Ananya’s Photo by Sophia French
Ananya, the Zimbabwean-born rising singer/songwriter based in London, is a multi-talented artist excelling in music. Her latest single, "Macy Gray," pays homage to the legendary artist and is part of her debut EP, "I Woke Up One Night." With over half a million streams, the EP features hit tracks like "Bad for You" and "Gone (Forever)," showcasing Ananya's emotive vocals and reflective songwriting.
Beyond music, Ananya co-founded The Nani Wellness Project to raise awareness about mental health issues in Zimbabwe. This showcases Ananya as a notable presence in the global music scene, combining her musical talent with a commitment to creative expression and mental health advocacy.
If you had to pick one song from your new EP to introduce someone to your music, which one would it be and why?
I think it’d have to be ‘macy gray’. I’m often back and forth when it comes to my favorite song from ‘i woke up one night’, but I tend to lean towards the more vulnerable, melancholic tracks. I think that ‘macy gray’ really encompasses a common feeling and tackles the concept that although tough, remembering the truth, rather than only the good, is vital in moving on.
What's the weirdest inspiration you've drawn for a song?
Throughout this EP, being inspired by my dreams was a new point. It’s something that hadn’t ever happened to me, but I welcomed it with open arms when it came. It started with ‘bad for you’ when I woke up from a nightmare; I dreamed about disloyalty, which turned out to be very much true. It’s my weirdest inspiration - I still have a hard time explaining to people that I discovered the truth from a dream.
What advice would you give to young people wanting to become music producers/singer-songwriters etc
I’m still figuring this out but I try to create what feels most authentic to me, and work that I’m excited and passionate about.
Name one artist or genre that has influenced you/your music
I’m a massive Swiftie.. Taylor Swift has influenced both me and my music. She not only taught me songwriting but also the importance of filling songs with wit and power. Her role as a woman in music is inspiring, and I admire her full dedication to everything she pursues.
How do you overcome creative blocks?
I’m still learning about overcoming creative blocks, but something that has been working for me lately is journaling and meditation. I have this superstition that if I stop focusing on overcoming my creative block, inspiration comes to me.
What's one thing you hope your fans take away from listening to your debut EP?
I hope that anyone listening feels that they have something to relate to, and something to act as a companion to in life’s very real scenarios.