Annabel Gutherz Releases New Single “Remnant,” from ‘Loose Ends’ Album
Interview conducted on August 20, 2021
By Dan Locke
Today, singer-songwriter Annabel Gutherz shares her new single and lyric video, “Remnant,” from her upcoming debut album ‘Loose Ends.’
“Remnant” is an emotionally poignant coming-of-age track. Atop Americana-influenced guitar and understated percussion, Annabel’s soothing vocals croon about lost friendship: “You were someone that I used to know / But where oh where did that girl go / Now you’re just a remnant of that dear old friend / Stuck in the body of Miss Pretend.”
You are from Montreal, Canada. What was your upbringing like?
I feel so blessed for the wonderful and supportive upbringing I had. It was one truly filled with an abundance of love, learning, fun, and creativity. I was able to explore various interests, which were then nurtured and fostered to become passions.
How did you first discover music?
I first discovered music through my family. Growing up, we were always singing and having little dance parties around the house! My parents introduced me to a number of artists, some of whom are my favorites today, including Stevie Nicks, Alicia Keys, Gladys Knight and the Pips, Elton John, and more! I also took part in numerous musical theatre productions, which instilled in me a strong affinity for musical show tunes!
How did you start writing music?
I started writing music in high school. The first song I wrote was called “Jane.” I turned to pen and paper after someone I believed to be a good friend had proven otherwise. Writing “Jane” was truly a cathartic experience that brought me much-needed clarity. I continue to cultivate my songwriting skills, and absolutely love getting lost in its magic!
You play both guitar and saxophone. How did you get your first guitar and do you still have it?
I do! My mom and I went to a popular music store called “Steve’s Music Store” here in Montreal! I’ve always been aesthetically driven, so when I walked into Steve’s and saw a bright red acoustic guitar hanging on the wall, I knew immediately that was the one for me! The first song I learned was Corinne Bailey Rae’s “Put Your Records On”. I taught myself how to play the song using GuitarTabs.com, and I still have the guitar to this day, although I no longer use it because it’s a tad too small. I now play a Taylor acoustic guitar that I named Sloane while driving through Big Sur!
What is your guitar of choice now? Year, make, and model? And does it have a name?
The guitar which I’ve been writing on as of late is my PRS SE Custom 22 Semi-Hollow Vintage Sunburst electric guitar, and yes! Her name is Priscilla!
How would you describe your music?
I would describe my music as eclectic. As a collective, it doesn’t fit into one genre, although my music pulls predominantly from an acoustic sonic palette and has diaristic lyrics.
Do you remember your first performance? What was it like?
Yes, quite vividly! My first performance was in a local theatre production of “Annie – The Musical.” I was five years old and played an orphan. I was so excited to get to sing my solo line, “Rover, when you think it over, Rover is the perfect name for this dumb-looking dog.” I absolutely loved every second of being a part of the production! I remember feeling impassioned on-stage, and knew it was where I was meant to be!
What do you think makes a good songwriter?
I think good songwriters make detailed, personal experiences feel universal, and complex emotions feel simple, relatable, and comprehensible.
What was the title of your first original song? Did you record it?
The first original song I wrote is called “Jane,” and I did record it! In fact, it was my first single from my upcoming, debut album, Loose Ends.
The proceeds from your single “Legends” were donated to education-based charities in North America. What inspired this?
I wrote “Legends” at a time when I felt the global community was on the precipice of change with many movements and marches taking force. Education, amongst other things, helps to reduce ignorance and breed acceptance, which ultimately builds a more united, loving, and peaceful world. I wanted to be a part of the change in a meaningful way that was both tangible and measurable. Trying to help make quality education accessible to all continues to be at the forefront of my passions and pursuits. Such is the case with my social enterprise, Annie’s Pajammies.
Any chance of your Annie’s Pajammies book series becoming a television special?
I would absolutely love for my Annie’s Pajammies book series to become a television special, specifically a musical one! I think an adaptation would be such a great opportunity to further build intercultural competence in a fun and engaging way, as well as reach new audiences.
What is your songwriting process like?
I typically start with a lyrical idea which I develop into melodies for a verse and/or chorus. I write the lyrics using the Notes app on my phone and record the melodies using the Voice Memos app on my phone. I then expand the remaining song sections, including the pre-chorus, bridge, and outro before arranging and recording a rough demo that I can bring to my extraordinary producer, Dominique Messier!
Tell me about your upcoming album, Loose Ends?
Loose Ends is essentially a body of work that chronicles my teen years leading into my twenties. The songs featured on this record are deeply personal. I’ve worked on and held onto these songs for the longest time because I have been apprehensive at the prospect of baring a little piece of my heart to the world. Ultimately, I believe art is meant to be shared, to connect us, unite us, teach us and heal us… And that is what I’m hoping my album could do for listeners!
Tell me about your single “Wild Side” and the making of the video?
“Wild Side” is a song about attempting to live life to the fullest, unconfined by fears and insecurities. We were still under lockdown in Canada when the song was slated to be released, and as a result, like most of my music videos this year, we conceptualized and filmed it at home! Using a green screen and various psychedelic backdrops from Shutterstock, I was able to edit the videos in iMovie. I had an absolute blast filming “Wild Side” and putting it together!
You just released a new single, “Remnant”. How was it to work with Dominique Messier on this song and the album’s songs?
In one word: Superlative. Dominique is such a brilliant musician, producer, and knowledgeable person. He is always imparting his musical and life wisdom to me. I feel so honored and blessed to get to work alongside someone so talented and experienced.
Out of the eleven songs on your album, which is your favorite track?
Of the songs that have been released, even though I try to be an impartial “Song Mom,” my favorite would have to be “Skylark.” Of the songs that have yet to be released, I would say my favorite right now is “Barcelona.” I’m so excited for people to hear that one! To me, it’s very reminiscent of summer, of romance, and the beauty of exploring new places!
How do you feel about music streaming platforms?
I think music streaming platforms are incredible because they make music accessible to all.
Digital vs. vinyl?
In terms of sound quality, vinyl, although I do thoroughly appreciate the portability and availability of digital music!
What song from the past is on your mind right now? Moreover, what is the meaning that song means to you?
One song from the past that is on my mind right now is “If I Ain’t Got You” by Alicia Keys. Growing up, “If I Ain’t Got You” was my favorite song and the song I always auditioned with. Whenever I write music or reach professional milestones, I reflect back to those musical moments that were so pivotal and helped shape my passion for the craft and magic of music and songwriting.
If “Video Killed the Radio Star” do you think that the Covid-19 virus has killed live music? Do you feel the Covid-19 virus is going to affect the music business in the future?
I don’t believe the Covid-19 virus has killed live music. I think Covid-19 and the resulting pandemic did show us that there are technological means that enable listeners to connect with their favorite artists. Whether it be through ZOOM performances, Instagram Lives, Twitch streams, there are truly innumerable ways by which we can enjoy music that is live, but from the comfort of our homes. I do think this newfound accessibility will affect the music business moving forward, however, I ultimately don’t believe these methods will replace live music as a whole and experiencing live music in a shared space.
Besides earning your bachelor’s degree in Interdisciplinary Music Studies from Berklee, what have you been doing during quarantine?
During quarantine, in addition to earning my bachelor degree, I’ve managed to keep busy by creating material to supplement the rollout of my album, writing new songs, and developing the Annie’s Pajammies brand. I’ve also been watching far too many Netflix shows and YouTube videos!
How do you stay healthy during the lockdown?
During the lockdown, I stay physically healthy by exercising and trying to eat well… And by “well” I mean “balanced” … And by “balanced,” I mean 50% chocolate, 50% “other”! I stay mentally healthy by keeping up with friends via FaceTime, spending quality time with family, as well as challenging myself creatively.
Have you discovered or rediscovered any new hobbies over the past year?
I rediscovered my love of drawing and painting over the past year, and working with different mediums to express myself creatively! I also started to learn Italian using Duolingo as my language learning app, and I absolutely love it!
Sometimes in the past, if a musician stops doing music, they find a new career. For example, David Lee Roth from Van Halen became a licensed EMT in NY for 6 years, San Spitz (guitarist for Anthrax) became a master watchmaker, Dee Snider (Twister Sister) did voice-over work for SpongeBob SquarePants… If you couldn’t do music anymore, what would you like to be doing?
I would love to continue developing and building upon Annie’s Pajammies, and exploring the social entrepreneurial landscape. I am adamant on making a positive impact on society, either through social entrepreneurial means or by informing public policy, specifically pertaining to quality education for all, as well as climate change and the decarbonization of economies.
What/where is your happy place?
My happy place is wherever my family is… And Italy! And wherever there’s good food for that matter…
Anything you would like to say in closing.
I would like to thank you so much for having me and for giving me the opportunity to share a little bit about myself with you! It’s been an honor and so much fun! The depth of my appreciation knows no bounds!
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