If you haven’t yet heard of Annie Stokes, you are missing out on some of the best music you’ll ever come across. The americana singer/songwriter and folk lyricist writes music that moves her. “I like a hook, and I like a song that dredges up specific memories and feelings, rather than generic rushes of serotonin,” she says of her songwriting style. “From the beginning, I would get inspired by snippets of conversations I would hear, or certain smells, or little moments.”
Her newest song “Nervous System” is a hauntingly beautiful ballad that showcases her exceptional vocal talent and introspective songwriting style. The track begins with a gentle guitar melody that sets almost a melancholic tone, as her voice enters with a soft, delicate timbre that immediately captures the listener’s attention.
Lyrically, “Nervous System” explores the complicated nature of human emotion and the impact it has on our lives. Her lyrics are poignant and relevant as she reflects on the ways in which our emotions can sometimes overwhelm us, leaving us feeling vulnerable and exposed. It’s relatable and heartfelt, conveying a sense of vulnerability and authenticity that’s truly compelling.
As the song progresses, the instrumentation gradually builds in intensity, adding layers of depth and emotion to the already powerful lyrics. The addition of strings and percussion creates a rich, full-bodied sound that perfectly complements her vocals, culminating in a stirring crescendo that is both uplifting and cathartic.
For Annie, “Nervous System” is about how motherhood changed her perspective on life and her nervous system. Originally called “Scrambler” and one that didn’t make the cut for a previous album, she wrote the song after having a panic attack on the Scrambler at the county fair.
“I revisited this song while recording this EP and updated the lyrics to reflect my current journey as a mother of two, trying not to self-medicate away the beautiful stress of raising humans, trying to make friends with and glean wisdom from the panic attacks that sometimes paralyze me, and trying to be honest with the people in my life about my limitations,” she shares.
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