The music of Munich based singer-songwriter ANNIKA is mostly about self(love), toxic relationships, freedom and growth. All facets that life has to offer are an integral part of her artistic involvement; moments of failure, moments of joy. From our own experience we know that it is not always easy to move out of your comfort zone and it is often fear that prevents you from doing the things that you really want. ANNIKA deals with all that unfiltered in her songs, and her soulful voice speaking to one’s heart.
photography by Malwine Zeiseler
video filmed by David Sattler
You have lived in many places: England, Los Angeles, Vienna, Bolzano and Madrid. Now you are in Munich, do you feel at home there?
Yes, I think I can feel home everywhere because really my routines are my home. (smile) I would be open and flexible to move again.
As an artist, you also want to create something that pleases others. But there is also the approach: “I make what I like and I don’t have to please anyone.” When I think about it for a while, I think that basically it’s not always a bad approach to create something that other people will love. Because art is, among other things, also supposed to make other people have beautiful thoughts or moments. A break from everyday life. Or even help in difficult times. What do you think about that?
For me personally, I do not think about the outcome. I honestly just let the words and music happen in the moment and that’s how I simply fulfill this inexplicable need of expression. And after that of course sharing my work with the outside world is another step and it’s very nourishing, interesting and exciting how people resonate and response or maybe even not at all. That’s the freedom of art and life.
Your new song “Falling” has wonderful, soft vibes and also electronic influences. What is the creative background to this song?
Thank you so much (smiles). The lyrics are rather melancholic and I wanted to give this source a contrast so my co-producer David Thornton came up with these beautiful electronic upbeat vibes. It really nourishes the song with strength and positivity. It’s the first time I work together with another producer and I feel so grateful to be fully understood and supported in what I wanted to express.
“From a young age I’ve always perceived the world very sensitively and felt things very deeply.”
One line in the song is “Letting go is painful, but after letting go the pain, you can start new again”. True words. Is there a specific personal life situation you are referring to?
From a young age I’ve always perceived the world very sensitively and felt things very deeply, no matter in which direction. This was also overwhelming sometimes and it can hit you like a wave. But the more you fight against it, the worse it gets. It’s so much easier to allow it, accept it, let it be, let it go and then start new.
Your debut album will be released this summer 2023. What can we expect from this album?
It will be colorful and diverse! Every song has a different vibe and I am so excited to share the whole story!
In an Instagram post you wrote that it wasn’t always easy for you to sing in front of others, to hear yourself and expose yourself on stage. I can definitely relate to that. What was the journey like to get there and opening up, and not letting the fear control you anymore not doing things you actually want to do?
Growth is never comfortable but the only way. Like with everything in life the small steps matter and it’s like a repeating circle where you constantly let go and build new versions. It’s still a journey. And it’s for sure a marathon not a sprint for all of us.
“My debut album will be colorful and diverse! Every song has a different vibe and I am so excited to share the whole story!”
Many pictures on instagram also show you in nature. How important is nature for you? And is it what you draw inspiration from?
I feel home in nature! It’s so important to me. It’s really one of the only ways to clear my inner chaos and be in the moment. My ideas and visions literally come out in exactly these moments.
How often do your parents listen to your music? (smile)
Oh, I think my mum she often puts it on in the car or at home. My dad is still the generation of physical CD’s but we will invite him now to our Spotify Family Account so he can listen to it more or one day I will make him a special CD (smiles)
The last book you read?
Wintering by Katherine May – a present from my mum
Besides music, what are your passions?
Skiing, Running, Nature, Dancing, Eating Good Food
Thanks so much for your time!
Thank you for this beautiful exchange!
