Savannah Spann isn’t interested in staying in one lane creatively.
Performing as Sav., the MTSU senior songwriting major describes her music as “indie pop,” though she’s working toward a label she feels fits even better.
“I’m trying to establish the term ‘whimsy pop,’” Spann said. “Whatever I want it to be.”
That creative freedom has shaped Spann’s journey since moving to Murfreesboro in 2022. Originally from Arkansas, she arrived at MTSU to study songwriting and quickly found opportunities through Match Records, the university’s student-run label. After auditioning as a freshman, Spann signed with the label and has spent the last several years developing both her sound and stage presence.
“I’ve been a performer my whole life,” Spann said. “I’ve just always loved being onstage. It’s always felt like where I’m supposed to be.”
Through Match Records, Spann said she was introduced to the collaborative side of the music industry, working with artists, producers and other students while gaining experience performing around campus and in the Nashville area.
“Match really opened that door for me,” Spann said. “It taught me a lot early on that I think would have taken me longer to learn otherwise.”
While her opportunities have grown, Spann’s music has continued to evolve. She began with a more traditional singer-songwriter style before experimenting with indie pop and brighter mainstream pop influences. Recently, she’s leaned into a pop-rock sound paired with what she describes as a more “whimsical” and “witchy” aesthetic.
“I love so many different kinds of music,” Spann said. “I don’t want to put myself in a box creatively.”
Even as her genres shift, Spann said her songwriting consistently centers on personal growth and self-discovery. Much of her work reflects the experience of navigating young adulthood and learning who she wants to become.
“The through line in my writing has always been coming of age,” Spann said. “It’s a lot of internalized writing — just my thoughts, my emotions and how I’m growing into the person I want to be.”
That emotional honesty also shapes her live performances. Spann said she wants audiences to leave her shows feeling both energized and emotionally connected to the music.
“I want people to have fun and be able to let loose,” Spann said. “But I also want it to be cathartic. If I ever make someone cry at a show, I’m doing it right.”
One of her favorite performances came earlier this year during a release show for her single “Standing Ovation.” Spann said the performance stood out because of the chemistry between her band and the crowd.
“When the crowd is really engaged — cheering, singing along — that’s what makes a show feel special,” Spann said.
Spann credits artists like Stevie Nicks and Sabrina Carpenter as major inspirations, both musically and aesthetically. She also said spirituality and manifestation have recently influenced her creative direction and branding.
Now, with graduation behind her, Spann is focused on creating her next project after spending the past two years releasing singles following her 2024 EP.
“I’m in the beginning stages of a new project,” Spann said. “I’m really excited to put something together that feels more complete.”
For new listeners, Spann recommends starting with either the emotional “Look the Other Way” or the upbeat “Fiona,” two songs she said best showcase the different sides of her artistry.
As she prepares for life after MTSU, Spann said she hopes to continue performing, touring and organizing shows for both herself and other artists.
For new listeners interested in keeping up with Sav.’s music and upcoming performances, Spann said her new website — along with her Instagram — will be the best place to follow her next chapter.
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