In classic horror movies, the “final girl” is the last one standing when the dust settles, and the bodies pile up. For Morgan Emslie, the 12-year-old musician performing as Amped2Howl, that familiar horror trope inspired her latest single, “Final Girl.” The concept is cool enough on its own, but what's even more impressive is the talent behind it.
Emslie's musical ability stretches well beyond her years. Learning to play guitar and sing is one thing, but writing a genuinely compelling rock song is another. From its confident structure and seamless transitions to its thoughtful lyrics and natural sense of melody, “Final Girl” showcases an artist with instincts that are difficult to teach.
Backed by a capable band and a supportive creative team, Emslie remains the undeniable centerpiece. This isn't simply a young musician showing off her skills at a school talent show. “Final Girl” is a fully realized rock track with shades of Paramore and The Pretty Reckless, balancing youthful ambition with the attitude and songwriting chops of a far more experienced performer.
What makes Emslie particularly exciting is what comes next. At just 12, she's already showing the kind of musical confidence and creative vision many artists spend years developing. As she grows, the conversation will inevitably shift from her age to the strength of her music. And judging by “Final Girl,” that transition may happen sooner than anyone expects.
Rock 'n' roll needs young artists willing to pick up guitars, write their own songs, and make some noise. Morgan Emslie is already doing all three.
She might be playing the last girl standing in a horror movie, but something tells us she's only getting started in rock 'n' roll.
Listen to “Final Girl” below:
