- Words Notion Staff
As she prepares for her next musical chapter, we sat down with Ananya to talk about the making of 'All That Glitters Isn’t Gold', the artists who have shaped her journey, and how her music and mental health advocacy are deeply intertwined.
Few artists can turn personal heartbreak into something universally resonant quite like Ananya. The London-based Zimbabwean singer-songwriter has built a reputation for weaving raw emotion into hypnotic indie-pop soundscapes, and her latest single ‘All That Glitters Isn’t Gold’, is no exception. Marking her first release of 2025, the song is a haunting reflection on illusion, self-worth, and the quiet strength of realising the truth too late. With its slow-burning tension and stripped-back intimacy, the track unfolds like a confession that lingers long after the final note. Ananya’s ability to blend vulnerability with fearless sonic experimentation has already earnt her critical praise from a host of tastemakers.
From chart-topping success in Zimbabwe to opening for Hombres G at Spain’s Starlite Festival, Ananya has already carved out a space as one of the scene’s most compelling new voices. But beyond the accolades and growing discography, there’s an artist unafraid to sit with life’s complexities, transforming them into deeply personal and profoundly relatable melodies. She’s now gearing up for a new project, so we caught up with Ananya to talk about the power of songwriting, the lessons she’s learnt from heartbreak, and why, sometimes, the most powerful ending is a quiet one.
‘All That Glitters Isn’t Gold’ carries a deeply introspective and emotional weight. What inspired you to write this song, and how did the creative process unfold?
‘All That Glitters Isn’t Gold’ was inspired by the bittersweet realisation of ignoring red flags. It focuses on feelings of disappointment, broken trust, and, of course, the harsh contrast between illusion and reality. The writing process started on a plane, letting my thoughts spill into my notes app. Later, I sat at my piano, playing the same melody on a loop. It lived in mine and my sister’s message media for a while until I met Patch Boshell. We shaped it into something even more powerful and vulnerable.
The song builds tension before crashing into silence, mirroring its themes of disillusionment and realisation. Was this structure intentional, and how does it reflect your personal experiences?
Yes, the silence represents that moment when reality hits and you finally see things for what they are. It’s like giving so much and then realising you’re getting nothing back. We tried to reflect on that experience with everything crashing down all at once.
Your music has been described as fearless storytelling, blending raw vulnerability with sonic experimentation. How do you approach songwriting when you’re dealing with deeply personal themes?
I try to let the emotions lead. It usually starts like a journal entry, a way to heal or process. Then the lyrics and melodies take shape around that, and by the time I’m done, I’ve made peace with it. I really value honesty when I’m dealing with something personal… there’s no better thing to relate to than the truth.
Your influences range from Lorde and Gracie Abrams to Joni Mitchell and Taylor Swift. How have these artists shaped your sound and approach to storytelling?
I feel I owe so much to the artists who have influenced and inspired me. Lorde taught me how to capture a feeling with vivid imagery, Gracie showed me the beauty in vulnerability, Joni Mitchell is the queen of being honest in the most poetic way, and of course, Taylor Swift showed me the power of turning personal moments into universal ones. I’m grateful to have so many incredible artists to look up to and learn from.
You co-founded The Nani Wellness Project to address mental health in Zimbabwe. How does your advocacy work influence your music, and vice versa?
Writing helps me process my own emotions, so I’d say they’re very much aligned. At the same time, working on The Nani Wellness Project reminds me why honest storytelling matters: because music, like mental health, is all about connection and understanding. I’ve always held onto anything I can relate to because of how it has helped me. I continue learning about the importance of sharing experiences, even when it’s difficult.
Your debut EP i woke up one night was heavily inspired by dreams, nightmares, and mental health themes. How do you balance personal introspection with making your music universally relatable?
Staying honest helps me focus on the emotions we all share — loneliness, hope, and heartbreak. By being honest about my own experiences, I find that others can see themselves in the music, too. It’s less about telling my story and more about capturing feelings that connect us all.
As both a musician and budding fashion designer, do you see a connection between your music and visual storytelling? How does fashion influence your artistry?
Definitely! Music and fashion are both forms of self-expression. The way a song feels can inspire the way I present it visually – whether through styling, colours, or overall aesthetic. Fashion helps bring my music to life beyond just sound.
You’ve already achieved major milestones, from opening for Hombres G at Spain’s Starlite Festival to landing chart-topping singles in Zimbabwe. What’s been the most defining moment of your career so far?
It’s hard to pick just one. Playing at Starlite was a surreal moment, the energy from the crowd was incredible. And, of course, being on the radio back home still makes me giddy. I’d say the most defining moments are when someone tells me my music has meant something to them.
‘All That Glitters Isn’t Gold’ is the first release from your next project. Can you share any details about what fans can expect from your upcoming music?
My upcoming music feels more unfiltered and somehow a little wiser… It’s less about making a statement and more about the journey toward where I’d like to be.
Your name, Ananya, means ‘unique.’ How do you stay true to yourself as an artist in an industry that often pressures musicians to conform to trends?
I get homesick often, so I try to anchor myself in my roots and hold onto the values I was raised with. I’m lucky to call Zim home because it’s not an easy thing to leave behind, so it always reminds me of who I am.