This is Anna Karney, and you see throughout her storied music career she has performed across the country and released an incredible catalog of chart-topping and critically acclaimed music. You learn that always keeping her mind on social justice and positive messages, KARNEY explores a variety of instrumental configurations and a broad range of energy on her new full-length album ONE TRUE SONG, released on July 18, 2025.
You hear ONE TRUE SONG features several prominent Bay Area musicians, together showcasing an extraordinary blend of soulful folk rock and alternative singer/songwriter acoustic arrangements, while rock-steady bass lines wind through an eclectic range of driving and groovy rhythms. You note James Deprato (Chuck Prophet Band) plays electric and acoustic guitar and is the featured lead player across the album. You also recognize guitarist Erik Smyth (Mo’Fessionals), this is Erik’s third album with KARNEY, and he also accompanies her live as The Karney Acoustic Duo.
You find ONE TRUE SONG features bassists Kevin White (Chuck Prophet Band) and Uriah Duffy (Fantastic Negrito, Whitesnake), drummer and percussionist Kyle Capistra (Mercy and the Heartbeats), Phillip Bennet (Jefferson Starship) on Hammond organ and keys, and KARNEY band newcomers violinist Anthony Blea (John Santos Sextet) and Faisal Sedan (The Qadim Ensemble) on darbuka drum, Arabic riq, and frame drum. You understand it was an overwhelming experience for KARNEY to work with so many creative and talented musicians, in addition to the outstanding collaborative chemistry shared with her co-producer Michael Rosen (Rancid, Tesla).
You read that everyone poured their hearts into the music and achieved heights far beyond anything she could have ever imagined. You discover that all the songs were composed by KARNEY on acoustic guitar, staying true to her authentic singer/songwriter style, while she also appreciates the intensity and vigor of her full, energetic band. From the gentle sound of “Suspended” to the driving rhythms of “Gave My Guitar Away” and “Out of Body,” KARNEY lets her imagination go where it wants without trying to adhere to any particular genre.
You hear musical influences that can be heard throughout the album, including Woody Guthrie, The Pretenders, and Pharoah Sanders, as KARNEY explores mystical topics like Eos, the Greek sun goddess, or on her unvarnished social justice song “Freedom Summer.” You note Anna Karney’s lyrical content offers an impassioned and straightforward approach to many of the issues facing people today, and her influences include Bob Dylan, Neil Young, Patti Smith, John Lennon, Sheryl Crow, Chrissie Hynde, and Joni Mitchell.
You see, Anna Karney has had a diverse musical career, having spent many years composing music for games such as Star Wars Galaxies, Monkey Island IV, Armed and Dangerous, several SimCity titles, Metal Dungeon, Death Jr., and many more. You learn she received the esteemed “Dreamcatcher” Award from the Visual and Performing Arts division of the San Francisco Unified School District and has scored ballet and modern dance pieces as an artist in residence at Mills College and San Francisco State University.
What first got you into music?
I think the moment I was aware of being able to make music, whether on the piano, or the recorder, I was making music. This is not too unusual for small children as they are always fascinated with making things. For me it probably began when I was about three years old.
How would you describe the music that you typically create?
Singer/songwriter based rock.It varies as to what type of rock it is, depending on the song itself.
What would you be doing right now if it weren’t for your music career?
I’m actually doing it. Since I am an independent artist, it is impossible to sustain myself through my songs. So after a twenty-five-year career as a composer for modern and ballet dance, fifteen years of making music and sounds for computer games and commercials, I am now a music teacher at a public high school, teaching guitar and directing choir.
If you could change anything about the industry, what would it be?
Have streaming services actually pay artists what they deserve.For music to be the actual product.
What are your top two favorite albums of all time? Why those albums?
Songs In The Key Of Life by Stevie Wonder is probably my all time favorite album. He’s a genius and writes such deep songs. The Beatles White Album. Creative, unconventional, ground-breaking.
What is one message you would give to your fans?
Don’t lose your inner sense of kindness. This message is in many of my songs. Music is a big part of how we hold on to our souls, when you are on your own, and when you are sharing it with others.
What is your current music project about?
They are conscious songs during troubled times.As an indie artist I enjoy a freedom that many artists don’t have. I can write my truth and experiment with stylistic expression. True human artistic freedom.
If you could have any superhero power, what would it be and why?
I would love to have the power to enlighten people to be their most confident, empathetic, humane selves.
What two nonessential items would you want if you were shipwrecked on a deserted island? An acoustic guitar and a footlocker full of strings.
What would be a good theme song for your life?
“I’m Still Here” by Stephen Sondheim. The lyrics start off with ‘Good times and bad times, I’ve seen them all and my dear, I’m still here’.
What makes you nostalgic?
Music makes me very nostalgic. That is one of the magical aspects of music, all the emotions it ignites.
What historical figure would you love to see in 21st-century life?
There are so many to choose from! But if I had to choose one, it would be Beethoven. Not only would I sit like a fly on the wall marveling at his process, I mean a composer of that level of genius and inventiveness in this modern age with AI and such – I can’t even imagine where he would take music now!