Anabel Rose’s debut EP, Something About A Rose, is a captivating blend of genres and emotions that speaks to her diverse background and evolving sound. With a Ghanaian-Filipino heritage, her music combines a mix of influences, from African rhythms to Western pop, and invites listeners to explore her multifaceted identity. Each track on the EP is a journey—fluid, colorful, and ever-evolving—drawing listeners in with every listen.
What inspired the title Something About A Rose?
The name Anabel Rose is actually my real name. It took me a while to figure out what I wanted to call myself artistically, but once I settled on it, it just felt right. The title of the EP, Something About A Rose, reflects my journey of self-discovery. It speaks to how I’ve been growing, figuring out my sound, and understanding myself as an artist. I felt that it really encapsulated the exploration of different aspects of my identity, just like a rose blossoms and changes over time.
What’s the story and inspiration behind the EP?
Growing up in Ghana, I was deeply connected to African rhythms—they’re in your soul and being. My dad was a huge reggae fan, so storytelling through reggae music really influenced me. I was also inspired by highlife music, and the Azonto movement and dances that were big when I was in high school were a huge part of my life. I also love rock and pop music, so I’ve always wondered how I could merge both worlds —into my sound.
There were also a lot of questions growing up—people would call me Chinese or comment on my food choices and race. Even though Ghana always felt like home, I was constantly reminded that I wasn’t fully Ghanaian. That experience helped me develop a tough skin, and now, as an adult, I can appreciate both sides of my heritage.
The EP is noted for its multi-genre nature—how did that come about?
I wanted the EP to have something for everyone. Each track is different, and I think people will find at least one song they really connect with. But more importantly, I hope they can appreciate the variety of genres that appear across the project. For me, it’s important to showcase my versatility as an artist and introduce listeners to the different sounds I love. Music doesn’t have to be limited to just one style—there’s so much room for experimentation.
Who were the producers involved in your EP, and how did the process unfold?
I worked with four different producers for this project. Two of them are part of my music collective, 99 Phaces—Insane Auggie and Mel. For “Love or Die,” my first song, I collaborated with another producer , who also mixed and mastered the entire EP. It was my first real introduction to the artist-producer dynamic. I had written the song and had a clear idea of how I wanted it to sound, so there was a lot of back and forth to get it just right.
The last track, “Too Friendly,” was the final one I completed for the EP. I connected with JohnWav from the 44DB collective, and he sent me a whole beat pack. I made several songs from that pack, and we eventually chose “Too Friendly.” It was my first experience working with Nigerian producers, which was really exciting.
I write all my songs myself. Everything I write feels very personal to me, so I haven’t yet worked with other songwriters, but I’m open to that in the future.
Are there any future collaborations you’re excited about?
Yes! I’d love to work with Amaarae. Her sound has had a huge influence on me, and I admire her artistry. I’m also a fan of Nigerian artists like Solis and Somadina, and I’d be thrilled to collaborate with them in any capacity
How would you describe your sound in three words?
Emotional, Freedom, and Fluid. My music is emotional, but not in the typical way people think of. It’s about expressing a wide range of feelings—whether you’re happy, angry, or even obsessed. Freedomrepresents the creative space I allow myself to explore with my music, and Fluid .
What inspires your personal style?
When I was in school in the U.S., I used to thrift a lot, mostly because I didn’t have much money, but also because you could find so many cool, unique pieces. Over time, I developed my own style—baggy pants, crop tops, and things like that. When I moved to Ghana and started focusing more on music, people told me I needed to make my style more intentional. That made me think about how my look could align with my sound. Since my music is bubbly and pop, I wanted my style to reflect that—bright colors, fun, and energetic.
What’s your favorite thing about making music?
It’s the ability to express things that are hard for me to say out loud. Music is a way to get things off my chest. Sometimes, I’ll be feeling down or uninspired, but when I start playing my guitar and writing, it’s like an instant release. Afterward, I realize why I felt that way. Music helps me process emotions and navigate through life.
If you could create the soundtrack for any movie, what would it be?
I’d love to make the soundtrack for Insecure by Issa Rae. The music in that show is so relatable, and it really captures the essence of real-life moments. I want my songs to do the same—to be the soundtrack to people’s real, everyday experiences. I’d also love to work on soundtracks for dramatic animations—something with a lot of depth and emotion.
What advice would you give to your younger self?
Believe in yourself and trust what you’re capable of. The things you thought weren’t possible are going to happen in ways you didn’t expect. Keep pushing forward because everything is falling into place.
What’s next for you?
I’m already working on new music and exploring even more sounds. I’m excited to continue experimenting and growing as an artist.
As Anabel Rose’s debut EP makes waves, her future looks bright with even more music to come.
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