At AWAL, we love sharing our artists’ stories so their paths — as individual and unique as the music they make — inspire others to pursue their own music-career goals.
Here in our “My Journey” series, our members share their stories — the challenges they’ve faced, how they’ve overcome them, the milestones they’ve achieved, and where they hope the future leads.
This week, we’re speaking with UK-based folk artist — Anna Pancaldi.
How did you get your start as an artist?
I have been singing since I was a little girl, but I truly began to take it seriously when I traveled around the world for nine months with my teeny guitar that looks more like a violin.
I traveled from Nepal to Malaysia, New Zealand, and South America, and I wrote the music that needed to be written along the way. It was a hugely poignant moment in the rudimental stages of my journey.
Can you tell us about some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced so far?
Trying to balance all aspects of being an artist, writer, and business woman. I am hugely focused and driven, and, with that, sometimes comes a lack of knowing when to allow yourself to take a break and a moment to look at what you’ve achieved and pat yourself on the back. We are always having to look forward, but recognizing where you have come from is so important, too. So, balance — that’s the big one for me.
What have been some of the most rewarding moments in your career so far?
Some of the most rewarding moments thus far have been charting in the Top 10 of the iTunes singer-songwriter charts with all three releases — a wonderful feeling! Selling out my London headline shows, touring in the US, and selling out my NYC show are also major highlights. They’re some very special moments that I won’t be forgetting. Just seeing that the music I am passionate about and want to create is connecting with people out there.
Are there any major milestones on the horizon?
I am just waiting to get my three-year O1 visa after touring in the States last year. My management is based in LA, so I am going to be spending a lot more time out there!
I signed a sync deal recently out of the States and received a funding deal from Kobalt, so it’s wonderful to see the team building with people who are really invested in my career. 2018 is going to be an exciting one!
What are some of your ultimate goals for your music career?
I want to sell out the Royal Albert Hall and tour all over the world building a big fanbase in other markets like South America, Germany, Australia, etc. There’s a lot that I want! Aiming high!
How has your experience with AWAL been so far?
Brilliant! They’re so helpful and supportive, and they want to work with artists they see putting in the graft!
The best outlets for artists to learn from are from other artists! Sign up to the AWAL Weekly and see how AWAL artists like Anna Pancaldi are conquering the grind and finding success!
