ANOHNI Vinyl Records & Discography

Who is ANOHNI? A Brief Career Overview

Meet ANOHNI, an extraordinary artist who transcends the boundaries of music and visual art. Born Antony Hegarty, this British-born American singer, songwriter, and visual artist has captivated audiences with her powerful voice and emotive songwriting. As the lead singer of the critically acclaimed group, Anohni and the Johnsons, she has reinvented herself as a solo artist under her chosen name ANOHNI, exploring the realms of art pop, chamber psych, and experimental sounds.

ANOHNI's impact on the music industry is profound, being a pioneer in amplifying the voices of marginalized communities through her haunting melodies and poignant lyrics. With groundbreaking achievements, including her nomination for an Academy Award--making her the first openly transgender performer to achieve this feat--her journey is nothing short of inspiring. From her early collaborations to her latest vinyl releases, ANOHNI has become a cornerstone of contemporary music, and her works continue to resonate deeply with fans and collectors alike. Join us as we dive deeper into the life and legacy of this remarkable artist!

ANOHNI's Early Life and Background

Born in 1971 in Chichester, England, ANOHNI was raised in a culturally diverse family with Irish roots. Her upbringing was marked by an early awareness of her transgender identity, shaping her worldview and artistic expression. In 1977, her family relocated to Amsterdam, which exposed her to a rich tapestry of cultural influences. By 1981, they settled in the San Francisco Bay Area, a move that proved pivotal in ANOHNI's musical journey.

During her childhood and adolescence, she discovered her passion for music, experimenting with various genres while immersing herself in the vibrant Bay Area music scene. Collecting vinyl records became a source of inspiration and comfort for her, where she found solace in the emotional narratives of artists like Kate Bush, OMD, and Alison Moyet. These formative experiences not only set the foundation for her artistic voice but also fostered a lifelong love for vinyl culture.

The Musical Influences That Shaped ANOHNI's Sound

ANOHNI's artistic sound is a unique concoction of various influences that contribute to her evocative style. Icons such as David Bowie, Nina Simone, and the emotionally resonant music of Marc Almond and the Mambas have all left their mark on her, shaping her approach to songwriting and performance. The eclectic genres of art pop, experimental, and R&B signal her ability to intertwine diverse musical elements seamlessly.

Growing up as a record collector, ANOHNI cherished important vinyl albums, often drawing inspiration from their complex narratives and emotional depth. Each record acted as a stepping stone, informing her creative direction and enriching her artistic expression, ultimately leading her to create her own distinctive sound that merges personal and universal themes.

How ANOHNI Entered the Music Industry

ANOHNI's path into the music industry began during her formative years in Manhattan, where she moved to pursue the Experimental Theater Wing at New York University. It was here that she founded the performance collective Blacklips, which laid the groundwork for her future performances. Embracing her passion, she began collaborating with fellow musicians and artists, performing in smaller venues and honing her craft.

In 2000, she released her debut album under the name Antony and the Johnsons through David Tibet's Durtro label, marking her arrival into the music scene. The initial struggles of distribution and production were soon overshadowed by critical acclaim, culminating in her breakthrough album, I Am A Bird Now, in 2005. This album, which featured powerful vinyl pressings, earned her the Mercury Prize and solidified her role as a significant voice in contemporary music.

ANOHNI's Breakthrough and Rise to Fame

ANOHNI's ascent to fame was propelled by her poignant compositions and striking performances. Her groundbreaking single "Hope" and the album HOPELESSNESS, released in 2016, resonated with audiences and critics alike, marking a significant point in her career. As both albums enjoyed successful vinyl releases, they captured a momentous place in the hearts of collectors. His lyrical mastery earned her numerous nominations, including for the Mercury Prize and Brit Awards.

This newfound recognition allowed ANOHNI to embark on extensive tours and performances at prestigious festivals. Her artistic bravery, including the decision to wear a veil during her 2016 tour, showcased not only her unique style but her unwavering dedication to addressing pressing socio-political issues through her music. ANOHNI's rise to fame was not only about personal achievement but also about uplifting the narratives of underrepresented communities, ensuring her lasting influence in the industry.

How Personal Life Shaped ANOHNI's Music

ANOHNI's deeply personal experiences have played a pivotal role in shaping her music. Her journey as a transgender woman, including relationships and challenges she faced, imbue her work with emotional intensity and authenticity. Themes of identity, love, and loss find their way into her lyrics, inviting listeners into her world of raw vulnerability.

Inspired by significant figures in her life and her involvement in activism, ANOHNI uses her platform to advocate for ecological and social justice issues. Her commitment to philanthropy and activism is artistically manifested in works like the song "Manta Ray," nominated for an Academy Award, which highlights environmental concerns. This blend of personal narrative and activism adds profound layers to her artistry, creating a connection with audiences and encouraging them to engage with important societal issues.