Authenticity is what I strive for and what makes a hit. I love people, storytelling, and ordering words in a way that resonates with people.
You decide who will win $50,000, appear in Rolling Stone, and perform at the Global Citizen Festival!
Who will perform at the Global Citizen Festival, appear in Rolling Stone, and take home $50,000?
Who or what is your musical inspiration?
Any artist who makes me want to create after hearing them, or whose lyrics sit deep in my chest, inspires me. Some of my favorites are Simon & Garfunkel, Pinegrove, Phoebe Bridgers, Fleetwood Mac, John Mayer, Joni Mitchell, Gracie Abrams, Gigi Perez, Adrianne Lenker, mk.gee, Zach Bryan, and Noah Kahan. I’m especially drawn to unique voices and honest lyrics. I love almost every genre and pull inspiration from all kinds of music across different decades.
How would performing at the Global Citizen Festival impact your career?
As someone with stage fright, performing at the Global Citizen Festival would be a huge personal and professional milestone. I’ve always loved creating music in private, but I’ve been pushing myself to face my fear through small steps, like exposure therapy with friends. This opportunity would help me grow not just as a songwriter, but as a more confident artist. Performing at such a meaningful event would show me that I can take up space as an artist.
What would you do with $50,000?
If I were fortunate enough to win $50,000, I would start by giving back to my parents, who have always been my biggest supporters. I’d also love to donate to a cause through my church that helps the unhoused, as it’s something I am passionate about! And of course, I’d use some of it to have a few of my songs professionally produced, so I can share them with others :).
Links provided are for convenience. America’s Next Top Hitmaker cannot take responsibility for pages maintained by external providers. Please contact our support team to report any inappropriate, offensive, or broken content.
Help Emily Gerd become America's Next Top Hitmaker while supporting a great cause! Cast your daily vote below, or make even more of an impact when you vote by donation supporting Global Citizen in their mission to end extreme poverty now.
You decide who will appear in Rolling Stone, win $50,000, and perform at the Global Citizen Festival in NYC.
Colossal is a nationally registered professional fundraiser that inspires people to advocate for themselves and those in need. Through online competitions like America’s Next Top Hitmaker, Colossal offers participants the opportunity to make their mark while also making a big impact.