Biography
Anya Randall Nebel's journey into music is one of passion, resilience, and boundless creativity.
Born in Baltimore and raised in a home filled with the eclectic sounds of Patsy Cline, Motown, protest songs, and her father’s cousin’s doo-wop group, The Orioles, Anya was destined for a life of music. From the moment she saw Rita Moreno in West Side Story at just five years old, she knew she wanted to perform. Inspired by legendary women of color like Dorothy Dandridge, Lena Horne, and Billie Holiday, Anya’s mission has always been to break barriers and make space for herself in the arts.
As a classically trained soprano, Anya’s vocal range and emotional depth allow her to sing across genres—from blues and jazz to R&B, rock, and even EDM. “I can sing the phonebook,” she often says, a testament to her ability to infuse any piece with wisdom, heart, and storytelling.
Over a career spanning 40-plus years, she’s done it all: performed nationally and internationally, directed, produced, and captivated audiences with her emotionally intelligent performances. She understands that music isn’t just sound—it’s the art of storytelling.
A pivotal figure in her life was her best friend, Todd Van Hackett, a relentless protector and source of inspiration. His death in 1982 from AIDS complications left an indelible mark on Anya, and his spirit continues to guide her. His legacy of love and resilience is present in every note she sings, in every story she tells on stage.
In December 2023, Anya took a bold leap into the music world with her EP RANDOM, a dance-heavy EDM exploration that marked her official entry into recorded music. This was followed by her album Bacharach Reimagined: The Songs of Burt Bacharach, released on September 12, 2024. Produced by Grammy Award winners Jarreau Williams and Conrad Osipowicz, the album was a deeply personal project for Anya, serving as a love letter to one of her greatest musical influences. The successful album release party, full of energy and celebration, was a testament to her ability to reimagine classic songs with a modern, genre-bending twist.
Anya’s creative process is grounded in thoughtfulness and purpose. For her, every song must tell a story and create a vivid vision for the listener. "I chose Burt Bacharach for that very reason—he's a storyteller. I collaborate with people I trust, who are honest and can bring authenticity to the music." She loves to work with artists who push her to explore new territories, from vocalists and rappers she discovered on Fiverr, to industry veterans who share her commitment to artistic integrity.
Looking ahead, Anya is far from done. As an empty nester approaching her 59th birthday in January, she is more determined than ever to spread her storytelling to new heights. She’s building her fanbase, with her sights set on touring Europe, where she believes Black artists and their music are truly appreciated. But she’s not stopping there—Anya is already working on her next album, envisioning an intimate trio setting to reinterpret the songs of her life and unearth obscure gems with fresh, innovative arrangements.
"I am in love with this 58-year-old woman," she says proudly. "I’ve learned so much, and now it’s time to give it all." With her unmatched voice, her powerful vision, and her relentless drive to connect through music, Anya Randall Nebel is an artist who refuses to be forgotten. She is here to stay, reinventing classics, blending genres, and always pushing the boundaries of what it means to tell a story through song.
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Videos
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Discography
Random
EP
2023-12-16
Burt Bacharach: Reimagined
Album
2024-09-13
Christmas
Album
2024-12-12
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Photos
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