Today we’d like to introduce you to Anslee Connell.
Hi Anslee, We are so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I started singing in church and at school at a very early age. I grew up singing in choirs and performances from a musical family. When I was in middle school, my dad, a lifelong bass and saxophone player, decided to put on a music festival in our backyard once a year. It was called the Fireant Blues Fest, a small town (Statesboro, GA) nod to all the festivals he has attended throughout his lifetime. He knew I wanted to sing at “Fireant” and surprised me with the opportunity when I was about 14. I was nervous, but my heart knew this was a big chance for me. From there, I started singing at school football games, was featured in my church’s music programs as a soloist, and even sang for weddings and the university in my hometown. I participated in some college choirs and performances from there, but I always wanted a bigger stage. When a friend of mine moved to Austin, she told me about the vibrant music scene here, and I couldn’t wait to move here! When I landed, I was too afraid to join or start a band, but I eventually remembered that my calling was to sing. It took some time to gain my footing, and I took a little break during the pandemic, but I couldn’t be happier with where I am today!
We all face challenges, but looking back, would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Over time, I have encountered many obstacles, though most are self-imposed. The mind is extraordinary — it can make or break you. Having major stage fright and sometimes crippling self-doubt has been the biggest challenge of all, and it’s something I wrestle with still today. I win the fight now, though, thankfully!
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. What can you tell our readers who might need to be more familiar with what you do?
I’m a Jazz and R&B singer and songwriter. I am most proud of my two releases: “Paper Doll,” my first album, and “A Savannah Red Family & Friends Christmas!” my most recent release that I made with my family and some of my friends. My soulful sound and thought-provoking lyrics (on some songs, others are light and purely entertaining) set me apart from others, as well as my stage presence and ability to connect with my audience as if we were all great friends.
Are there any important lessons you’ve learned that you can share with us?
The most important lesson I’ve learned is to keep showing up. Even if I fail, I’m rejected, even if I’m having an off night, even if no one shows up — I show up. I keep going. I keep doing me. Everything else will fall into place.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.savannahredmusic.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/savannahred
- Facebook: www.fb.com/savannahredmusic
- Youtube: www.youtube.com/@savannahredmusic512
- SoundCloud: https://on.soundcloud.com/QeueC
- Other: https://savannahredmusic.bandcamp.com/
Image Credits
Farsh Farr, Jessica Monnich-Wright
