(30th August) Born and raised in Co. Kilkenny, Ireland, Annika Kilkenny is a singer, songwriter and musician who uses her storytelling skills to weave relatable narratives of youth and insecurity into her delicate, folk-inspired songs. Today the release of her new single "It's Shaped You" marks the beginning of the next chapter.
“This song is a nod to change,” Annika explains, “by acknowledging that change can be scary and uncomfortable, we also acknowledge that change is necessary for internal growth.”
“You should allow your experiences to mould you into a better version of yourself,” she adds, “allow yourself to take guidance from people you trust but disregard other comments or critiques sent your way from people you wouldn’t go to for advice.”
Produced by Ant Whiting (Lana Del Rey, Matt Maltese) and co-written by Emily Phillips (Florence and the Machine, Matilda Mann, SOAK), “It’s Shaped You” is an honest reflection of where Annika’s head is at in terms of her sound and how she wants to progress as an artist. Capturing the essence of hopefulness, fear and anticipation through its earthy production with acoustic guitar and the Electromuse lap steel guitar.
Earlier this year Annika shared her debut EP Look Mom I Made It. Its title track has been streamed over 1 million times on Spotify alone, a staple of their Most Beautiful Songs In The World playlist, and Annika's work has been praised by tastemakers in Ireland, the UK and beyond.
Record Of The Day gushed about "Sentences," saying "Annika has that talent of making the listener feel like her friend and confidant" and on "Stones Throw Away", The Line Of Best Fit said "the depth of emotion captured in her vocals is rare."
Hot Press, in their Hot for '24 round-up, say Annika is "one of the country’s most compelling young talents" and RTE's New Music Show presenter Beta Da Silva regularly describes her as one to watch having played almost every single Annika has releasing thus far on Irish national radio.
A highlight of her career thus far was opening for GRAMMY-winning superstar Laufey, following a personal invitation from the artist. And thanks to her gorgeous rendition of "Dancing Queen" – which has become a staple in her live set – Annika featured in a BBC Radio 4 documentary about ABBA and the 50th anniversary of their Eurovision win.
Finding joy in creating songs which feel like a warm hug after a day outside in the cold, Annika is committed to taking her time when it comes to developing her art and forging a connection with her audience. With her first headline dates happening next month at home in Ireland, Annika says "to be able to play any part in helping a person feel, experience or understand their current state is such a special thing." | 
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