Emergence Magazine & SwN
Our dear friends at Emergence Magazine have been great supporters of SWN and over the last few years have done some excellent creative reportage of our project. Followers of their online and physical magazine will know the level of quality of their material and we are honoured that they have given us such informed and attentive acknowledgement.
‘The Nightingale’s Song’ Film
In Spring 2023, Emergence Magazine spent time in the Sussex woods with SWN’s Sam Lee for their 40-minute mini-feature film ‘The Nightingale's Song’.
The film, by Emmy- and Peabody-nominated filmmakers Adam Loften and Emmanuel Vaughan-Lee, follows Sam as he joins in song with the endangered Nightingales of England. Through Sam's devotion to these elusive songbirds, the film explores how deepening our relationship with the living world can inspire care, stewardship, and love. As Nightingale habitats face threats from climate change and development, Sam's work opens a pathway to remembering and protecting their enchanting voices.
Interview feature
In June 2021, Emergence Magazine sat down with folk singer Sam Lee to discuss his journey into the realm of folk music and his profound connection with the nightingale. Throughout the interview, Sam shares how the oral tradition of folk songs has allowed him to experience the natural world through the eyes and stories of his ancestors. He recounts his transformative encounters with nightingales, and how their enchanting song has inspired him to create unique collaborations between musicians and these elusive birds. Sam also delves into the spiritual aspects of his work, describing the nightingale as his guide in reconnecting with the healing power of nature. The interview weaves together conversation, song, and the music of nightingales to create a powerful testament to the interconnectedness of all living beings.
Bushes and Briars
Produced by Emergence Mazagine, Bushes and Briars is the opening track from Sam Lee’s latest album, ‘songdreaming’ released in March 2024. Filmed in Sussex and London and directed by Adam Loften and Emmanuel Vaughan-Lee.
