Now more than ever, it feels essential to have a support system in place. Whether it’s our friends, family, or a heartfelt song, it’s crucial to feel a sense of companionship during these times. Antje Schomaker, a German singer and songwriter, has a remarkable ability to connect with her listeners on a deep level.
Through her songs about heartbreak, gender inequality, and uplifting rhythms, Antje creates a space of support and understanding. Her soothing voice and warm personality make us feel at home, as if we’re receiving advice from a close friend.
Title had the opportunity to interview this emerging artist. The interview below is conducted in her native language, German, which is also the language she sings in. However, don’t let that discourage you from enjoying the delightful melodies of Antje Schomaker’s music. For our English readers, a brief summary of what Antje shared with us today can be found at the bottom of the interview.
At Title, we emphasize the significance of staying true to yourself, your art, and your identity. What would you say defines your True Identity?
I believe that one’s identity is constantly evolving. We identify with what we do, our sexuality, our gender, our role expectations, and the opinions we hold, which can change over time. Identity, I would say, is something fluid. Everything is always in flux. Right now, I identify with my role as a musician who wants to make the path a little easier for younger female musicians. However, tomorrow, something else might take center stage in my identity. No plan.
When did you first realize you wanted to pursue a career in music?
I’ve always made music, and I was always the one who got to leave French class to accompany other classes on the piano during music exams. That didn’t enhance my popularity in class (LOL), but it did foster the ease with which I’ve always made music and ultimately began my music career. There was never an alternative.
How has your music journey shaped you so far?
Everything I experience shapes me. Therefore, I would say that my musical journey has naturally molded my personality, and vice versa. I believe that, eventually, the hurdles bothered me less.
Has the city you grew up in influenced your music?
I grew up in a village in Niederrhein, where my creativity couldn’t really flourish. I always wanted to get away from there as quickly as possible. The real influence came later in Hamburg. Hamburg and what I experienced there definitely influenced my music.
In your song “Auf Augenhöhe” (At Eye Level), you discuss the importance of gender equality. Was there a specific experience that inspired the theme of this song?
There were many pivotal experiences, and that’s the problem. Of course, I have also experienced sexual harassment, as have all of my friends. I have been “mansplained” countless times, not been listened to in the studio or on tour because, as a woman, I “naturally” have less knowledge, and I’ve managed that quite well for a woman*. However, the catalyst for the song was a phone call with my mother, who told me what happened to her again at work in the building technology company in Dinslaken. I was furious.
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I hope that people read this or listen to the song and start questioning or developing their own awareness in their surroundings. Many things that have happened to me, I could only later identify as sexism. Now, being able to recognize this sexism more quickly and understand why certain situations or remarks make me feel uncomfortable, I can react better and emerge stronger from such moments.
Why is it important to address fundamental issues like gender inequality?
Because otherwise, nothing will change.
Title had the opportunity to interview the rising artist herself.
