Today we’d like to introduce you to Anissa Sutton
Hi Anissa, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
Thank you so much for your interest in my journey and work! It means a lot to me to share my experiences and passions with you. Here’s a bit about my background and the various projects I’m involved in:
Anissa Boudjaoui Sutton: A Journey in Arts and Entrepreneurship
I am Anissa Boudjaoui Sutton, the proud founder and Editor-in-Chief of Pump It Up Magazine. Born and nurtured in picturesque France, my early exposure to the arts sparked a lifelong passion that has guided my professional journey as an entrepreneur devoted to uplifting independent artists and enriching lives through media.
Musical Beginnings: Lady Aneessa & Editions L.A.
My musical career began as Lady Aneessa and Anya Rose, where I first expressed my artistic voice. One of my initial ventures was the music video for “Jamais,” a project that marked the beginning of my public artistic endeavors. This passion for music led me to launch my first French magazine, Delit Music Mag, and subsequently, Music Umbrella Magazine, both of which have offered platforms for artists to shine since 2015.
Anya Rose: A Dance Music Voyage
From 2008 to 2012, I embarked on an ambitious dance project under the alias Anya Rose. This period was marked by intense creativity, producing multiple albums, singles, and EPs, in collaboration with a host of talented DJs. The project was a celebration of my versatility and innovative spirit within the dance music genre, notably with the single “Everybody,” which achieved recognition across Asia and the United States.
Editions L.A.: Fostering Independent Talent
In 2004, I founded Editions L.A. in Paris, a company named after my artist persona, launching with projects like “L.A. Project” and “LAPD: Lady Aneessa Project Dancefloor.” Editions L.A. has grown to encompass a broad range of services including music distribution, production, branding, and digital marketing, all dedicated to spotlighting and supporting independent talent.
Pump It Up Magazine: Celebrating Voices
Launched in 2013, Pump It Up Magazine began as an online entity, later expanding to digital and print formats. As its founder, I introduced the magazine at MIDEM Cannes in 2016, celebrating it as a platform to elevate the voices in the music industry. The magazine covers diverse topics such as wellness, mental health, fitness, beauty, fashion, and travel, serving a growing readership of over 20,000 subscribers.
The Sound of L.A. and Continued Innovations
In 2017, a significant year marked by my move to Los Angeles and marriage to Michael B. Sutton, we co-founded The Sound of L.A. record label. Here, we’ve continued to produce music that resonates, including tracks like “Just To Be With You.” Our label not only focuses on music production but also provides comprehensive marketing tools for independent artists.
Empowering Future Generations
My commitment extends beyond the music and publishing industries. As a member of the advisory board for the Women Songwriters Hall of Fame and Women of True Grit, I am dedicated to empowering women across various sectors. Additionally, through our project Your Music Consultant, Michael and I offer a range of marketing tools and strategies to support independent artists and labels.
Language and Learning
Recognizing the importance of language, Michael and I have also developed resources for learning English and French, providing books, audiobooks, and videos through our Bilingual Bookstore. These tools are designed to aid families and learners in achieving linguistic proficiency in a fun and engaging manner.
Thank you for joining me on this exciting journey. With your continued support, I am eager to further inspire and empower the global creative community.
Warm regards,
Anissa Boudjaoui Sutton
Founder and Editor-in-Chief, Pump It Up Magazine
Co-Founder, The Sound of L.A.
Director, Editions L.A.
Visit us at:
http://www.aneessa.com
http://www.kpiuradio.com
http://www.thesoundofla.com
http://www.bilingualbookstore.com
http://www.yourmusicconsultant.com
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
As much as I would love to say that my journey has been smooth, it has been anything but. The road to where I am today has been paved with numerous obstacles and challenges, each shaping me into the resilient entrepreneur I am now.
Navigating the Music Industry
When I first began my musical career as Lady Aneessa and Anya Rose, the music industry was vastly different from what it is today. Breaking through as an independent artist was incredibly challenging. There were moments of doubt and numerous rejections. However, these experiences taught me perseverance and the importance of staying true to my artistic vision.
Launching Editions L.A.
Founding Editions L.A. in 2004 came with its own set of hurdles. Establishing a brand and gaining recognition in a competitive market required a tremendous amount of dedication and hard work. I faced the challenge of building a network from the ground up and learning the intricacies of music distribution and digital marketing on my own.
Creating and Sustaining Pump It Up Magazine
Launching Pump It Up Magazine in 2013 was both exciting and daunting. Transitioning from an online magazine to a digital and print format demanded significant resources and strategic planning. One of the toughest challenges was ensuring consistent, high-quality content that resonated with our growing readership. The pressure to maintain relevance in the fast-paced world of media required constant innovation and adaptability.
Relocating and Rebranding
The move to Los Angeles in 2017 was a major transition. While it was a pivotal moment in my personal and professional life, it was also fraught with challenges. Adjusting to a new environment, building a new network, and rebranding our label as The Sound of L.A. demanded immense effort and resilience. Collaborating with my husband, Michael B. Sutton, brought its own dynamics, blending personal life with professional commitments.
Empowering Independent Artists
One of the ongoing challenges has been finding effective ways to empower and support independent artists. Through projects like Your Music Consultant, we strive to provide valuable marketing tools and strategies. However, navigating the constantly evolving landscape of the music industry means we must continually adapt our approaches to meet the needs of artists in a digital age.
Balancing Multiple Roles
Juggling multiple roles as the founder of Editions L.A., Pump It Up Magazine, and co-founder of The Sound of L.A. has been challenging. Each role demands significant time and energy, and striking a balance between these commitments while maintaining the quality of work has been a constant struggle.
Language and Learning Initiatives
Developing resources for learning English and French through our Bilingual Bookstore has been a fulfilling yet challenging endeavor. Creating engaging and effective learning materials requires a deep understanding of language pedagogy and a commitment to educational excellence.
Despite these obstacles, each challenge has been an opportunity for growth and learning. The support from my team, my husband, and our incredible community has been invaluable in overcoming these hurdles. I am grateful for every experience, as they have all contributed to my journey and the accomplishments we celebrate today.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
What are you known for?
I am known for “pumping up” the lives of my readers through Pump It Up Magazine. Additionally, I am recognized for my music and for helping bands, brands, and businesses reach new heights. Through my work with my husband, Michael B. Sutton (former Motown Hit Maker producer), and our ventures Editions L.A., The Sound of L.A., and Your Music Consultant, I provide comprehensive support to independent artists and entrepreneurs.
What are you most proud of?
I am most proud of launching Pump It Up Magazine and seeing it grow into a beloved source of inspiration for over 20,000 subscribers. Additionally, I am proud of the success of our music, particularly the tracks that made it to the top 5 most added songs on Billboard’s Smooth Jazz charts, such as “Back to Life,” “Saint-Etienne,” and “Just To Be With You.”
What sets you apart from others?
What sets me apart is my unwavering passion for the arts and my dedication to empowering independent artists and entrepreneurs. I combine creativity with strategic business acumen, creating platforms and resources that genuinely make a difference. My ability to innovate and adapt in the ever-changing landscape of the music and media industries is a key differentiator, along with my commitment to providing personalized support to help others achieve their full potential.
My move from France to America
Originally from France, I made a significant move to Los Angeles in 2017. This transition marked a new chapter in both my personal and professional life. Relocating to America allowed me to immerse myself in a vibrant entertainment scene, build a new network, and collaborate closely with my husband, Michael B. Sutton. The move has been an incredible experience, opening up numerous opportunities to expand our projects and reach a broader audience.
Do you have any advice for those just starting out?
Starting out can be both exciting and challenging, but trust me, it’s a journey worth taking. Here’s some advice to help you along the way:
1. Follow Your Calling:
Your calling is your superpower. It’s what will keep you going when things get tough. Dive deep into what you love and let that passion shine through in everything you do. Remember: love what you do and do what you love.
2. Have Faith:
Believe in yourself and in a higher power. Faith can be a guiding light in your journey. Trust in God and the path that is laid out for you. When times are tough, faith can provide the strength and resilience you need to keep moving forward.
3. Prioritize Self-Care and Mental Health:
Your well-being is crucial. Make time for self-care and prioritize your mental health. Whether it’s through meditation, exercise, or spending time with loved ones, taking care of yourself will help you stay balanced and focused.
4. Keep Learning and Growing:
Stay curious and always be open to learning new skills. Embrace self-development and seek out opportunities to grow. The more you invest in yourself, the more you’ll be able to achieve.
5. Face Challenges Head-On:
Challenges are part of the journey. Don’t let them discourage you. Instead, see them as opportunities to grow and learn. Every setback is a setup for a comeback.
6. Invest in Quality:
Whether it’s your music, your brand, or your business, always strive for quality. High standards will set you apart and help you build a reputation for excellence.
7. Harness the Power of Digital:
In today’s digital age, use social media and online tools to your advantage. Promote your work, connect with your audience, and stay engaged. The internet is a powerful platform – use it wisely.
8. Balance Creativity and Business:
It’s important to balance your creative passions with smart business practices. Understand the business side of your industry, from marketing to finances. This balance will help you sustain your career in the long run.
9. Seek Feedback:
Don’t be afraid to ask for feedback. Constructive criticism can be incredibly valuable. Learn from it and use it to improve your work. Growth comes from being open to new perspectives.
10. Stay Persistent:
Success doesn’t happen overnight. Stay persistent, keep pushing forward, and don’t give up. Your hard work will pay off, even if it takes time.
Reflecting on My Journey:
When I started out, I wish I had understood the importance of balancing creativity with self-care and mental health. Taking care of yourself is just as important as pursuing your dreams.
Remember, every step you take is part of your unique journey. Stay passionate, stay curious, and most importantly, stay true to yourself. You’ve got this!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.pumpitupmagazine.com/
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/pumpitupmagazine
- Facebook: https://facebook.com/pumpitupmagazine
- Twitter: https://x.com/pumpitupmag
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@PumpItUpMagazine
Image Credits
Credit: Anissa Boudjaoui Sutton – Editions L.A.
