Genre fluid, singer/songwriter Anna Dellaria is back in action for 2020. With her most recent release, “Sorry Doesn’t Work,” Dellaria continues to make moves despite the current predicament. We had the chance to speak with Anna regarding her newest release and what’s to come in 2020. We’re happy to have her join our roster of “On The Rise” artists!
Credit: Lilly Duran
For our readers who aren’t familiar with you or your music, can you share with us how you began your musical journey?
Here’s the scene: a 6-yr-old Anna sitting on her couch in The Bay Area, CA watching “Sister Act” and listening to Lauryn Hill’s voice. Since that moment, I’ve been consumed by singing in particular, and soon after, songwriting and improvising melodies. I fell in love with the sincerity of R&B/Soul Voices, and the melodic lines of big pop songs (cue me singing “Toxic” as loud as I could at 8 years old). I got my hands on a piano and learned some chords by ear, which inspired my own songs that have led me here today.
How would you define your sound? What genre would you classify your music under?
That’s something that I’ve always found difficult. It’s definitely got some pop melodies and R&B vocals. Technically Pop/R&B, but I think that every artist kind of feels trapped once we have to identify with something. I guess an analogy would be like having to proclaim to the world your final personality type: are you “girl next door w/ too many feels” or “badass rebellious warrior w/ hard exterior”; Hard to choose only one. I kinda feel like the genre at the end of the day changes a bit like that.
“Sorry Doesn’t Work” is your first release of 2020, as well as your most recent release. How does the release of this song set up the rest of your year?
Initially, it was meant to act as a perspective change – a switch up from some of the more high energy stuff and offer a more intimate moment. I have about 6 singles lined up and they’re a bit more energetic and in your face. However, in light of the pandemic – I’ve been eager to share a few of the more stripped and raw songs that I hope might help someone listening to feel less alone during this strange time.
Credit: Max Baker
Can you explain the meaning behind “Sorry Doesn’t Work,” and what the song means to you? What was the process of creating this track?
This song represents the helplessness we all feel when we can’t truly help or heal someone we loved. In this case, it’s because I pushed someone away in the heat of the moment. However, my co-writers and I were all grappling with this concept in different ways like trying to console a friend who had just lost a loved one. It’s more of a question resonating with that desperation.
In 2019 you had partnered with nonprofit, Beyond Differences, who target isolation and bullying in middle schools across the country. What did this partnership mean to you?
It was so impactful and amazing to see the power of music and community to raise funds and awareness to such a meaningful cause. Growing up at times I think all of us feel isolated, but I think that loneliness is 10x worse with online bullying and social media. It was important to me to use the tool (music) that allowed me to get through my own bouts of mental health to help others get through their struggles.
What do you want people to take away from listening to your music?
I just hope they feel something. Whether it’s happiness, sadness, connected. My goal is for my music to make listeners feel present and less alone.
What song would you want new listeners to listen to first to get the best grasp of your sound?
“I Choose Me” – I think it’s got the best balance of all the little parts of the artistry in one.
What lyric, either from one of your released or unreleased songs, resonates the most with you?
Hmmmm, that’s tough. I’d say right now it’s: “you won’t break me down – in the darkness I’ll be found”. I try to keep in mind that even if I don’t see the path to the light at the end of the tunnel it doesn’t mean I won’t get through. Whether that be a bad day or a bad year. Sometimes just holding on as best you can day by day is enough to make it out.
Can you share with us some of your upcoming projects and what you have in the works?
New music! 🙂 Expect a new song by the end of May.
Where do you see yourself musically in 5 years from now?
Hopefully touring and performing live a lot.
Do you have a message for your fans? And do you have a message for people who have yet to discover you and your music?
Just love for listening and supporting <3
Credit: Lilly Duran
Be sure to keep up with Anna Dellaria on INSTAGRAM || TWITTER || SPOTIFY
