Multitalented artist, model and philanthropist Aneesa Sheikh, winner of Miss Michigan Teen USA 2020, believes in the therapeutic benefits of music. A singer, songwriter, musician, and producer, she launched the non-profit organization Music4M.I.R.A.C.L.E. (Music Inspires, Reaches, Accepts, Captures, Loves, Equally) to spread music therapy and hope to people experiencing a medical crisis.
Aneesa’s songs and videos, most notably “Who’s Gonna Stop Me”, “Bad Thing”, “New Normal”, and “Tough Times”, are timely anthems to uplift everyone who hears them.
In THIS INTERVIEW we spoke with Aneesa Sheikh about why she created Music4M.I.R.A.C.L.E., her biggest blessing, and how she was affected by the challenges of the year 2020!
Congratulations on your hit music and winning Miss Michigan Teen USA 2020, Aneesa! What can we expect from you here in 2021?
I have so much in store this year! I cannot wait to share with everyone the projects I have been diligently working on. One can expect new music, a new sound, modeling campaigns, and collaborations with other artists! I can’t wait!
Who were the artists you listen to the most, that inspired you and your music?
I am constantly listening to new artists, but I’d say Jewel has inspired my music the most.
What has been your favorite song that you have written and released so far?
My song “Who’s Gonna Stop Me (Acoustic Version)” has been my absolute favorite song that I’ve released. I honestly love this song. From the lyrics to my vocals, everything about this song has a much more mature approach and my fans will see growth in my music with this song. I wanted to write a song that could get a crowd going and is an anthem for girls to pursue their dreams without letting anyone stand in the way. I think I did just that with this song!
How would you summarize your experiences last year?
2020 was a year of growth. Being Miss Michigan Teen USA, finishing high school, starting college, releasing music, and modeling exposed me to experiences and lessons that enabled personal growth and learning more life lessons this past year than any other, thus far. Living out these experiences with the pandemic was unique and challenging at times, but also accomplishing them made everything much more special.
Which of your blessings would you say was the biggest?
I am blessed to be able to live out my dreams, day in and day out, through my music and career ventures. I am blessed with amazing opportunities and experiences at such a young age. I never take them for granted because it all can be taken away in the blink of an eye. I am grateful for everything.
What inspired you to create MUSIC4M.I.R.A.C.L.E.?
Singing for my father at his nursing home inspired me to start this nonprofit. My music was consistent in his life when his health was not. It was a form of entertainment that connected us and improved his health through his speech therapy.
What are a few ways that your non-profit has helped others throughout the pandemic?
My nonprofit has been able to accomplish connecting patients at hospitals and medical centers via Zoom. During the pandemic when in-person visitations were not allowed and restrictions were in place, music gave patients company and entertainment when they were lonely, vulnerable, and scared.
Where were you when you learned about COVID-19 and how did you respond?
I was at my sister’s wedding in Miami. After the wedding, my other sister and I changed our flight and left sooner than expected so we could get back home to Michigan. I stayed in Michigan for two weeks before driving down to my family’s house in Kentucky. I stayed there for four months before heading back to Michigan. I actually enjoyed being with two of my siblings and my mom.
The one sad part was that I could not visit my father in person anymore and still have not seen him in person except through a window. My family and I speak to him through Zoom almost every day which is really helpful for us all.
Did 2020 cause you to value your life and the lives of others more than you did already?
2020 did teach me to value life more and the lives of others. Having close friends affected by the virus and hearing about their loved ones being affected made me have many emotions that in return helped me realize how valuable life is and not to take anything for granted. |THIS.
[By Mr. Joe Walker]
