Marin Filmmakers Nominated for Grammy with Doechii’s “Anxiety”

URGENT UPDATE: Marin natives Sophia Sabella and Pablo Feldman have just received a Grammy nomination for their production work on Doechii’s hit music video, “Anxiety.” This nomination marks a significant milestone for the couple and their production company, More Avenue, as they face off against notable contenders like Sabrina Carpenter and OK Go at the Grammy Awards on February 1, 2024.

The music video, released on April 18, has already garnered an impressive 58 million views, highlighting its impact and audience reception. Sabella and Feldman faced the challenge of building an entire house set on a sound stage, coordinating a complex choreography with 85 dancers, and executing pyrotechnics—all while supporting director James Mackel’s creative vision.

“We had such specific timing; it’s amazing how much each detail needed to flow successfully,” Sabella explained. “When you watch the video, you might not realize how much effort was required for everything to be perfect.”

The news of their Grammy nomination came as a surprise to them. “That day, we got a text from our partners and Doechii’s team saying, ‘Congrats, Grammy nominees.’ We couldn’t believe it!” Feldman shared, reflecting on the excitement of their achievement.

Growing up in Mill Valley during the MTV era, both filmmakers have always been passionate about music videos. “We’ve always loved music videos since we were kids,” Feldman said. Their journey into the industry became official when they partnered with producer Jolene Mendes to create their first feature film, which solidified their collaborative spirit.

The opportunity to work on “Anxiety” came through Mendes, who has previously produced for Atlantic Records and Warner Music Group. Mackel reached out to them to bring their vision to life. “He’s an amazingly talented director that we’ve all wanted to work with for a while,” Feldman stated.

Sabella emphasized the thrill of creating music videos: “You get to create some pretty amazing magic. We know how hard it is on that side, so we push as hard as we can to support the director.” The pair worked tirelessly leading up to the shoot, often working around the clock to ensure everything was executed flawlessly.

The recognition at the Grammy Awards is not just a personal victory for Sabella and Feldman; it also shines a light on the often-overlooked work of producers and creatives behind the scenes. “To see all of our names up there was one of the most mind-blowing experiences,” Feldman remarked.

As the Grammy Awards approach, the excitement continues to build, and the couple is ready to celebrate their hard work and dedication. Their journey from Mill Valley to the Grammy stage is a testament to their talent and passion for storytelling through film and music.

Stay tuned for further updates as this story develops, and mark your calendars for the Grammy Awards on February 1.