“I have always been destined for a life in music”
text by Haider Rifaat
Budding music star Annalise Azadian lets her creativity make the noise in her new upbeat, R&B single Life of the Party. She, along with The Orchard and Grammy-winning music producer Swagg R’Celious, created a summer masterpiece. Discover her ambitions and creative drive in an exclusive interview with Haider Rifaat for Flanelle Magazine.
Annalise, describe yourself to our readers.
Hi! I am Annalise Azadian, a 24-year-old singer, soul writer and recording artist from New York. A multifaceted woman who likes her independence and to do things her own way, I am super hard working and a bit of a perfectionist. I take my music and the creative surrounding all of my projects very seriously. Some might describe me as a bit of a control freak, but it is important to me that my creative vision is understood by my fans and resonates with them. It is all about the fans. I love street culture, and having played basketball growing up and being a bit of a skater, it shows in my fashion sense. Creativity is my outlet and passion.
How would you describe your artistic vision in terms of making music?
My artistic vision in terms of music is painting the full picture. From the stories I tell to the lyrics, to the cover art, music video and other visual elements of the song, it is about the full visual canvas that makes you feel something special. I like my music to act as the soundtrack to a movie-moment of certain personal journeys and raw emotions that I have experienced in my life. I share that with my fans, and share with them the meaning of my music. Actually, my music is more than just music; it is an experience.
In a competitive music world, what gives you an edge?
My edge comes from my passion and drive. I started so young so just seeing how far I have come helps me continue the journey in this very competitive industry. I also believe that every voice is unique in its own way so I cannot really be compared to any other artist. I feel like the “edge” comes with working with your truth and committing to the gifts you have been given. What is destined for you will not pass you by, and I feel that I have always been destined for a life in music.
Has your family been supportive of your decision to pursue a career in the public eye?
Yes, my family has been very supportive of my decision to pursue music as my career. My mom raised me well, and although I may not be the perfect person, I have a high level of respect for my family and want to make them proud. It is not an easy career, but it is a responsibility I am able to take on, and knowing I have their love and support means the world to me.
Talk to us about your recent collaboration Life of the Party with Grammy-winning producer Swagg R’Celious.
My recent collaboration with Swagg was special and so incredible. I started Life of the Party about a year and a half ago with the producer WhatsGoodKev and we came up with the lyrics to the hook. It sat for some time as an unfinished reference until I started working with The Orchard, who really liked it and saw its potential. Swagg ended up flipping the beat into more of a party dance record, and we went in to rewrite the verses. He brought the song to another level. It was awesome to experience and have him be a pivotal part to the making of my music.
Can we anticipate a full-fledged album in the coming months?
Yes, definitely! Anticipate more singles and music videos coming soon. I have been working hard and experimenting in the studio, both working with Swagg and other producers. I am finding that the songs I love the most are those that are the most authentic to who I am as an artist. I am excited to release new music soon and share more of myself.
Many young, solo artists tend to lose their individual freedom when it comes to making music, particularly when record politics is involved. How big of an issue is this, in your view, and have you ever been a victim of it?
Music is very subjective. I have struggled with my sound at times due to politics in the music industry. There were too many opinions and I tried to fit a mold someone else may have seen fit for me. At the end of the day, I think it is important to stay grounded and accept that the things that once may have worked for you, may not anymore as you grow and evolve. That is okay.
I have tried many different genres and have always kept an open mind, but I know deep down in my heart what is genuine to me and what makes me feel the most alive. As an artist, you must love the product because you are the one selling it. I love the music I make and love the connection it brings with fans. At the end of the day, that is all that I care about.
Do you feel that apps like TikTok are damaging to the younger demographic considering the dangers of self-promotion on the internet?
The world has changed so much over the last few years with social platforms popping in and out of popularity and how people of all generations have started spending a lot of their time. I feel like TikTok and social media apps have become a powerful tool for the younger generation for exposure, sharing, education and self-promotion.
I think it is important to use it to celebrate creativity. These platforms allow new artists to have a space to share music, and build a fanbase of music lovers who fall in love with my music and my story, and I think that is really cool. There are a lot of positives that can come out of these apps.
To conclude, give our readers something to take away from your lived experiences.
Dream huge, work hard, stay focused and live free. Oh, and love yourself!
Photos by Sesar Martinez
