“Ignite Me is a little bit different to my other songs, so it’s been really cool to experiment with a more hip-hop influenced sound. ” explains London based singer, songwriter, and producer Anna Straker who loves experimenting with new sounds and mixing genres and convinces with her fresh sound and swag style. The catchy track Ignite Me is about going out to a club and feeling like you don´t belong, a feeling that sounds very familiar when remembering our own club experiences. “Everything’s a bit gross and you’re really aware of what’s happening around you. I really enjoyed writing the poetry for the verses, turning the dismal and melancholy aspects of night clubbing into something beautiful.” We had a chat with Anna about the electric but sometimes lonely London, myths in music business and fashion design being an incredible vocation.
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You moved to London last year. What have you learned to love about this city?
I love how electric it is here. It takes a while getting used to but it’s constantly stimulating here which I NEED to survive.
And what things don´t you like over there?
Sometimes it can be lonely, it’s easy to get so lost in such a massive city. Oh and I can smell piss waaaay too often.
When you write your music, do you write from the pure heart or do you also simultaneously consider a bit what could be successful and is in line with current trends and has a fresh sound?
I would never write anything I wouldn’t listen to myself, but I love experimenting with new sounds and trying to mix genres. If it happens to be catchy that is just a bonus!
You do all the writing and producing yourself. What personal tip would you give to someone interested in making music her/himself?
Be patient. It takes time to learn and improve and perfect your craft so don’t rush!
Can you tell us a bit about your current track “Ignite Me”. How did it come about?
It was originally a song called ‘Sparks’. I took the last section of it, layer a hip hop beat under it and started talking on it! It was a really fun process. Was so nice to write the poetry in the lyrics too.
I noticed a cute kids voice in it :) Who is she?
That’s just my voice! Tuned up. :)
“I love experimenting with new sounds and trying to mix genres. If it happens to be catchy that is just a bonus!”
You started as a background artist and now you are with a solo career. How do you define success? And how important is success to you?
Being able to sustain myself to wake up every morning and make music. I’m a really driven person so success means a lot to me!
I read that your music is influenced by Jamie xx and Tame Impala. What besides music affects you?
Art, fashion, different cultures, reading. I just finished a really cool book called Ready Player One which is definitely having an influence on my album. I’m also into collecting photos I find inspiring, I find that really useful when writing music.
There are many myths and stories about the music business. Is there something that surprised you positively?
Everyone secretly likes K pop.
“I love expressing myself through my clothes. Fashion design is a really incredible vocation and I’m always being inspired by new trends.”
You have a fabulous style. How important is fashion for you?
Thank you! I love expressing myself through my clothes. Fashion design is a really incredible vocation and I’m always being inspired by new trends. For my ‘Serious’ video I was so honoured to wear London based brand APHID’s incredible garments. Check them out.
What are the most important things in life?
The people around you, experiencing new things, and ramen.
Where do you see yourself in around 10 years?
Partying all over the planet on my yacht with my closest friends!
Any last words?
Wubba lubba dub dub.
