Atlanta-based singer-songwriter and classically trained vocalist Anabeth is developing a distinctive musical identity that brings together theatrical expression, poetic storytelling and the raw energy of alternative rock. Drawing on her background in classical performance, she combines intricate vocal arrangements with emotionally charged songwriting, creating music that balances vulnerability with a growing sense of defiance.
Her latest single ‘Subtleties’ confronts the everyday sexism and expectations surrounding femininity, exploring the frustration of experiencing discrimination that is often overlooked or dismissed. Inspired by Virginia Woolf's A Room of One's Own, the track examines how seemingly insignificant moments can accumulate into something far more emotionally damaging.
So with the new single out now, we sat down with her to find out more about her origins and what has been inspiring her most over the years.
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What was the first instrument you fell in love with?
My instrument has always been my voice. I first discovered my love of singing around the age of seven in my community. I was fascinated by the power of the human voice and the way people could use it to impact others, whether through speaking or singing. When I began discovering my own voice, I realized that I could use it to bring people together. Since then, I’ve been continually falling in love with the human voice and all the ways it can connect us.
What kind of music did you love when you were younger?
Growing up, I was surrounded by all kinds of music. I was always drawn to live performances because I loved experiencing the energy of a space and connecting with the people around me through music. More specifically, musical theatre has been a major source of inspiration and influence for me. Whenever I had the opportunity to listen to or perform show tunes, I took it. I’m fascinated by the storytelling at the heart of musical theatre and the way an entire musical can be woven together, with each song building on what came before and setting the stage for what comes next. This sense of narrative and interconnectedness is something I carry with me in my own songwriting, and I continue to learn from the world of musical theatre as I develop my craft.
What was the first album you remember owning?
This is such a fun question! I’m so excited to answer it. I can’t remember which came first, but it was either Taylor Swift’s Fearless or The Black Eyed Peas’ The E.N.D. I distinctly remember riding in the car with my parents and having one of those CDs playing almost every time we drove somewhere. I often refer to Taylor Swift’s music as the soundtrack to my life because I grew up with her songs at the center of my everyday experiences. And The Black Eyed Peas? They’re just so cool and experimental! I still love both of those records so much.
What is the one song you wished you could have written yourself?
Honestly, there are so many times when I listen to a song and feel inspired to write something of my own. The song that comes to mind right now is “The Seed” by AURORA. Her descriptions of environmental destruction are so poetic and compelling, and I love the way she uses her voice to build momentum throughout the song. It’s such a powerful combination of storytelling and vocal expression, and I think it perfectly represents the kind of music I would love to create. I’m constantly inspired by AURORA and the way she brings her artistry to life.
Do you have any habits or rituals you go through when trying to write new music?
It varies quite a bit at the moment, but I usually start with some grounding breathing exercises to help me settle into a creative headspace. Taking a few moments to be present without any distractions or noise really helps me clear my mind. I might also spend some time journaling and highlighting thoughts or ideas that I feel inspired to write about. I like having a few concepts to explore when I enter a writing session, but once I have that foundation, I just catch a vibe and go!
Who are your favourite artists you have found yourself listening to at the moment?
Another great question! This year, I went to Gov Ball in New York and discovered a few new artists to become completely obsessed with. One artist who isn’t new to me but whom I’ve been listening to a lot this year is Lorde. Her songwriting is incredible, and I’m so inspired by her unique sound and vulnerability. I also really admire how she creates cohesive albums built around a central concept, with each song contributing to a larger story.
A newer discovery for me is Japanese Breakfast, who I also got to see at Gov Ball! I’m obsessed with their sound and melodies. Their music is so sonically interesting, and listening to them always inspires me to experiment and try new things in my own music.
If you could open a show for anyone in the world, who would it be?
Honestly, there are so many artists I would love to open for, but right now, Paris Paloma is at the top of my list. Her new album has been incredibly impactful for me because of her boldness and extraordinary songwriting. She expresses herself so authentically and creates music that empowers and strengthens people. In the earlier question about a song I wish I had written, I almost chose a Paris Paloma song because she has such a beautiful ability to articulate complex feelings and experiences in a way that makes her audience feel truly seen. Her music is genuinely on every single one of my playlists. Opening for her would be an absolute dream. I have so much respect and admiration for her as an artist.
What do you find is the most rewarding part about being a musician?
I love performing songs that have already been released. I think part of what makes it so special is knowing all the people who contributed to bringing each song to life and recognizing that I couldn’t have done it without them. Collaboration is one of my favorite parts of being a musician, and performing released music feels like a celebration of everyone’s hard work. There’s also something so exciting about sharing a fully realized song with an audience and giving them a complete piece of art to connect with. The energy in the room is always so electric and celebratory, and I love being able to share that experience with people.
And what is the most frustrating part?
One of the most frustrating parts of being a musician is learning to navigate perfectionism. Because I write on my own, I sometimes set standards for myself that feel almost impossible to reach. There’s an ongoing internal battle between wanting to create music that feels true to me and learning not to worry so much about what other people might think. Ultimately, as long as I feel called to make music, my hope is to write songs that help people feel seen, understood, and connected to one another. At the end of the day, that’s what matters most to me.
And what is the best piece of advice you have received as a musician?
One piece of advice that has always stuck with me came from one of my music mentors. I told her I wasn’t ready to perform because my guitar skills weren’t where I wanted them to be yet. She looked at me and said, “You’ll never feel ready, so you just have to do it.” That completely blew my mind. Once I took the leap and started performing, I realized just how right she was. My idea of needing to have perfect guitar skills before stepping onstage was holding me back from gaining the very experience I needed to grow. Performing has made it all worthwhile, and I feel so honored to be a songwriter who also gets to share my music onstage.
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Anabeth's new single 'Subtleties' is out now. Check it out in the player below.