Exclusive Interview: Pop Culturalist Chats with Anna Shoemaker

Anna Shoemaker is an alt-pop singer-songwriter who’s striking a chord with listeners around the world. Already named an “Artist to Watch in 2020” by Ladygunn, Anna has taken all of her life experiences and captured them in her six-track EP Everything Is Embarrassing. Inspired by the human condition, Everything Is Embarrassing is instantly relatable and features bop after bop. Pop Culturalist caught up with Anna to chat about the release!

PC: How did you discover your passion for music?
Anna: I’ve always been fascinated by lyrics and storytelling, but I think I wanted to make music because it’s a really concise and satisfying way to express how you’re feeling.

PC: Who or what has had the biggest influence on your career?
Anna: I’m really influenced by things that are universally human like love, sadness, and embarrassment. I think it’s crazy that we’re all so different, but we all have these emotional commonalities.

PC: You’ve had a lot of success already in your young career. When you look back, is there a particular moment that stands out?
Anna: I think the best part has been creating relationships within the music industry. I’ve met so many people who have become like family to me.

PC: You just released a new EP. Tell us about Everything Is Embarrassing and the inspiration behind the collection.
Anna: All of the songs are really specific and honest. By naming it Everything Is Embarrassing, I feel like I was able to be as vulnerable as possible. I think by saying everything is embarrassing it almost makes it so nothing is embarrassing.

PC: If you had to pick one song off of Everything Is Embarrassing that best encompasses you as an artist, what would it be and why?
Anna: That’s a hard question! I feel like they all say a lot about who I am as an artist. If I had to choose, I would say it’s between “So Low (Solo)” and “Someone.” “So Low (Solo)” is personal and pretty much a stream of consciousness. I feel like that says a lot about who I am as a person. “Someone” shows more where my music is going sonically.

PC: You’ve stated that living in Brooklyn has played a major role in your development as an artist. Tell us about that journey of finding your voice.
Anna: I think it’s helped me find people I am super comfortable working with in the studio. That’s the most important thing. Being vulnerable and open has been key to making my songs as honest as they can be.

PC: As you look ahead to the rest of 2020, what does the year hold for you?
Anna: Hopefully, I will be touring at some point! It’s been crazy with the coronavirus. I’ve just been quarantined in the studio writing a lot of new songs, so maybe I will put some of those out!

Pop Culturalist Speed Round

PC: A band or artist that fans would be surprised to learn is on your playlist?
Anna: Car Seat Headrest

PC: First album you bought?
Anna: Late Registration by Kanye West

PC: First concert you attended?
Anna: Backstreet Boys

PC: An album that changed your life and why?
Anna: Ctrl by SZA. Her style of storytelling completely shifted the way I wanted to write. Anything that’s honest and stream of consciousness always inspires me.

PC: A venue on your bucket list to perform at?
Anna: Red Rocks

PC: A must-have on the road?
Anna: Headphones

To keep up with Anna, follow her on Twitter and Instagram. Pick up or stream Everything Is Embarrassing today.