Check out our interview with up and coming artist Annie Scherer who has dropped her new indie-pop single “Take Me Places.” This is Annie’s first single of 2021 and the follow up to her previous single “Andy Warhol.” Both of these two singles will be featured on her upcoming album Garden Bed, which will be dropping on March 26th, 2021.
Annie Scherer comes from the small-town of Voorheesville, NY where she devoted 12 years to classical piano performance. In 2015, she began recording her first EP, Dreams Like This with Nashville producer David Flint. That same year, she started her freshman year at the College of Saint Rose as a music industry major with a vocal concentration.
In 2018, Annie won the Producer’s Choice for the national ‘Celebration of Music’ PBS Special, held in Troy, NY. Annie was invited to LA to tape a performance of her original song, “Andy Warhol,” which will be aired internationally in 2021.
Follow Annie @anniescherer
Hi Annie, please tell us a little about yourself?
I am a 21 year old singer/songwriter from upstate NY, and I’ve always had a profound love of art in many forms. Since I was a child, I’ve thrived in creative pursuits.
Describe yourself in 3 words?
I am passionate, empathic, and ambitious.
We’re sure you have been asked this million times but how did you get in the industry?
I have always been drawn to music and entertainment. I’ve been performing piano since I was 6, and writing music since I was 7. In 2015, I recorded an EP with professional Nashville producer, David Flint. That was my first hands-on experience using a studio and collaborating with an industry pro. I also studied music industry in college.
Describe your sound in 3 words?
I would say my sound is ethereal, emotive, and velvety.
Who influenced you and why did you choose to make music?
Music has always been a big part of my life. When I was growing up, my dad played rock n’ roll classics like the Beatles and the Rolling Stones for my sister and me. That inspired my love for music. I also started classical piano training when I was six.
Do you play any instruments?
I performed classical piano for 13 years. When I was 10, I began playing the trumpet for the school band. I took private lessons for both instruments. I also taught myself guitar and ukulele.
Do you ever get nervous?
Every time I perform I get nervous. But that’s part of the fun.
Tell us about the success of your single “Take Me Places?”
I’m so happy with the feedback I’ve received on this one. It’s a very emotional composition for me, so it’s comforting to hear that people are also moved by the song. I actually play the trumpet on this song during the bridge.
Now tell us about your new song “After Rain?”
“After Rain” is about seeing the light at the end of the tunnel or finding the missing puzzle piece. I wrote and produced the song, with help from my friend, Aidan Sloppy. It’s the power ballad of my upcoming album.
What’s the story behind the song?
I wrote it during a creative peak that followed a long period of writer’s block. The song is written from the fragile state of the narrator, which is how I felt entering a relationship after being so independent for years. It’s about allowing yourself to be vulnerable as you enter new phases of life.
Did you have plans/concerts planned and cancelled because of COVID? If so have you done any online concerts or interaction with your fans?
Yes I did! I was supposed to open for James Supercave at the Hollow Bar + Kitchen in Albany last March. It’s a really awesome venue, so I was very bummed out. I did a couple live stream performances, but I’ve devoted most of my time in quarantine to recording my album.
Which project is still on your bucket list?
I would love to record with a live orchestra one day. Learning a drum kit would be cool too.
What is fun and rewarding about what you do? And what’s not?
Knowing that people are enjoying my art is the best part of making music. The hard work definitely pays off in a number of ways. Having a creative outlet is so rewarding emotionally, and I’m grateful to be able to pursue it as a career. But it is a very difficult and competitive path, which can be scary. Rejection is frustrating too, but it makes the accomplishments all the more gratifying.
What’s next for Annie Scherer in 2021?
My debut album is coming out March 26th! I produced most of it by myself, which makes it very personal.
What is your favorite song? And why?
I have a lot of favorite songs. One of my all time favorites is ‘Clair de lune’ by Debussy. He’s composed some of the most beautiful music. I love to perform a lot of his pieces.
Any loves other than music?
I have always loved film editing since I was in middle school. I also like to draw and create visual art. My go-to is charcoal portraits. Going on walks and exploring nature is another favorite.
If you could meet someone living or dead, who would it be and why?
It’s a tie between John Lennon and Paul McCartney. They’re songwriting idols and I would love to sit with them, drink tea, and talk about life.
Best advice ever given?
The best advice I was ever given was in a book called, The Secret. It talks about how your thoughts are what you become. I’m really interested in the way we think, and how it shapes our being.
How’s a typical day in your life?
My morning coffee is one of the highlights of my day. If I have a day off from work, I never sit still. I am always finding things to do and projects to work on. I usually read or watch a show before bed.
Name one your strengths?
I’m very focused. One of my favorite things to do is to solve cryptoquips and word puzzles. I think the ability to stay focused and patient helps me write music and create art.
Idea of a perfect Sunday?
I love to visit my family or spend time with my friends, which is hard to do during the pandemic.
What is your favorite song to belt out in the car/for karaoke?
That might have to be “Sweet Child of Mine” by Guns N’ Roses.
What is your own definition of happiness?
I think happiness comes down to comfort and contentment. You have to be accepting to be happy.
Do you support any charities?
I like to donate to the WWF once a year. I care a lot about the environment and the planet. I’m also an animal lover.
What is your favorite healthy food?
I love a good salad, especially cucumbers.
And your favorite cheat food?
I’m a sucker for any sour gummy candy.
What would be a deal breaker on a first date?
If the conversation didn’t flow or they didn’t laugh at my jokes, it’s a bad date.
How do you see yourself in 5 years?
Hopefully I’ll have performed on SNL. That is huge on my bucket list.
How would you describe your fashion style?
I’m pretty minimalist and relaxed. I wear mostly plain clothes, but sometimes I’ll wear something with my favorite artwork or band. I have a couple Andy Warhol shirts, a Blondie shirt, and several others with old time rock bands.
What do you think of Social Media?
I’m sick of it to be honest. If it weren’t for music, I’d probably delete it. It’s distracting to reality and time consuming.
Where can we follow you?
Website / Spotify / Facebook / Twitter / Instagram
Quote: It’s a lyric, “I’m so happy ‘cause today I found my friends. They’re in my head” – Kurt Cobain
Movie: Big Eyes
Travel Destination: New Zealand
Sports Team: My dad raised my sister and me to be Pittsburgh Pirates fans after adoring Roberto Clemente.
Photo Credit: Sherry Kocienski
