Written by Sophie Wyatt

What are your first memories of music from growing up? 

My first memories of music are probably from my grandmother’s house—something old, Persian, sad, and poetic. Even happy Persian music is sad. We are dramatic like that. Maybe Googoosh or Mahasti. Or something like The Black Eyed Peas or Nelly Furtado—I grew up with 2000s pop music playing through the radio that was on constantly. 

When did you realize you wanted to create music yourself? 

I don’t think it was a conscious choice at first. I’ve just sort of always been inclined to reading and writing as much as singing. As a kid, it started off with rhymes on the playground that I paired with melodies. But I think my first conscious effort was when I was fifteen and applied to an all-musicians high school in Stockholm called Rytmus. It stood between focusing on songwriting or singing, and I just remember thinking, “Why the hell would I want to sing covers for three years?” So, I guess that choice led me to the realization that I have a lot to say, as I went into songwriting and production after that. 🙂 

How would you best describe your music outside the constraints of the term ‘genre’? I.e., how does it make you feel, and how do you want others to feel listening to it?

Oo, what a refreshing way to ask this question. I genuinely make music from such a subconscious place, so it’s hard to pinpoint exactly how it makes me feel. I guess, in a way, it makes me feel seen? Haha, like I am assuming form, appearing to… myself? Processing emotions is a very mechanical process for me, not instinctive at all. Making stuff, on the other hand, feels as easy as breathing. Contextualizing my experiences in a world that feels safe to explore, where I am the conductor of events, just makes life easier to digest. I hope that translates to other people as well, that they feel seen, in whatever way that means for them. And, if it’s not too much to ask, I also hope that they feel inspired to go to these weird places within themselves. It’s a goldmine in there. 

Is there a track on the EP that’s currently resonating with you more? If so, why?

I was very tired of “Shoulder,” it being the first single and doing the visuals and stuff like that really wore it out for me. I’ve found my way back to it though, and I’m really proud of the production on it. The flute is very nostalgic to me. 

How do you think the Stockholm music scene is developing for up-and-coming artists? 

I think it’s the best it’s ever been. I am very proud to be a part of a culturally significant movement right now, filled with artists who prioritize the craft over everything. Mainly driven by queers, people of color, and women, by the way. Shout out to each and everyone involved in making the Stockholm independent scene flourish—you know who you are!

You can find Venus Anon’s latest EP Catharsis on Spotify now