anni xo (they/them) is a young queer musician hailing from Minnesota who found solace in music as a means to explore their identity and embrace the complexities of life. Inspired by the likes of boygenius, Samia, and Annie DiRusso, anni’s music expertly convey themes of love, loss, and the struggles of growing up in the midwest.
Through their songwriting, anni hopes to create a sense of community and connection, particularly between those who feel ostracized by the world around them. anni xo’s music is a powerful tool for healing and empowerment, offering hope and validation to young queer people navigating a world that can often feel unwelcoming.
After their debut EP, “allergic to dogs,” anni earned the coveted Album of the Year award from the Loring Collective in 2024. At the 2025 Loring Awards, anni added to their accolades, bringing home both the Musical Artist of the Year and Record of The Year (for their single, “Madison”) awards – a testament to their artistry and impact within the local scene. Their talent has also garnered attention from the Current’s scouting report and earned them the title of Emerging Artist by Music in Minnesota.
Onstage, anni xo is joined by a talented ensemble of musicians, including Maddie Thies (any pronouns) on bass guitar, Riley Jacobson (he/him) on electric guitar, Aurelio Sandoval Pogatshnik (he/him) on drums, and Hunter SinClair Hawthorne on keys. Together, they create a captivating live music experience.
Red Eye
Sentimental