UPDATE: Marin natives Sophia Sabella and Pablo Feldman have just received a Grammy Award nomination for their work on Doechii‘s music video “Anxiety,” marking a significant milestone in their burgeoning production career. The nomination announcement came as a thrilling surprise on January 15, 2024, just weeks before the Grammy Awards ceremony scheduled for February 1.
The music video, which explores Doechii’s mental health struggles, has quickly gained traction, amassing over 58 million views since its release on April 18, 2023. The duo played a crucial role in the production, navigating complex scenes and intricate choreography involving 85 dancers. “We were so excited, and it turned out better than we ever imagined,” Sabella stated about the project.
The nomination places “Anxiety” in the spotlight alongside other notable contenders, including Sabrina Carpenter’s “Manchild” and Sade’s “Young Lion.” This recognition not only highlights the pair’s hard work but also celebrates the collaborative efforts of their team at More Avenue, their production company formed with producer Jolene Mendes.
Sabella and Feldman, who grew up in Mill Valley, California, have always been passionate about music videos, influenced by the MTV era. “Sophia and I have always loved music videos since we were kids,” said Feldman. Their journey into filmmaking began with projects like the coming-of-age drama “Edge of Everything,” which sold out hometown showings in 2024.
The opportunity to work on “Anxiety” arose through Mendes, who had previously collaborated with director James Mackel. Feldman praised Mackel’s talent, stating, “He’s an amazingly talented director that we’ve all wanted to work with for a while.” The trio’s dynamic on set emphasized creativity and fun, ultimately enhancing the energy of their projects.
As the Grammy Awards approach, the excitement is palpable. “We did not expect all of this. It’s been a year of a lot of hard work on videos, and it’s pretty amazing to be included on this stage with so many other incredible nominees,” Feldman expressed.
The nomination is not just a personal achievement for Sabella and Feldman; it signifies the hard work of countless behind-the-scenes creatives in the music industry. The recognition at the Grammys serves as a reminder of the importance of their roles in shaping impactful stories through visual media.
As fans eagerly await the ceremony, the buzz around “Anxiety” continues to grow, showcasing the power of music videos in today’s digital landscape. The duo’s journey from local filmmakers to Grammy nominees is a testament to their dedication and passion for storytelling. Stay tuned for further updates as the awards night approaches!
