Anika Berry is a Trinidadian artist who discovered her passion for performing at a young age. She was a member of her high school choir, where she was trained in singing. She then began performing in pageants, musicals, and plays. In 2019, Anika Berry released her first single “Romance” and her first collaboration “Thief a Wine.” As if her musical success isn’t enough, Anika is also a Registered Nurse with big plans musically. She hopes to use her platform as a musician to open a health institution in Trinidad and Tobago.
Her debut single “Romance” kicks off with acoustic guitar and maraca background instrumentals paired with a low key beat. With her delicate voice singing in an R&B style, Anika Berry clearly has intrinsic vocal talents. The general feeling you get from the song’s melody is laid back and romantic. Lyrically, Anika Berry sings about the struggles of her love interest showing her less attention as their relationship progresses. She brings attention to how he spends more time with his friends than he does with her. The idea of “Romance” is to bring attention to her need for affection and love to be proved. Many fans will be able to easily relate to the lyrics of “Romance,” and it will help some people realize how they deserve to be treated.
Listen to "Romance" here.
Welcome to BuzzMusic Anika Berry! “Romance” has both a catchy melody and easily relatable lyrics. Can you elaborate on the message behind your lyrics?
I poured my heart into Romance and when people listen to my song I want people to feel the emotion I put into it. The feeling of being in a loveless relationship or a struggling relationship. Romance is dedicated for the people who can’t speak up to their loved one to tell them their wants and desires. The message is, show your loved one how much they mean to you. Hold their hand. Make them feel loved at all times. Love is endless as long as two individuals are willing to communicate. Pay attention to the signs. You truly never know what you have until it’s gone. Don’t respond too late.
As an artist, you plan to use your platform to open a health institution in Trinidad and Tobago. How did you come up with this plan, and why is it important to you?
I followed in the footsteps of my Mother and established my career as a nurse in 2018. In 2019 my Grandfather who lives in Trinidad fell ill. Finding immediate access to proper health care was difficult and costly for him and my family. He needed help in a timely manner and the wait in the hospital was excessive. Living overseas makes staying on top of his health challenging. Thankfully, my Grandfather overcame his illness. I think it’s important for everyone to have easy access to health care. I aspire to establish an institution that aids in giving back to the community whilst promoting healthcare to ensure a long wholesome life.
How has growing up in a Trinidadian household inspired your musical style and career?
Growing up in a Trinidadian household I was influenced by the rich culture and sounds of calypso, Kaiso, parang, Extempo, and of course Soca. My Mother played Tunes from The Mighty Sparrow, Lord Kitchener, Byron Lee, etc, that rang throughout my house on an early Sunday morning. Tanty, my grandmother, would be in the kitchen cooking a sweet pot of Pelau and we would sing the whole day. Then Monday morning it was back to school where I sang Classical songs in my high school Choir. I was very Diversified in my youth. And I appreciate every genre of music. I try to incorporate a little bit of everything into my music.
Growing up you had a vast amount of musical and performance experiences. How have these experiences helped you grow and evolve as an artist?
Before becoming an artist I was your typical pageant girl and actress. I performed in various musicals like, “Hairspray”. I won 1st place in a pageant where I took the Title as Ms.Caribbean. I obtained professional lessons for stage presence, vocal, dance, and acting. These many experiences go hand in hand and molded me into the artist I am today. I’m thankful for those opportunities. And when it comes to nursing, these experiences give me the confidence to make a difference in saving lives through medicine and music.