Annika Chambers facts for kids

Annika Shattrelle Chambers (born August 7, 1985) is an American soul blues singer and songwriter. She is known for her powerful voice. Annika has released three albums during her career.

In 2019, she won a special award. This was the 'Soul Blues Female Artist of the Year' at the Blues Music Awards. Her second album, Wild & Free, was very popular. It reached number 7 on the Billboard Blues Albums Chart. Her third album, Kiss My Sass, came out in August 2019.

Annika Chambers' Life and Music

Early Life and Inspiration

Annika Chambers was born in Houston, Texas, in the United States. From a young age, she loved to sing. She often sang in church. Annika was inspired by many great gospel singers. These included Yolanda Adams, Shirley Caesar, and Dottie Peoples. She also admired the famous singer Whitney Houston.

Time in the Army

Annika joined the United States Army. She served for over seven years. During her time in the army, she had a special chance to sing. She was asked to sing the National Anthem at a ceremony. This led to her performing for soldiers. She traveled with a band to places like Kosovo and Iraq.

Starting Her Music Career

In 2011, Annika returned to Houston. She then formed her own band. It was called Annika Chambers and The House Rules Band. In 2012, her band entered the International Blues Challenge. Even though they didn't win, Annika's singing talent was noticed. Two of the judges were very impressed.

She recorded some songs with famous musicians. These included Larry Fulcher and Richard Cagle. These songs became her first album. It was called Making My Mark (2014). This album was credited to Annika Chambers & the Houston All-Stars. It reached number 16 on the Living Blues chart. In 2015, Annika was nominated for a Blues Music Award. This was for 'Best New Artist Debut'.

After this early success, Annika took a short break from her music career.

Later Albums and Awards

Her second album, Wild & Free (2016), was very successful. It reached number 7 on the Billboard Blues Albums Chart. On this album, Annika worked with talented musicians. They included guitarist Johnny Lee Schell and keyboard player Mike Finnigan. Bassist Larry Fulcher and drummer Tony Braunagel also played. The album also featured guest artist Jon Cleary.

Wild & Free had twelve songs. One was Annika's own song called "Reality". She also covered Katie Melua's song "Piece by Piece". After this, Annika performed at many music festivals. She played in South America, Europe, and the US. Some US festivals included the Minnesota Bayfront Blues Festival and the Las Vegas Blues Bender. In 2018, she was nominated for another Blues Music Award.

In 2019, Annika Chambers won a Blues Music Award. She was named 'Soul Blues Female Artist of the Year'. Her third album, Kiss My Sass, was released on August 9, 2019. On December 7, 2019, she performed at the Bradenton Blues Festival.

Discography

Albums

See also

• List of soul-blues musicians