American R&B pop duo Emotional Oranges held their first show in Manila at Apotheka Manila, Makati City. Since debuting in 2018, the duo has gained popularity for tracks like “West Coast Love,” “Sundays,” “Just Like You,” “Bounce,” and “All That” featuring Channel Tres.
Emotional Oranges’ Vali and Azad spoke with Music Geek and other members of the press, sharing how music has been integral to their lives from the start.
Vali mentioned that her parents are classical musicians, saying music is part of her DNA. On the other hand, Azad shared that he grew up practicing piano for six years and violin for four years, while his father is a poet and writer.
American R&B pop duo Emotional Oranges CONTRIBUTED PHOTO BY JUDE NG
After coming together in Los Angeles, the duo considers their partnership a successful passion project.
“I do the things that I love in music, forgetting the politics and the industry while focusing on the art and producing innovative records that are personal to me and focus on that fan connection,” Azad said.
Both musicians see music as their lifestyle and safe space, with Vali describing it as “sunset on the beach with my best friend.” Meanwhile, Azad likened it to “cleaning your house on a Sunday with your girl.”
Discussing their music further, Emotional Oranges said they aim to evoke emotions in their audience and hope their listeners associate the color orange with their music for years to come.
“When you smell, feel, and see orange, you think of us. That’s the goal for the next 10, 20 years,” they said.
The duo named Victoria Monet, Kim Petras, Childish Gambino, and Anderson.Paak as artists they admire. They particularly draw inspiration from singers and storytellers who continue to refine their craft, adding, “Those people have reinvented themselves two or three times over.”
They also noted a shift in the industry toward chasing virality, rather than building connections with listeners. Emotional Oranges emphasized their commitment to connecting with fans through their songs and performances.
When asked about their creative process, Vali shared that each song’s production is unique.
“He’ll tell me to go in the booth, and he’ll play it for me for the first time while the mic is on. It’s my natural, innate reaction to the song,” she said.
The duo also emphasized the importance of having honest conversations about creative differences, which they believe helps them produce groundbreaking music and overcome challenges together.
Vali praised Azad for his passion and attention to detail in making music.
“A lot of people lack that; they’re unsure or indecisive, but he knows exactly what he likes,” she said.
Azad, in turn, commended Vali’s discipline and resilience in the industry.
“To come out on the other side with a smile and deep gratitude for the people she’s worked with — that’s a sign of a superstar. There’s no one else I’d want to work with on Emotional Oranges but her,” he said.
When asked to choose a song that best represents them, they picked their latest single, “Peak,” saying it resonates with their global fanbase while on tour. They also revealed an upcoming collaboration, “Call It Off” (featuring Jaehyun), which discusses persevering through obstacles — a reflection of their current journey as independent artists. Additionally, they produced “Flamin’ Hot Lemon” for K-pop idol Jaehyun.
Ultimately, Emotional Oranges shared what keeps them going: “Knowing where we want to go keeps us going.”
They also expressed their gratitude to fans in Manila for embracing their music.
“The warm welcome you’ve given us, the delicious food — I want to come back here, and we’re grateful you gave us the opportunity to play our music here tonight.”
Emotional Oranges performed later that evening with Canadian artist Chiiild.
“We wanted to give you a powerful, intimate, high-energy show. You’ll get all of that tonight. Our visuals are the best that exists, and our performance matches perfectly. Think R&B dance house party,” they said.
Fans can look forward to their album, set for release in 2025.
“It’s coming out next year, and you’ll experience a new live show with the album, a whole new setup we’ve never done before,” they shared.
Be the first to comment