Anessa On the Making Of “Es Asi”
Punk Head: The music video tells a powerful story about a family impacted by ICE. How did that narrative come together, and how involved were you in shaping it?
Anessa: The music video story drew from my experiences and observations over the past few years. I started writing the song in 2020, inspired by social movements and the struggles we faced by my community. With the ongoing challenges immigrants face, including my own family and friends, we decided to tell the story of a family impacted by ICE. I worked closely with Aurelio Ocampo Jr., the director, to shape a story that felt real but also left room for hope. We filmed in locations that reflect my roots in Oxnard, like the strawberry fields and the beach. The white flower I hold in the video represents hope, which I give to the family at the end, a message that says “You’re not alone, we’re in this together.” Attending protests in Oxnard and Camarillo fueled my fire to finish the song and share it. I brought those experiences and feelings into discussions with the director, which helped guide the narrative so it reflected real struggles while also offering hope.
Punk Head: You’re from Oxnard, a community with deep immigrant roots (I actually lived in Ventura until earlier this year). How did your upbringing influence the themes in “Es Así”?
Anessa: Growing up in Oxnard, surrounded by a community of immigrants including my own family, really shaped how I see the world. Seeing the struggles and resilience around me inspired the themes of “Es Asi”; compassion, unity and hope. I wanted to tell a story that honors my community while also resonating with anyone facing challenges.
Punk Head: As a producer as well as an artist, what sonic elements were non-negotiable for you on this track?
Anessa: As both a producer and artist, I knew the song had to feel intimate and emotional. I wanted to keep the chord progression throughout because it felt hopeful and inspiring. The strong kick at the beginning and the snare towards the chorus were essential to give the song energy without overpowering the emotion. Percussion, like the congas and shakers in the second verse and some synth textures were also key, adding depth and uniqueness. Vocally, the first verses needed to feel soft and raw, gradually building into a more powerful bridge with harmonies. The guitar included a repeated motif that runs through the chorus, which was non-negotiable because it gives the song its joyful, uplifting character and helps distinguish the chorus from the rest of the track. All of these elements were crucial to preserving the emotion, energy and message of the song.
Punk Head: The message is universal, but the story is specific. What do you hope listeners from outside that experience understand when they hear this song?
Anessa: Even though the story is specific, I hope listeners from all backgrounds feel compassion and empathy. I want them to understand that struggles like these affect real people, and that hope, love, and unity are possible even in the hardest moments.
Punk Head: Music tied to real social issues can be vulnerable to release. What was the hardest part emotionally about putting “Es Así” into the world?
Anessa: The hardest part emotionally was feeling vulnerable sharing a story that’s so personal and tied to real struggles in my community. The song addresses topics like injustice, loss, and the struggles we face in life, and I wanted to make sure it was honest and respectful. Putting it into the world meant opening up about pain, hope and injustice and wondering how people would receive it. At the same time, I felt a responsibility to share it because these stories deserve to be heard. It was both scary and empowering, but ultimately I hope the song inspires compassion, hope and connection.
