Today we’d like to introduce you to Ana Santiago.
Hi Ana, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start, maybe you can share some of your backstories with our readers.
I’ve been writing music since I was about 7 years old, and I’ve worked in audio production since I was about 20. I worked on my debut release, Born Close to Water, for about a year and a half, and it was released in December 2022. I’ve loved music for as long as I can remember. My parents are huge music fans, and my love for making music was always supported. I’m so inspired by all the music I heard growing up, like Prince, Led Zeppelin, Tracey Chapman, and Fleetwood Mac.
We all face challenges, but looking back, would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Nothing worth it is ever easy. I’m a self-taught guitarist and pianist, which comes with its struggles. I’m a woman in a male-dominated field of audio production, so that also comes with its struggles.
Let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I’m a singer-songwriter and audio engineer. I write, record, and perform all my music, but I’ve also worked with others on their projects. I’m so proud of my debut release because it was such a hard and long road. I work hard to be taken seriously and progress every time I work on music. I take influences from my Cuban and Black heritage, two cultures that are so rich in music and art. The next release I’m working on has a lot of Latin influence. I grew up in the Bay Area, so being based in Saint Louis now means I’m always trying to bring that Latin influence to everything I do.
Where do you see things going in the next 5-10 years?
I know what I’d like to see: more women and queer folks on the technical side. It can be intimidating to walk into a recording session and not see yourself in anyone. Some of my favorite times working with others on the recording were when I was with other women, like my friend Lexi, a producer. It’s so inspiring to see it and feel that energy.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anasantiagomusic/?hl=en
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/AnaSantiMusic?s=20&t=QprvZR86TfYIIHH2Gs__ag
- Youtube: https://m.youtube.com/channel/UCHqFWWy9TJtOqvr_RYrpI9w/playlists
- Other: https://anasantiago.bandcamp.com/album/born-close-to-water
