In this interview spotlight, I chat with Aneessa about her musical journey, her latest project, challenges, and more.
Full Q&A along with links and music below.
Where are you from and how do You describe your style of music?
I am from Saint-Étienne in eastern central France, and my style of music as a blend of Smooth Jazz, Soul, Pop,
How did you get here? As in, what inspired or motivated you to take on this journey through music and the music biz?
Thank you for asking about my music journey! Music has always been my passion, ever since I was a little girl. I remember singing along to the radio and performing for my family and friends. As I got older, my love for music only grew stronger, and I knew that I wanted to pursue it as a career.
I started writing my own songs and performing at local venues, which helped me gain some recognition in the indie music scene. From there, I was able to connect with other musicians and producers who helped me record and release my music.
While it hasn’t always been easy, the love and support from my fans keep me going. I am so grateful for the opportunities I’ve had and the people I’ve met along the way. Music is truly my passion and my purpose, and I can’t imagine doing anything else.
How does your latest project compare/contrast with your previous release(s)? Were you setting out to accomplish anything specific, follow a specific theme, or explore different styles of creation?
Thank you for asking about my latest project! My new release is a departure from my previous work when I was living in France in a few ways. For one, I wanted to explore different styles of creation and push myself to try new things. I worked with a new producer Michael B. Sutton who is my husband now for 5 years and he is a Motown former producer a genius! who helped me experiment with different sounds and textures, which led to my signature sound
In terms of themes, my previous work in France focused on dance music and French R&B under my previous artist names Lade Aneessa and Anya Rose, while my latest project delves more into personal experiences and emotions through smooth jazz music. I wanted to use my platform to bring attention to important topics and spark conversation among my listeners.
Overall, my latest project is a reflection of my growth and evolution as an artist. I am constantly striving to push boundaries and create music that is both meaningful and impactful. I hope my fans enjoy this new direction and continue to support me on this journey.
Name the biggest challenge you faced as a creative during these unprecedented? How did you adapt? How have you kept the creative fires burning during all this?
As an indie music singer from France who moved to Los Angeles and married my producer, a former Motown producer, creating new music has been a wonderful adventure, but not without its challenges. One of the biggest challenges I faced as a creative during these unprecedented times was being away from my family back in France. Being away from loved ones is never easy, and the pandemic only made it harder to travel and stay connected.
To adapt, my husband and I made sure to stay in touch with our family through video calls and social media. We also took advantage of the time we had together to focus on our music and explore new sounds and styles.
Despite the challenges, we’ve managed to keep the creative fires burning by staying inspired and motivated. We’ve continued to write and record new music, even if it’s just in our home studio. We’ve also been collaborating with other artists remotely, which has been a fun and exciting way to stay connected and inspired.
What was the last song you listened to?
“The Look of Love,” by Wendy Dale Young, I am singing background on it 😊
which is being produced by my husband Michael B. Sutton under his label, www.thesoundofla.com. The single released in April.
Which do you prefer? Vinyl? 8-tracks? Cassettes? CDs? MP3s? Streaming platforms?
As an independent smooth jazz singer, I appreciate all forms of music and how each medium has its own unique qualities and advantages. However, if I had to choose, I must say that I have a special fondness for vinyl records. There’s just something magical about the warm, rich sound of vinyl that can’t be replicated by digital formats. Plus, the large album artwork and physical presence of vinyl records make for a more immersive and tactile listening experience. That being said, at the end of the day, what’s most important is that people are enjoying my music, regardless of the format.
Where is the best place to connect with you and follow your journey?
I really appreciate Your time. Anything else before we sign off?
Yes I am also the founder of www.pumpitupmagazine.com Entertainment, Lifestyle, and Humanitarian Awareness Magazine, and www.kpiuradio.com
Pump It Up Magazine is based in Los Angeles along with its official radio station KPIU RADIO, we are committed to empowering individuals in the entertainment industry by providing resources, advice, support, and a platform for showcasing their talents and connecting with like-minded individuals.