Emperors is a genderfluid creative who has begun a successful transition into the art of self-expression and musical flare. A two piece electro-pop outfit, consisting of singer-songwriter Stephen “Cassandra” Eyre, and producer-songwriter Jankovsky.

The two were brought together by Martin “Youth” Glover, legendary Killing Joke bassist and producer for everyone from Pink Floyd to Bananarama, Dido to The Verve. A performing artist on the East London underground scene, Eyre first met Youth at a psychedelic art exhibition in a Whitechapel squat, and a second time whilst go-go dancing with a drag queen troupe at Glastonbury Festival; Jankovsky – an ambitious fledgling producer fresh out of Abbey Road institute met at a Shoreditch gig. With Eyre writing lyrics in his at-the-time abandoned hospital location in Chingford, and Jankovsky creating lush instrumental textures and melodies in his Greenwhich flat, the two would come together with their material for collaborative sessions. Eyre’s crooner vocal style and left-field interests, combine perfectly with Jankovsky’s slick, buoyant pop sensibilities. 

Expressing the “Age of Aquarius” spirit, Emperors delivers a unique worldview on their latest single “We Are The Emperors.” Drag king/queen Stephen/Cassandra is a fresh new artist in the electro art pop scene who is unafraid to push the boundaries of traditional binary ways of thinking while making catchy danceable music created in untraditional dada-esque fashion. There is nothing but poise in this track, alongside addictive percussion and themes of funk and pop. With vocals that are filled with honey and a style which symbolises fluidity and power, Emperors is the perfect example of sharing the importance of creative movement within breaking gender norms.

Having adopted a bohemian lifestyle from an early age, this up-and-coming artist has been able to capture and combine their one-of-a-kind experiences and broader philosophical thinking into musical and visual art worth admiring.

Drawing upon inspiration from a wide range of artists, from Elvis Presley to Lady Gaga, “We Are The Emperors” immediately captures the listener’s attention with thumping percussive beats alongside the funky guitar playing underneath. That with the smooth baritone vocals create an experimental soundscape quite different from and much needed in the modern popular music scene.

The music video released alongside the song for “We Are The Emperors” goes hand-in-hand with the song’s general messages about gender expression and the ongoing shifting political landscape. Featuring several genderfluid individuals, including Emperors’ drag queen and drag king personas, this music video truly captures the essence and capabilities of a much-needed revolutionary artist.

Though it may sound lofty, I would love to give a unifying feel to the contentious issues of our time… An EXCITING, sexy fun feeling making everyone wanna jump on

 

About the Author

Bryen Dunn is a freelance journalist with a focus on travel, lifestyle, entertainment and hospitality. He has an extensive portfolio of celebrity interviews with musicians, actors and other public personalities. He enjoys discovering delicious eats, tasting spirited treats, and being mesmerized by musical beats.