If you’re a fan of indie pop, you might already know Hemlocke Springs, born Isimeme “Naomi” Udu. At 26, she’s gone from TikTok fame to becoming a genuine music industry favorite. With synth-driven tracks like “Girlfriend” and “Sever the Blight,” she captures the danceable energy of EDM while keeping the heartfelt, dreamy feel of authentic bedroom pop.
This fall has been packed for Udu, who spent the last few months opening for platinum-selling, arena-filling artists like Chappell Roan and Conan Gray on their tours. Before joining Roan for the last stop of her U.S. tour in Pasadena, Vogue spoke with the artist about everything from pre-show nerves to earning a STEM degree at Dartmouth and her hope for more people of color, Black girls, and women in indie pop.
Vogue: How does it feel to have your song “The Beginning of the End” out in the world?
Hemlocke Springs: I’m really glad it’s out. I was so tired of hearing that song. [Laughs.] I think that’s how it’ll be with every song—just relieved it’s released and done with. This one was definitely a change in direction and caused the most debate. It wasn’t even supposed to be on the album… or, I don’t know if I should say that, but it wasn’t; it was meant for a future project. I cried about it and then added it at the last minute. I’m really happy it’s out now.
Vogue: What has it been like opening for Chappell Roan?
Hemlocke Springs: It’s been wild. At the same time, I was also doing the Wishbone Pajama Show tour with Conan Gray. The week we opened for Chappell, we were in New York doing two Conan shows, then Chappell, Conan, Chappell, Conan—six days in a row. I was definitely stressed. Then we went to Florida, and I thought, okay, we’re here to put on a show and warm up the crowds. It ended up being really fun, but I was in such a zone that I’d tell people, “Don’t talk to me. I’m not here. I don’t know what’s happening.” [Laughs.] I even asked my tour manager right before going onstage, “Where are we again? What city is this?”
Vogue: What was your first impression of Chappell’s music?
Hemlocke Springs: My song “Girlfriend” was going viral, and Chappell reached out. We talked, and then I listened to her music. At first, I was confused because I thought, this is exactly what everyone would love—why is it taking so long for people to notice? Then, boom—everyone jumped on board, which was the least surprising thing ever. I thought, you all were a bit late, but it’s okay. [Laughs.] Sometimes it just takes time for people to catch on. Chappell is amazing—such a girl’s girl, very protective of me from our first call, and has such a strong presence. It made me want to adopt that mindset of helping others as much as I can. It was really kind of her.
Vogue: What are you most excited about for your upcoming shows with Chappell in LA?
Hemlocke Springs: Don’t get me wrong, I’m really looking forward to performing for the crowds. Chappell’s fans are especially passionate, and the atmosphere is so welcoming. It’s different from other concerts I’ve been to—it’s a very queer-friendly space. But honestly, I get really anxious beforehand, so I’m mostly looking forward to finishing the shows so I can reflect on them later. I kind of black out during performances and wonder, what just happened?
Vogue: Can you tell me a bit about touring with Conan Gray?
Hemlocke Springs: It felt like that Lady Gaga meme: “Bus, club, another club.” It was my first bus tour, and I felt honored to join Conan and his crew. I watched people having these emotional experiences, girls screaming and crying, and it was really touching. Everyone was so nice and wonderful. I really enjoyed bus life.I thought to myself, I need to earn more money, I need to be on a tour bus. Life on the bus was amazing, so I really can’t complain.
I know you have a master’s degree in health informatics from Dartmouth. Do you think that knowledge connects to your music in any way?
I definitely see some overlap. Just like I had to study for exams back then, I’ve had to learn about the music industry and what it involves. It’s a dream and a privilege to do this work and treat music as a business, but it is still a job. Early on, I didn’t really see it that way. Now I make sure I understand what I’m signing, my release strategy, and all the logistics behind music that I wasn’t aware of before. The same study habits I developed when I was younger are useful now, which is great.
What would you like to see more of in indie pop?
Oh my gosh, definitely more people of color, more Black girls, more women. I know it’s said often, but I feel it deeply. I entered the industry knowing it would be dominated by white men, but experiencing it is another thing.
What’s next after your shows with Chappell?
Sleep. [Laughs.] I hope I actually get to rest. I have a show coming up at my alma mater, plus another single release and some interviews, so the calendar is still filling up. There’s another Chappell show on Saturday, but on Sunday, I’m staying in bed and not moving.
This conversation has been edited and condensed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Of course Here is a list of helpful and clear FAQs about Hemlocke Springs as an opening act
General Beginner Questions
Q Who is Hemlocke Springs
A Hemlocke Springs is a musical artist who is opening the tour for They perform before the main act to warm up the crowd
Q What kind of music does Hemlocke Springs make
A They are generally known for an indiepop or alternative sound often featuring catchy melodies and thoughtful lyrics Think of it as a great introduction to a night of great music
Q Why should I make sure to see the opening act
A Because your favorite artist loves them Its a chance to discover a new artist you might love get the full concert experience you paid for and be part of the energy from the very beginning of the night
Q What time does Hemlocke Springs go on stage
A The start time is always listed on your ticket or the venues website Its crucial to arrive early as opening acts typically start shortly after the doors open
Practical Fan Experience Questions
Q Will Hemlocke Springs play a full set or just a few songs
A They will play a full opening set which is usually around 3045 minutes Its a complete performance not just a short teaser
Q Is it common for a headliner to pick their own opening act
A Yes very common Artists often choose opening acts they personally respect and admire Its a strong endorsement of their talent
Q Will Hemlocke Springs come out later to sing with
A Sometimes that happens but its never guaranteed Its a special surprise when it does so paying attention to the whole show is the best way not to miss it
Q Where can I listen to Hemlocke Springs before the concert
A You can find their music on all major streaming platforms like Spotify Apple Music and YouTube Listening beforehand will help you sing along and enjoy their set more
Advanced Deeper Dive Questions
Q How did Hemlocke Springs get chosen for this tour
A Its likely that your favorite artist or their management discovered Hemlocke Springs music was a fan