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Rising star Ananya shines a light on mental health with "Happy"

Jonnica Hill
Zimbabwean pop star Ananya is making a difference with her latest single "Happy"


Rising Zimbabwean pop star Ananya‘s latest single has just arrived, and the timing couldn’t

be more perfect. Released just ahead of World Mental Health Day, “Happy” captures the reality of happiness and sadness coexisting.


The delicate melody and introspective lyrics may remind you of Billie Eilish’s “What Was I Made For,” as the song explores the idea that things are not always how they appear and that, for many, struggles lie hidden beneath a facade of happiness.


Feeling lost and uncertain led Ananya to question whether we truly feel joy in others’ happiness. Digging into that feeling, “Happy” came together, landing in a bittersweet in-between state, fuelled equally by positivity and melancholy.


The song's music video will be arriving on World Mental Health Day (October 10th) with proceeds benefiting Ananya’s non-profit organization, the Nani Wellness Project.


This is not the first time Ananya has used songwriting as part of her healing journey. This new single follows her previous release, “Emotions,” a high-energy pop anthem about letting go and moving on.


Since releasing her debut EP last year, Ananya has quickly become one to watch and is more than ready to take on the US pop market with her unique approach to sensational music and emotive storytelling.





Q&A With Ananya:

Q: “Releasing the music video on World Mental Health Day and raising funds to support the Nani Wellness Project is such a thoughtful idea. Can you tell us more about that decision?”


A: “It feels like a perfect coincidence that the release of this song coincided with Mental Health Awareness Month. I believe every month should highlight the importance of mental health. When I wrote this, I was in a particular headspace, and its meaning really hit home. I also recognize how fortunate I am to be able to speak about my feelings, and even when it's tough, I have music as an outlet. But it's crucial to acknowledge that many people don’t have the option to speak up or seek help. Back home in Zimbabwe, mental health is still a taboo subject, which is why this cause is so close to my heart.”


Q: “Any hints about the ‘Happy’ music video? What can we expect?”


A: ”This video creatively expresses the push and pull between genuine happiness and surface-level joy. It reflects the repetition of a feeling that refuses to fade, like trying to reach

somewhere or overcome something, but never quite getting there. It was essential to capture moments of true happiness, uncertainty, and that pivotal moment when the curtain drops, leaving the real emotion lingering.”



Find "Happy" & more new music on The Jam Archives playlist:


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