Based in Boston, Massachusetts, Anya Gupta is an emerging queer singer-songwriter. Following the release of 2021 EP, i (don’t) know you, as well as a string of singles including “gale” and “jackie,” Gupta recently released “maya’s song,” a wistful ballad dedicated to a best friend who unexpectedly passed away.
Exploring love, grief, and memories shared together, “maya’s song” is defined by graceful harmonies, acoustic guitar, and majestic synths while letting Anya’s voice shine. Talking about loss is something that can be incredibly vulnerable, but the stripped production allows the lyrics to be in the spotlight. While the topic is sorrowful, Gupta’s lyrics evoke feelings of comfort, love, and nostalgia. The song is accompanied by a music video featuring moments of the two best friends together. Elevating the emotion impact of the song, the everyday moments show the true friendship that the two of them had.
“Got the keys to the car so you could come over
We’d yell at the bars and you’d hold me closer
Now I’m on a train back to New York
The city feels lonely without you to hold“
Anya first gained a following through her TikTok mashups of LGBT+ songs, including “Girls” by Girl in Red, “Sweater Weather” by The Neighborhood, and “Sofia” by Clairo. Coming across her content, I was immediately drawn in by her sweet, soft voice. Taking inspiration from current queer songwriters like Phoebe Bridgers, Clairo, and Chappell Roan, Gupta takes this genre and makes it her own. Recent singles “American Spirit” and “gale” are both powerful songs that are helping her make a name for herself in the indie pop world. “maya’s song,” however, shows the more vulnerable side of her songwriting.
“maya’s song” is a wonderful, highly emotional track that shines a light on the feelings that come with losing a dear friend. All money earned from the track will be donated to a fund in honor of Maya to help support her family. Stream “maya’s song” and more by Anya Gupta below.
nina
Born and raised in Los Angeles and now studying music industry at Berklee College of Music in Boston, you can find her going to a concert, crocheting, playing guitar, or reading a book (that is probably about music).
daybreak 