fellow Idol alumni to form ‘Young Divas’. The smash hit group swiftly released a cover version of Donna Summer’s ‘This Time I Know It’s for Real’ to build attention ahead of their national tour. The song peaked at #2 on the ARIA Singles Chart and was certified platinum. Five months after the single’s release, Young Divas dropped ‘Happenin’ All Over Again’, which peaked at #9 and was certified gold. Their commercial success prompted the release of a self-titled debut album of classic disco and pop hits, establishing the Young Divas as an official group. The double platinum album also included one solo track, Emily’s rendition of the Whitney Houston classic ‘I Will Always Love You.’
The group’s second album ‘New Attitude’ debuted at #10 and was certified gold. After multiple releases, tours and award wins it was time for the girls to go their separate ways. This is when Emily’s solo career took centre stage.
Never defined by a single genre, when it came to solo music Emily drew inspiration from her soul, pop, dance and R&B influences to deliver something uniquely her. Refining her personal music style, Emily dropped ‘Uncovered’ in 2011 to rave reviews and even a ‘Favourite Australian Female Artist’ nomination. The success of album singles ‘Spellbound’, ‘You’re Mine’ and ‘Get It’ led to extensive touring, international features and major televised performances,
As a Fiji-Samoan woman, born and raised in New Zealand, Emily grew up surrounded by culture, tradition and Christian values. Heritage and self identity has always been hugely important to her and is something she hopes to instill in the next generation of performers. It was with this in mind that Emily initiated the ‘Inspire Tour’, a not-for-profit initiative that takes music, industry knowledge and inspiration to schools, churches and communities across Australia and the pacific region. She hopes that in some small way she can give back to the community, after all, it was in church performing gospel music, that she first had the opportunity to shine.
Musical success continued for Emily with singles, feature tracks and concept shows dropping constantly. These releases were brought together on ‘The Emily Williams Collection’ an album that celebrated Emily’s musical journey. Including fan favourites ‘The Way It Is (#7)’ ‘What’s Love’ (#10) and ‘Falling For You’ (#8). Multiple international collaborations followed with UK, New Zealand and US artists all releasing with the international diva.
Always eager to take on new challenges, Emily took on the world of acting in Universal Pictures film ‘Boar’ and she’s also judged Papua New Guinea’s hit show ‘Vocal Fusion’ and joined multiple charitable endeavours in the country.
After enduring a forced break from live performance due to COVID, Emily delivered new music. Self penned album ‘Thirty-Something’ showcased a more vulnerable Emily with her incredible vocal channeled through nineties infused musicality. The album was praised by critics and fans alike who applauded Emily’s diverse approach to musical artistry. Post release she joined the orchestral dance experience ‘Synthony’ arena tour as a headline act, a project that she is excited to continue in the future.
Aside from her work in the industry, Emily tirelessly lends her profile and voice to charitable organisation ‘Woman Of Colour’ as their global ambassador.
Despite her incredible commercial success and television projects, Emily is never more at home than when she’s on stage. As one of Australia’s most in-demand live performers, you never know what an Emily Williams show will bring. One thing’s for sure, Emily is a once in a generation talent that shows no sign of slowing!
