Who We Are

EM & The Gems are a Los Angeles based fusion band led by critically acclaimed singer-songwriter and classical pianist - EM, also known as Em The Master. The band currently hold a residency at historic Harvelles Blues Club in Santa Monica - this is the best opportunity to see EM do her thing and see the unique magic that EM & The Gems create.

EM’s career began at the mere age of four when she began classical piano training; she went on to be a child prodigy, performing internationally as a child and earning two degrees in classical piano by the time she was 15. A performer at heart, EM was also trained in singing and acting from a young age. Originally from London, UK, EM moved to New York and then Los Angeles, where she quickly met GRAMMY-nominated producer Bruce Witkin (Alice Cooper, Marilyn Manson), and together, they released her solo debut EP, “What I Want To Say To You”, an album born of EM’s experience of rape and dedicated to sexual assault survivors.

In March 2020, EM released her 12-track concept album, “REBORN”, recorded with The Gems. The album features bass legend Melvin Brannon Jr. (Booker T. Jones) and drummer Tyler Hammond (Limp Bizkit, Fred Durst), who were both influential in creating the sound of REBORN. The Gems have changed over time and the current line up includes Melvin Brannon Jr. (bass/vocals), Taylor LeBowe (guitar), Marc Dolgin (drums) and Will Fowler (keys/vocals).

EM & The Gems’ unique musical style demonstrates her varied musical and theatrical background, featuring elements of jazz, classical, rock and pop combined with her extraordinary stage presence to create a moving and unforgettable experience every time.

“REBORN” explores EM’s journey of regaining her strength, sexuality and power, and is available everywhere NOW! Having releasead their first album, “REBORN” with GRAMMY-nominated Bruce Witkin, EM & The Gems are consistently working on new material, which is often featured in their live shows, and are making a bold statement on the LA music scene.

EM

Lead Vocals, Piano, Songwriter, Band Leader

EM is a British critically acclaimed classical pianist and singer songwriter. Her debut EP, What I Want To Say To You, born from her personal experience of rape and dedicated to sexual assault survivors received wide critical acclaim. Her new album REBORN is available everywhere now!

“A rising music star” – Arianna Huffington’s Thrive Global

“EM joins artists such as Lady Gaga and Tori Amos in giving a voice to those who need it most.” – Hard Rock Cafe

Melvin Brannon Jr Forté

Bass, Additional Vocals

Originally from Chicago, Melvin Brannon Jr Forté is a bass legend. Lead bass player for Booker T. Jones for the past 8 years, Forté's experience dates back to 1984 with the Dan Reed Network. He has toured with and supported The Rolling Stones, David Bowie, Prince, Eric Clapton amongst many others.

Tyler Hammond

Drums

Born and raised in Simi Valley, CA, Tyler Hammond is a phenomenal drummer who has his own residency in the centre of Hollywood at Black Rabbit Rose, with The Tyler Hammond Jazz Experience. Noticed at a young age by Fred Durst, Tyler frequently works with Fred, Limp Bizkit and many other musicians.

Shay Capolupo

Guitar

Shay Capolupo is a jazz guitarist and composer, born in Simi Valley, CA.

Will Fowler

Keyboards, Additional Vocals

Will Fowler was born in London, UK. A classically trained pianist and singer from the age of 4, he enjoys performing a variety of different musical genres both across the US and UK; with solo shows and as a session musician. After studying at the Royal Academy of Music and other world leading music institutions, Will has gained many TV appearances and has been performing at major venues across the globe including; London’s Royal Albert Hall, LA’s Walt Disney Concert Hall and the Viper Room.