A Chat with Chris Pannella (14.07.26)
Chris Pannella is a singer-songwriter who turns life’s most meaningful moments into honest, heartfelt songs. Inspired by experiences of love, loss, growth, and perseverance, his music connects with listeners through authentic storytelling and emotional depth. We chat with Chris Pannella after the release of his latest single ‘Holdin On’.
OSR: ‘Holdin On’ is rooted in an incredibly personal experience. At what point did you realise this story needed to become a song rather than remain a private memory?
Pannella: It happened around springtime of 2025. I don’t really choose when to write songs; they sort of just claw their way out of me.
OSR: Thomas played a significant role in encouraging your musical ambitions. How does it feel knowing that his belief in you became part of the foundation of your career?
Pannella: Bittersweet.
OSR: The song avoids becoming overly sentimental despite its heartbreaking subject matter. Was finding that emotional balance something you consciously worked toward during the writing process? Somewhat.
Pannella: In terms of lyrics, my process is simple. I treat is a conversation with myself.
OSR: October 13th carries two completely different meanings in your life now. Has writing ‘Holdin On’ changed the way you experience that date each year?
Pannella: No, not really.
OSR: Looking back, did creating this song become part of your healing process, or did it uncover emotions you hadn’t fully processed before?
Pannella: I think it just helped me cope. My hot take is that people never truly heal from anything.
OSR: The lyrics feel deeply personal while remaining relatable to anyone who has experienced loss. How important is universality when you’re writing about your own life?
Pannella: I suppose when it comes to the subject of universality, I always think back to Pink Floyd. They are probably my biggest influence when it comes to lyrical style, from ‘Shine On You Crazy Diamond’ to ‘Time To Wish You Were Here’. I also hate overly wordy, needlessly convoluted writing.
OSR: Your music often explores themes of perseverance, friendship, and remembrance. Why do those subjects continue to inspire your songwriting?
Pannella: I have lived an intense life.
OSR: If Thomas could hear ‘Holdin On’ today, what do you hope his reaction would be?
Pannella: He’d ask me when the dubstep remix is getting released.
OSR: After releasing such an emotionally significant song, where do you see your songwriting evolving next?
Pannella: I can tell you right now that I have a few more light-hearted songs in the queue to be released, but things are definitely going to get heavier, not in terms of subject matter but more rock-inspired and aggressive.
Many thanks to Chris Pannella for speaking with us. Find out more about Chris Pannella on his Instagram and Spotify.
