IN CONVERSATION WITH ANNA

interview by MARIANA MALHEIRO

ANNA is a globally acclaimed Brazilian DJ and producer known for her powerful, emotive techno sound. Hailing from São Paulo, she has risen to prominence in the electronic music scene through her dynamic performances at festivals like Tomorrowland and Awakenings.  Blending pulsating beats with introspective melodies, ANNA's music offers both energy and depth, captivating listeners worldwide. Beyond the club, ANNA explores deeper sonic territories through ambient music and spiritual themes, reflecting her journey of self-discovery and mindfulness. With her innovative approach to music and a passion for pushing creative boundaries, ANNA has become a standout figure, earning respect and admiration across the global techno community.

How did the idea of producing electronic music come to you? I understand your father was a DJ. Did he influence your perspective on the music scene, and how did that impact you as you found your voice and style in the industry?

My dad was definitely a big influence, though not directly in the style I play. He had a club with my grandfather, and I grew up around all types of music. I don't remember exactly when he became a DJ, but I always remember him as one. He played everything from Todd Terry to Corona, a mix of Brazilian music and electronic. When I started DJing, I played Brazilian music like axé, but I soon fell in love with the electronic floor—the techno side. I started DJing at 15, playing seven-hour sets by myself. That's when I started mastering the craft, learning to mix on vinyl. It was a natural evolution from there, and while my father influenced me, it was my passion for techno that took over.

Your remix of "Pulvertum" has been a hit, with many DJs playing it. Could you share insights on why you chose this track for a remake and what you were hoping to evoke with this release?

"Pulvertum" was a journey that started in Tomorrowland 2023. I was playing at Amelie Lens' stage, between her and Kobosil, and I needed something special. I wanted to pay homage to Belgium’s electronic scene, so I looked into classic tracks, and my boyfriend suggested "Pulvertum." It was perfect—the vocals, the synth line. I worked on it for a long time, not just making a simple edit but reproducing parts and cleaning the vocal. It became the highlight of my set, and I knew it had potential. So, after a long process of securing the rights, we released it officially through Charlotte de Witte's label, and it's been a huge success, from being played by big names like Amelie and Charlotte and being on the top charts on Beatport.

Melodic techno is known for creating a journey for the listeners. How do you structure your sets to guide your audience through this experience?

I don't over-prepare my sets in a rigid way. Throughout the week, I’m always researching new music and producing, so the preparation happens naturally. When it comes to the actual set, I like to arrive at the venue, feel the energy of the crowd, and adapt to what’s happening at the moment. If I’m playing a longer set, I usually bring about 120 tracks with me, and decide on the spot what fits best. Tomorrowland was a bit different, as I had a shorter time and wanted to deliver something structured. Still, generally, I enjoy playing with the flow, creating a journey that evolves with the energy in the room. 

How do you feel your musical identity has developed over the years, especially with influences from local DJs and later, international experiences?

In the beginning, my sound was heavily shaped by local DJs in Brazil. I didn’t have the internet to access international music at first, so I learned from those around me. When I moved to Europe, I was exposed to a much wider variety of music. This, combined with my life experiences, has shaped my sound. Over time, I opened up to new genres, like ambient music, which has also influenced my techno productions. My music is now more intentional and carries a deeper emotional and spiritual connection. It’s all about growth—both as a person and as an artist.

Your album Intentions blends electronic music with healing and higher vibrations. Can you share more about the spiritual connection behind your music?

Intentions was born out of my journey into deeper spiritual awareness. In 2017, I went through a major personal shift that made me experience music in a completely new way. I became fascinated with the healing power of sound, and how frequencies can affect our energy. This album is all about bringing peace, healing, and good vibrations through music. I use it for meditation and even sleep, and I’ve heard from listeners that it has brought them comfort in difficult times, which is the ultimate reward for me. As for fate, I do believe in it—I think everything in life happens for a reason, and music is my way of connecting to those higher energies.

Do you have any pre-set rituals to get into the right mindset before performing?

Yes, I usually take a few moments to meditate, I do a little prayer, like to leave my ego aside and be there, like serving everyone and having a good time with everyone. And allowing the energy to work through me. So just to, to be there in service and not in service of my ego. And I use essential oils, I use some frankincense and rose oil. It helps me ground myself and align my energy before stepping on stage. I think it's important to have that moment of calm so that I can connect more deeply with the crowd once the music starts.

What keeps you inspired to innovate and push the boundaries of your sound? How do you avoid creative blocks?

Nature and travel are two huge sources of inspiration for me. Whenever I feel blocked, I take time to disconnect, go outside, or immerse myself in a new culture. It helps refresh my mind and brings new ideas into my music. I stay curious about life, which naturally keeps my creativity flowing. It’s important not to force creativity—sometimes taking a step back is exactly what you need to move forward. If I'm in the studio, and then nothing is happening, and I start to get anxious, and then I remember like, just creation, you know, let creation happen, just sometimes it takes time to happen, so I've, I've been learning how to relax into the blocks, because they're gonna go away, if you relax into them, if you don't give more energy into the blocks, you just be there with it, it's part of it, because you cannot force creativity, understand that, this is a phase.

What kind of attitude do you think is necessary to grow and succeed in the music industry?

Persistence is key, as well as staying true to yourself. The industry can be tough, and there are moments when you might doubt yourself, but if you remain authentic and passionate about your sound, that will resonate with people. It’s also important to be adaptable—things change quickly, and you have to evolve without losing sight of who you are.

How do you incorporate elements of Brazilian culture or sound into your music? 

Brazilian music and culture are a huge part of who I am. I love mixing elements of samba and Brazilian rhythms into my sets like I did at Tomorrowland. It’s important for me to stay connected to my roots, and I do feel a responsibility to represent Brazil internationally. I’m proud of where I come from, and I want to share that with the world.

What excites you currently?
Consciousness 

What’s one track that never gets old for you?
Sweet Dreams 

Who is a DJ you’d love to collaborate with?
Laurent Garnier

What was your highlight this year?

My trip to Egypt 

What’s the best advice someone has given you?
Seems cliche, but do what you love! Pursue what you love with perseverance and heart.