From writing cinematic pop songs to launching a socially conscious children’s brand, Annabel Gutherz is doing more than just making noise — she’s making a difference. Her latest single, “Dance Around It,” explores the emotional complexities of love, showcasing music’s ability to heal and connect. But her talent for storytelling extends far beyond songwriting. What started as a high school initiative has since evolved into Annie’s Pajammies, her purpose-driven brand that supports education and empowers children through stories and imagination. Read the full story to learn more about Annabel Gutherz and how she takes on the musical and literary realms of writing.

Where are you based?
I’m based in the beautiful city of Montreal, where the bagels are warm (and extremely glutenous for anyone with sensitivities, haha), the seasons are dramatic, and the creative charm is aboundant!

What inspired you to take charge and follow the path into the music industry?
Music has always been the language of my heart. From a very young age, I found comfort, connection, and catharsis in song. I fostered those profound feelings through songwriting, which is at the intersection of my passions, including storytelling and music. It wasn’t a decision as much as a deep calling I couldn’t ignore. With encouragement from my family and dedicating myself to my craft, I followed that calling and haven’t looked back!

Who are some of your biggest musical influences, and how would you describe your own musical style?
I’ve been deeply inspired by the poetic storytelling of Joni Mitchell, the emotional depth of Gracie Abrams, and the sonic richness of Fleetwood Mac. I’d describe my music as cinematic pop-rock—lyric-driven, emotionally expressive and diaristic, and sonically entwined with doses of sunshine (and perhaps a little drama!).

Congratulations on the release of “Dance Around It.” Can you take us back to the moment that inspired this song?
Thank you so much! “Dance Around It” was born on the Pacific Coast Highway while I was on my way to Malibu. One of my brilliant producers, Mikal Blue, had sent me a chord progression he had been exploring on guitar, and the concept and story for “Dance Around It” immediately emerged. I whipped out my Voice Memo app and recorded the pre-chorus so as not to lose the ineffable magic of the moment.

If you had to describe the emotional journey of “Dance Around It” in one word, what would it be and why?
Uneasy. I hope this song encapsulates the paradox of love—the beauty of its joy and the ache of its uncertainty.

When writing songs, do you usually start with lyrics, melody, or a specific emotion?
It really depends on the day, but almost always, it begins with an emotion that needs a voice and a story that needs a vehicle. Once that’s been established, I browse Splice to find a sample or chord progression that feels resonant and reflective of what it is I want to share! I then embark upon a topline and take it from there!

Your music often delves into deep emotional themes. How do you balance vulnerability and storytelling in your songwriting?
I think vulnerability is the heartbeat of good storytelling. I try to write honestly and openly but through a poetic lens that allows listeners to see themselves in the song. It’s a delicate dance—between personal truth and universal connection.

Your music was recently featured on CBS during Big Ten College Football broadcasts. What was it like hearing your work on such a large platform?
Surreal and humbling, to say the least! I’ll always cherish hearing my songs against the backdrop of such excitement and energy—it gave the music a whole new life I couldn’t have envisioned. I’m deeply grateful for those opportunities and to be a part of such riveting moments!

We heard that you are the author and founder of Annie’s Pajammies. What inspired you to create Annie’s Pajammies? Was there a specific moment that sparked the idea?
Yes! I think the genesis of Annie’s Pajammies can be traced back to Dr. Tererai Trent. I had the opportunity to organize an event at my high school called Woman of the World, where I invited Dr. Trent to speak with the students and share her remarkable story. I was so inspired by her effervescent spirit, her unwavering belief in and commitment to her dreams, and her desire to give back by facilitating access to quality education. I was galvanized to effect positive social change myself, and began reflecting on how I could go about doing so in a tangible and measurable way I felt passionate about.

Annie’s Pajammies was born from a deep love for storytelling and pajamas and a desire to offer children comfort, wonder, and knowledge at bedtime, all while making an impact on the world at large. The original Annie’s Pajammies concept strived to build intercultural competence through experiential learning through the sale of a children’s picture book series sold in conjunction with a corresponding line of pajamas, with a portion of the proceeds from every unit sold being donated to an education-based charity. We’ve since developed our concept to expand the scope of our impact and the breadth of our reach, and I’m so excited to share more soon!

What impact do you hope the books will have on young readers beyond just entertainment?
I hope the series inspires young readers to dream bigger — beyond their perceived limitations — feel empowered by their unique qualities, and believe in the potential not just within us but around us. I also hope it inspires readers to love and care more deeply about their neighbors and the world at large. Annie learns something new about herself in every story — the value of compassion, curiosity, and creativity — as much as she does about culture, history, geography, and more! I hope children recognize those same qualities in themselves and feel both their hearts and minds are nourished!

What message do you hope children take away from Annie’s Pajammies and her Magical Rainbow Ribbons?
In “Annie’s Pajammies and her Magical Rainbow Ribbons,” I hope a message children take away is how much beauty lies within them and around them.

Moreover, as an ambassador for the TTI Foundation, what does your role involve, and why is this cause personally meaningful to you?
Being an ambassador for the TTI Foundation is both a privilege and a responsibility I hold dear. The foundation focuses on leading the development and growth of an improved education system supported by socially engaged business models that boost local economies while improving community livelihoods. I strive to help raise awareness, support fundraising efforts, and contribute to initiatives that amplify their mission. As someone who has benefitted from an education steeped in the arts, I believe every child deserves the tools and encouragement to learn, dream, and thrive — regardless of where they’re born.

What do you think are the biggest barriers to education for children worldwide, and how can initiatives like yours help address them?
Some of the biggest barriers include systemic poverty, limited access to schools or learning materials, political instability, and the undervaluing of education in marginalized communities. Initiatives like Annie’s Pajammies — partnering with organizations like TTI — can help by combining storytelling with action. I believe that when we empower young learners with stories and tangible support, we plant seeds for long-term, meaningful change.

What are your thoughts on Trump dismantling the Federal Department of Education?
I believe education is a cornerstone of democracy, and personal, and societal growth. Dismantling structures that protect and fund equitable access to learning could have devastating consequences, especially for underserved communities. I think no matter where we live, we need to be championing quality education, and everyone’s right to learn in safe, organized, and systematic environments.

Are there any upcoming projects you would like to share?
Absolutely! I’m currently working on my sophomore album, which has been such a heart-expanding journey. A new and improved Annie’s Pajammies is in the works, and more musical surprises are on the way!

It has been a crazy past few years, and we suspect at least four more. How have you been staying positive?
By creating, connecting, and keeping close to the people I love. I’ve found that leaning into gratitude and purpose — even for the tiniest things — can help transform your whole perspective. Plus, dancing in the kitchen and indulging in sweet treats help, too!

What is your motto in life?
It may sound trite, but “Lead with love” is a motto I tend to live by!

To learn more about Annabel Gutherz, please follow the links below:
Annabel Gutherz
Instagram: @annabelgutherz
TikTok: @annabelgutherz
Spotify: Annabel Gutherz
YouTube: @annabelgutherz

Annabel Gutherz - Pop-Rock to Pajamas