Emile Mosseri’s Journey Back to San Francisco: A Reflection on Touring and Performance
A Day in the Life on Tour
Emile Mosseri’s return to the stage at The Chapel in San Francisco marks a significant moment in his touring journey. Just before his solo performance, he indulged in a modest breakfast consisting of a donut, some cereal, and half an ice cream sandwich received from a nearby picnicker at Dolores Park. This light meal was a stark reminder of the challenges faced on the road, as he and his band had been performing and traveling extensively over the past few nights across cities like Redding, Portland, and Seattle.
Preparation and Anticipation
As performance time approached, Mosseri, dressed in a cozy jacket adorned with embroidered irises, exhibited a mix of excitement and nervous energy. He frequently asked, “Is it 9:01 yet?” eager to avoid what he considered the awkwardness of starting a show at 8:59. When the clock struck nine, he burst through the smoke-filled entrance to a warm audience reception.
An Engaging Performance
During his set, Mosseri fostered a connection with the crowd, drawing them into his cinematic musical world that oscillated between soft melodies and playful narratives. One standout moment was his song “you & your boyfriend,” which humorously details a request for an ex and her new partner to move in with him. The audience’s laughter added an infectious energy to the performance, a direct contrast to the more subdued environment of the previous show in Seattle.
The Return to Performing
Though returning to touring feels both exhilarating and daunting for Mosseri, it is not entirely new territory for him. His previous years spent touring with his indie band, The Dig, have informed his current experiences. With a successful career transition to film scoring, highlighted by his acclaimed works like the score for “The Last Black Man in San Francisco” and the Oscar-nominated “Minari,” he now faces the unique challenge of balancing artistic pursuits with family life.
Family and New Inspirations
Fatherhood has brought new perspective to Mosseri’s life. He recalls how his 3-year-old daughter, already showing an early interest in performing artists like Chappell Roan and Mick Jagger, has become a source of inspiration. Tour preparation now intertwines with family time, and he strives to maintain a healthier lifestyle while traveling, choosing hydration solutions like Pedialyte over alcohol.
San Francisco: A Special Connection
Returning to San Francisco for Mosseri feels deeply significant. He has close ties to the city through connections, including collaborations with the director of “The Last Black Man in San Francisco,” Joe Talbot, and familial ties to his brother Adam Mosseri, head of Instagram. These personal relationships imbue his performances with a sense of belonging and purpose.
A Memorable Concert Experience
The concert also marked a special occasion for Mosseri’s nephew, who was attending his first concert. In light of this, Mosseri shared a humorous acknowledgment of the high bar set by mainstream acts like Taylor Swift before concluding the performance with Bob Dylan’s “Sign on the Window,” a touching tribute to domestic life.
Looking Ahead
As the tour wraps up, Mosseri reflects on the costs of life on the road, yet he cherishes the expansion of his world through experiences shared with fans and friends. After this final leg of performances in the U.S., he is scheduled to continue touring in Europe, further bridging the gap between his present and the nostalgia of past touring experiences.
