Mullum Music Festival | 15–18 Nov
Meet Sugar Mama (Emilia), Smoky Mama (Isobel), and Spicy Mama (Kaitylyn). Along with Saucy Mama (Abbey) they are the front line of Melbourne’s sassiest soul, hip-hop and RnB outfit: The Mamas. They are heading to Mullum Music Festival, and The Echo got to know a little more about what makes the Mamas tick.
My Mama told me…
Emilia (Sugar Mama): My Mama told me that you can do or be anything if you work hard enough. And to not whistle in the house or you’ll lose money, one of many old Russian wives’ tales she tells.
Isobel (Smoky Mama): ‘You should shave your legs,’ to which I replied, ‘Nah, I’m good. #pinktax’
Kaitlyn (Spicy Mama): To make the best out of any situation you’re in, to take every opportunity when it comes to education and to treat everyone with kindness and respect. Also to put my shoulders back.
Every night before I go to bed I…
Emilia (Sugar Mama): Have a big cup of chamomile tea and a li’l biscuit, and pat my giant gentle lassie dog Chester.
Isobel (Smoky Mama): Put on a Harry Potter book-tape and moisturise my face with the blood of my enemies.
Kaitlyn (Spicy Mama): After a Mamas gig I generally peel off my false lashes, smash some strawberry milk and some toast, have a 2-minute shower, and whack on some moisturiser before crashing into bed.
Okay, you’re coming to Mullum; you’d better know how to hug. What’s your secret to a great hug?
Emilia (Sugar Mama): Making sure it’s as motherly and nurturing as possible; laying their head on your breast and cradling them like a child gives the best results.
Isobel (Smoky Mama): Ample flesh and strong arms.
Kaitlyn (Spicy Mama): Gently humming or singing them a special song as you cradle them.
If I were in a rap battle I’d…
Emilia (Sugar Mama): Badly recite one or two lines that are poorly formed together from a rap I distantly know. But do it with pizzazz and confidence, so no-one would second-guess that I am pretty bad at rapping, and definitely the worst rapper out of the Mamas.
Isobel (Smoky Mama): Bring the house lights down, light a candle, pour myself a glass of whisky, and delve into some slow, passionate spoken word. And then probably say something to my opponent like, ‘I’m a lover, not a fighter’.
Kaitlyn (Spicy Mama): Invite the spirits of our great Lords Nikki Minaj, Cardi B and Princess Nokia to possess my body.
What I love about being one of The Mamas is…
Emilia (Sugar Mama): On the surface, bringing joy to people with a rowdy show and having an excuse for a bountiful costume wardrobe. If you go deeper, really the best thing is giving a voice to issues that are close to home. Having a platform where people will actually listen is a blessing.
Isobel (Smoky Mama): We’ve found a way for us to connect with our audience through music and comedy, and still deliver truth bombs, and I have also formed some of the strongest and most reliable working/social connections in my life. We all try our best to look out for one another and, creative industries being as volatile and emotionally draining as they are, this kind of support network is essential.
Kaitlyn (Spicy Mama): I love feeling empowered and I love feeling heard. We have so much fun both on stage and behind the scenes, these girls are my sisters and the band are all bloody incredible people inside and out. Not to mention our incredible fanbase and the connection I feel with the audience. Nothing feels better to me and words can’t quite describe it.
At Mullum Music Festival this year get ready for…
Emilia (Sugar Mama): Glitter, spice, and a healthy balance of naughty and nice.
Isobel (Smoky Mama): The entire bloody lineup! It’s gonna be so fun that I’m literally wetting myself with excitement.
Kaitlyn (Spicy Mama): Sequins, truth bombs and dancing.
The Mamas are at Mullum Music Festival next weekend! 15–18 November. Opening night sold out weeks ago so get your tickets now. mullummusicfestival.com