Emi Canyn: Singer, Songwriter, And Performer
What happens when rock 'n' roll royalty meets raw talent? Emi Canyns story is a testament to the electrifying pull of music, ambition, and a life lived on the fringes of fame. From Tacoma to the Sunset Strip, her journey intertwined with the legendary Mtley Cre, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of those who knew her and the ears of those who heard her sing.
Emi Jo Schmidt, known professionally as Emi Canyn, was more than just Mick Marss ex-wife. She was a force of nature, a vocalist with a powerful voice and an undeniable stage presence. Though her time in the spotlight was fleeting, Canyn carved her own path through the male-dominated world of 80s rock, leaving an enduring legacy as a talented singer, songwriter, and performer.
[table id=1 /]Born in Tacoma, Washington, on December 5, 1954, to Floyd and Eleanor Schmidt, Emis early life remains largely shrouded in mystery. She graduated from Mount Tahoma High School in 1973, and the seeds of her musical aspirations were sown. Details about her formative years are scarce, but the vibrant tapestry of her later career suggests a fierce determination and a deep-seated love for music.
Canyns name echoed through the rock scene of the late '80s and early '90s. She fronted bands like She Roc and Alice N Thunderland, showcasing her dynamic vocal range and songwriting prowess. Her single hits, including "Mama's Boy" and "Wild Side," pulsed with the raw energy of the era, capturing the spirit of rebellion and the pursuit of dreams. Canyn also lent her talents as a background singer and dancer for Nasty Habit, further solidifying her presence in the music world.
It was during this period that Emis path crossed with Mtley Cre. As a backup vocalist for the band's iconic "Girls, Girls, Girls" tour, she shared the stage with rock legends, her voice adding another layer of depth to their already explosive performances. The tour was a spectacle of lights, sound, and raw energy, and Emi, with her blonde hair and captivating presence, became an integral part of the show. Her undeniable chemistry with lead guitarist Mick Mars ignited a passionate romance that would become a significant chapter in both their lives.
Mick Mars, known for his fiery guitar solos and enigmatic persona, fell hard for the talented singer. After a whirlwind romance, the two married in 1990. Their relationship became a fixture in the rock press, a testament to the allure and intensity of the rock 'n' roll lifestyle. However, their love story was not destined for a fairytale ending. After four years of marriage, the couple divorced in 1994, leaving fans and the media speculating about the reasons behind their split. Mars later revealed that financial strain played a role in the breakdown of their relationship, stating that both his first and second wives drained his bank accounts.
Following her divorce, Emi Canyn largely retreated from the public eye. She continued to pursue her music, but the details of her later career remain elusive. Tragically, on February 25, 2017, Emi passed away at her home in Lacey, Washington, at the age of 62. The cause of her death remains undisclosed, adding another layer of mystery to the life of this enigmatic artist. While her parents predeceased her, she is survived by her siblings, a testament to the family ties that remained even amidst the whirlwind of her rock 'n' roll career.
Emi Canyns story, though fragmented and incomplete, offers a glimpse into the complex world of a woman who dared to chase her dreams in the heart of the rock scene. She was more than just a footnote in Mtley Cres history; she was a talented artist in her own right, a singer, songwriter, and performer who burned brightly, albeit briefly, on the stage of life.
