Emily Koko On The Making Of “Tired”
What was the creative process like for this particular song?
I started writing “Tired” at the end of 2021, just after the world began “returning somewhat to normal” post-COVID and as Russia started the war against Ukraine. Life was supposed to be picking up again, but I didn’t feel like myself at all. I was emotionally drained but couldn’t quite explain why. Lockdown had given me a chance to reset, but suddenly I felt completely empty.
I cried for no reason. And instead of letting it happen, I was hard on myself—I kept punishing myself for being exhausted. It wasn’t until I began writing that I started to understand: I had to stop fighting it. The lyrics poured out—“I’m tired, I’m just so tired”—and with them came the permission to feel.
The process was deeply introspective and healing. I started looking within and eventually went to therapy. So much of what I had buried came to the surface. I believe my body was trying to tell me: “We’re not okay, we’re tired.” Writing 'Tired' helped me honour that. It wasn’t a forced process; it was honest and necessary.
How did you work with the producer or engineers to bring your vision for "Tired" to life?
I met London-based producer Kevin Shoemaker at a SAFO Music Group (safomusicgroup.com) event—a brilliant community for artists at all stages of their careers. I’ve been part of their Artist Development Programme for three years now, and Kevin and I connected instantly—creatively and on a personal level.
I sent him the demo and we talked through the sonic direction: raw, honest, stripped-back, but with a modern touch. Together, we refined the lyrics to make sure every word hit home. The vocals were recorded in a single session—no overthinking, just letting it flow. Kevin really respected the emotional core of the song and gave it the subtlety and space it needed to breathe.
The final piece of the puzzle came from Berlin-based mastering engineer Leonard Ramershoven, who played a major part in finalising “Tired.” His touch gave the track that last layer of clarity and polish—while staying true to its emotional rawness.
How does "Tired" fit into your overall artistic vision?
“Tired” is a pure reflection of the artist I want to be: someone who creates emotional space for others, who says the quiet things out loud. I’m not chasing perfection in pop—I'm trying to write songs that hold your hand and remind you that what you’re feeling is valid.
The song is emotional, but understated. It shows that you can be tired, overwhelmed, even broken—and still keep going. It’s not about powering through like a machine, it’s about making space for your emotions and moving forward with self-compassion. My music lives in that balance—between vulnerability and resilience.
Can you share a bit about your musical background and the journey that led you to where you are today?
I’m originally from Stuttgart, Germany. I spent nearly six years in London and just recently moved back—which, funnily enough, has triggered a bit of a cultural shock, even though it’s home. I think that experience is already shaping new writing (laughing).
Music’s always been my outlet—what I like to call my "organic therapy." During the 2020 lockdown, I released my first songs: 'Together Alone' and 'More Than That', both recorded in a tiny storage room next to the cleaning supplies (seriously).
This January, I took the leap and left my full-time job as communications manager to focus on music full-time—scary, but something I knew I had to do. I’ve worked with amazing producers including platinum-selling producer and songwriter Laurence Hobbs and released songs like Breaking Point and Strangers. I’m still finding and shaping my sound, but I’m loving the journey. It’s messy, meaningful, and real.
How do you balance crafting relatable stories with maintaining your unique voice as a songwriter?
I always start with how I feel—my songs are based on real experiences. If it’s not honest, it doesn’t make it into the song. I’m a bit of an open book that way—if you listen closely, you’ll hear the story behind every lyric (aaah smile).
But once the story is done, I always think about the listener. Can they see themselves in this? Does the song make them feel something or help them process what they’re going through?
I try to keep the language simple but poetic—enough room for interpretation, but always rooted in truth. Honesty is my anchor. I don’t chase trends, I chase connections.
