Aneesa Strings has officially entered her next era.
The singer-songwriter-musician and sonic visionary just dropped her latest EP, “The Calm,” which is now available globally through SRG-ILS (Universal Music Group/Virgin Music). It’s already shaking the table with its ambient warmth, heartfelt messages, and lyrical vulnerability. Crafted as a response to the whirlwind energy of 2024’s news cycle and personal battles, the project breathes intention from start to finish.
“The Calm was inspired by the chaotic news cycle of 2024 and how crazy my life was at the time,” Aneesa shared. “We are constantly bombarded and inundated with bad news and other people’s thoughts… I just felt that we all deserve a break and that is why I made this EP.”
And she delivered exactly that.
The EP is a breathtaking blend of jazz, soul, and R&B fusion, painting with a soft yet vibrant palette. Aneesa channels her experiences through empathetic storytelling, making “The Calm” feel like a sonic retreat and an emotional restoration.
The world got its first taste of the project in the Fall of 2024 when Aneesa released “We Are The Music” as the lead single. Co-written with David Michael Ott, the track soared to the #1 spot on SiriusXM’s Heart & Soul, holding firm for several weeks. Rich with groove and fueled by a funky yet empowering hook, the song’s success made it clear: Aneesa wasn’t just here to sing—she was here to heal.
Next came “Gramercy Place,” a mellow, melodic ballad that explores themes of vulnerability, emotional boundaries, and personal protection. It’s poetic yet grounded—one of those tracks that feels tailor-made for late-night reflection.
As buzz builds, the spotlight shifts to the official next single from the EP: “All In My Mind.” This one is a vibe all on its own. From the first note, it commands your attention with a rhythmic intensity that feels both dreamy and driven. Aneesa calls it her favorite, and for good reason:
“This song has gotten powerful reactions from everyone that has heard it—whether live or recorded. It’s all about believing in the vision in your mind and fighting through self-doubt to be your greatest self.”
Production-wise, “The Calm” features a standout lineup of musicians and collaborators. Names like SndTrak, vocal guru David Michael Ott, Kool & The Gang’s Curtis Williams, legendary drummer James Gadson, keyboardist Ron “T’Nava” Avant, and her longtime partners Greg Paul and Brandon Cordova all bring a deep, rich texture to the EP’s arrangement. The instrumentation throughout is smooth, live, and beautifully layered—nothing synthetic about this project. It’s real music for real listeners.
But what truly sets Aneesa apart is her literal and metaphorical voice. A classically trained artist with jazz roots, degrees from USC and Michigan State, and a resume that stretches from indie sessions to Gap campaigns and the Hollywood Bowl, Aneesa Strings is walking proof that black women are not only shaping the future of music, they are the future.
With nods from Essence, Genius, Vibe, Blue Note, BallerAlert, and more, her influence continues to rise. She’s not just performing at legendary jazz festivals—she’s becoming a fixture there. And she’s still growing.
As the anticipation builds for her upcoming “The Calm” tour dates, it’s clear that Aneesa’s not just riding a wave—she’s making one.
“I am so proud of this song and the entire body of work,” Aneesa adds. “I can’t wait for the world to hear it.”
Truth is, the world needs to hear it.
