By Kurtavia Burton
Meet rising star Anna J, a captivating country music artist with charm and vibrant energy here in Charlotte. I spoke to Anna J during a short break for her live performance at Shep’s Bar and Grille in Mint Hill, North Carolina last weekend.
Born in Frederick, Maryland, and raised for a time in Nashville, Tennessee, Anna J Stamato (stage name Anna J), proudly identifies as a “Maryland girl.” Having spent the last four years in Charlotte, she is observing the local landscape. “I love Charlotte and it’s such a burgeoning music city,” Anna J said.
Charlotte’s enthusiasm for country music resonates with Anna J, fueling her motivation and excitement. The demand for live music in the city presents a great opportunity for her growing career. Anna J’s musical journey began when she started playing guitar in the fourth grade, sparking lifelong passion. Her artistic inspiration draws from influences including Taylor Swift and her father’s cherished tunes, featuring legends like Randy Travis, Shania Twain and Alan Jackson.
A dream collaboration for Anna J would be to work with either Randy Travis or Taylor Swift, artists who have profoundly shaped her music foundation. Describing her sound, Anna J emphasizes her country music roots, writing, performing and connecting. She values the authenticity of real instruments, particularly the guitar and banjo, which are integral to her sound. She said her artistic vision aims to blend the nostalgic sounds of 90s country music with the raw energy of southern rock and the contemporary flair of artists like Taylor Swift and Ella Langley. Anna J plans to release new music this summer with the release of an anticipated single. Additionally, for the fourth consecutive year, her band will perform an acoustic concert at Lake Wylie, located near the North Carolina-South Carolina border, on the Fourth of July, a testament to her growing local presence. Details for this event are forthcoming.
For Anna J, authenticity is vital. “The main thing about me is being myself and being authentic through my music. Same person on and off stage,” she said. Her songwriting is rooted in personal experience. “I write music from real experiences,” she said, offering a glimpse into the nature of her craft.
“Playing unlocks parts of yourself,” she said, highlighting the transformative power of music. Anna J expresses gratitude for her family’s unwavering love and support. As one of four siblings and with Italian heritage, Anna J’s family provides a strong foundation for her artistic pursuits.
To connect with Anna J and follow her musical journey, follow her on Instagram @annajmusic, YouTube at Anna J Stamato, Facebook at Anna J, and her website at AnnaJStamato.com. As she continues to rise in the country music scene, Anna J’s genuine spirit and authentic sound are sure to captivate audiences both in Charlotte and beyond.
For Anna J, authenticity is vital. “The main thing about me is being myself and being authentic through my music. Same person on and off stage,” she said. Her songwriting is rooted in personal experience. “I write music from real experiences,” she said, offering a glimpse into the nature of her craft.
“Playing unlocks parts of yourself,” she said, highlighting the transformative power of music. Anna J expresses gratitude for her family’s unwavering love and support. As one of four siblings and with Italian heritage, Anna J’s family provides a strong foundation for her artistic pursuits.
To connect with Anna J and follow her musical journey, follow her on Instagram @annajmusic, YouTube at Anna J Stamato, Facebook at Anna J, and her website at AnnaJStamato.com. As she continues to rise in the country music scene, Anna J’s genuine spirit and authentic sound are sure to captivate audiences both in Charlotte and beyond.
