An Interview with Em and the Mother Superiors
Em and the MotherSuperiors is an Oklahoma City based band that brings a classic mix of psychedelic, roots, and energy. This long tenured band is a love story of genre blending that ignites influence of soul to blues to grunge. Emily Alexander answers some questions about the bands start and what the experience of playing in a live band means to them. This blog features their single “Cinco Pato” released April 2022 and a live version of “So You Think You’re the Devil” from their Chevy Music Showcase from 2015.
How long have you been writing music?
14 years
What got you started?
Falling in love with each other
Who are the members of the band and what do they play?
Emily Alexander-Vox
Scott Wade Sunderman-Guitar BGV
Nate Alexander-Bass Guitar
Jason Scott-Percussion
How can people find you?
Twitter (X) - Spotify - Facebook - Instagram - Threads - Bandcamp - YouTube
How long have you all played together?
Off and on for 14 years
Can you share the story behind the formation of your band or sound if solo?
Emily and Scott knew a songwriting connection was there at the beginning of their relationship. Both grew together. The band started as a three piece - Vox-Guitar-Drums but we knew we needed some low end so we brought in Emily’s older brother Nate.
What influences have played significant roles in shaping your sound?
60’s Psychedelia
60’s Doo Wop
90’s Grunge
Mid Period Bob Dylan
Beatles/Stones
Early 2000’s Indie Rock (The Unicorns-MGMT-Cake-Radiohead)
Mariah Carey/Whitney Houston
How does the music writing process work for your band?
With most songs Scott puts together the song then introduces it to the band so all members can create their own distinctive part through their own voice. Some songs are introduced to the band with lyrics and melody but many are not. Emily writes/improvises lyrics and melodies to Scott’s chord progressions while the band jams and irons out the creases harmonically.
Who writes what?
Scott is the main songwriter. Emily helps with most melodies and lyrics. All members contribute at times.
Who is your current favorite Oklahoma act right now?
Labrys
What do you like about making music and what has your experience been playing live?
Making music, songwriting, and performing are our favorite things to do in this life. Nothing beats the feeling of being on stage with our family (the band). Being able to feel the air from the speakers bouncing off of us, moving and dancing together, pushing each other to get better every time we are on stage and celebrating each others accomplishments, and, getting to create something from nothing then sharing it with people! There is nothing like it in world.
Did you grow up in Oklahoma?
Yes all members of the band grew up in Oklahoma City/Blanchard/Norman
What are some things you’ve experience in the music scene that stand out to you?
The kindness of all local musicians along with the diversity that is now being created.
Can you share your first impression of the Opolis or an experience you had here that you would like to share?
Opolis has always been the home away from home for Em & the MotherSuperiors. Opolis gave The MotherSuperiors their first gig! Our entire journey started there!
Is there anything you want people to know about supporting musicians?
The best way to support musicians these days is to simply share, comment, like, and subscribe to their music on any social media platform every chance they get. Every local musician I know would gladly give their music away free if it meant more people could experience their art. Money is nice but knowing people enjoy listening and care enough to spend their time helping spread the word is like gold!
Tickets are available at the door for our last Opolis Session in the series on July 6th at 8PM!