French-born artist Aneessa is no stranger to global grooves and heartfelt melodies. With a lush fusion of smooth jazz and R&B, her music is often compared to legends like Sade, Norah Jones, and Basia. In this exclusive interview with Pump It Up Magazine, Aneessa opens up about her musical roots, artistic growth, and her upcoming single “All Over Again” — a soulful track inspired by her own love story.
Tell Us About Your Music
My sound is an elegant blend of smooth jazz and R&B, produced by my husband and longtime collaborator, Michael B. Sutton — a former Motown hitmaker. I’m signed to The Sound of L.A., where we focus on authenticity, artistry, and timeless sound.
“Just To Be With You” – A Smooth Jazz Breakthrough with Sade Vibes
Before “All Over Again,” I released “Just To Be With You” — and that song really holds a special place in my heart. It’s sensual, emotional, and has that dreamy vibe I grew up loving. People often tell me it reminds them of Sade, and honestly, that’s such an honor. The track is all about deep connection, and I poured so much of myself into it — from the lyrics to the way it flows musically. It’s smooth, intimate, and meant for those quiet, meaningful moments.
And here’s something I’ll never forget — the legendary Freda Payne loved the song so much, she recorded her own version of it. That meant the world to me. To have someone I’ve looked up to my whole life resonate with the track like that… it was truly special.
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The song became one of the most added on Billboard Smooth Jazz radio, gaining traction across both U.S. and U.K. stations. It marked a major milestone in my career, with DJs and fans comparing its elegance and delivery to iconic artists like Sade, Norah Jones, and Lisa Stansfield.
This track helped me break through to new audiences and solidified my place in the international smooth jazz scene.
🎧 Stream “Just To Be With You” on Spotify
💿 Buy the track or explore more at www.aneessa.com
📻 Tune into KPIU Radio to hear it live
When Did You Start Performing?
My journey began in Saint-Étienne, France and Paris, France, via Manchester, UK, where I fell in love with jazz, contemporary dance, and soul music. Performing under the name Lady Aneessa, but it wasn’t until I embraced my true identity that I found my unique voice as a smooth jazz artist here in Los Angeles, California.
Who Are Your Biggest Influences?
I grew up listening to everything from Motown and ’80s/’90s R&B to Madonna. Her ballads are unforgettable. But the artist I’m most often compared to — and proudly so — is Sade. That smooth, soulful storytelling is what I aim to evoke.
You and your husband Michael B. Sutton have created some beautiful music together. What’s it like making music as a couple, and do you have a favorite track you’ve done together?
Oh, I love this question! Honestly, making music with Michael is magic. We connect on such a deep level — not just in life, but creatively too. One of my favorite songs we’ve done together is our duet “I Found Myself in You.”
It’s so personal. It came from a real place in our journey… that feeling when you’ve been through so much and finally find your safe place — your person. That’s what this song is all about. It’s soulful, honest, and full of heart.
I get emotional every time I hear it.
What Does Success Mean to You?
For me, success is about freedom and emotional growth. I sing about leaving Saint-Étienne not with bitterness, but with gratitude. That city gave me the roots to grow — and the strength to soar. My song “Merci“ (which means “thank you” in French) is a heartfelt tribute to this very journey. It expresses the personal challenges I faced, the strength I gained, and the appreciation I now hold for the place that shaped me.
Do You Have Any News to Share?
Yes! I’m thrilled to announce the release of my new single, “All Over Again,” coming April 28. It was inspired by a personal moment between my husband and me when we were talking about renewing our vows. That sparked a beautiful conversation about lasting love, and we turned it into a song.
“Love isn’t always perfect, but it’s real,” I always say. “Some days it flows, and some days it takes effort. But when I look at my husband, Michael B. Sutton, I still feel that spark—like falling in love all over again.”
The track blends everything I love: emotional storytelling, soulful jazz, and lush production by former Motown and hitmaker Michael B. Sutton. I can’t wait for you to hear it!
Tell Us More About “All Over Again”
“All Over Again” is deeply personal and was written to celebrate real, lasting love. It has the emotional depth of Sade, with the timeless elegance of Lisa Stansfield. It’s soothing, soulful, and a perfect reflection of where I am as an artist today.
The single drops on April 28, and will be available on all major platforms. CDs and vinyls are also coming soon for collectors and smooth jazz lovers.
Be the first to hear ‘All Over Again’ — subscribe to Aneessa’s newsletter for early access! — and keep an eye out for more releases through www.thesoundofla.com/aneessa.
Be the first to hear ‘All Over Again’ — subscribe to Aneessa’s newsletter for early access!
Where Can Fans Connect with You?
- 🌎 Website: www.aneessa.com
- 📱 Instagram: @aneessamusic
- 🔗 Linktree: linktr.ee/aneessamusic
- 🎧 Listen: Spotify | KPIU Radio
- 🎥 YouTube: Aneessa Official Channel
- 🎤 Label: The Sound of L.A.
Final Words for the Fans
I am so grateful for the love and support you continue to show me. Every song I write, including “All Over Again,” is a piece of my heart. I hope it resonates with you, uplifts you, and becomes part of your personal soundtrack.
Let’s continue this musical journey together. Until next time, keep the love alive—one song at a time.
Discover more at www.aneessa.com | www.thesoundofla.com | www.kpiuradio.com
If you’re an artist, creator, or brand inspired by Aneessa’s story and ready to take your career to the next level — from professional music promotion and radio campaigns to reels creation, branding, and content design, you don’t have to do it alone. The right team can help you bring your vision to life — beautifully and strategically.
