Anok Yai Made Us a Playlist for Long Shoot Days

Welcome to SOUND ADVICE, Interview‘s destination for playlists curated by our friends, enemies, and lovers. In recent weeks, we’ve featured playlists from girlsweetvoiced, Cannelle, and Eera. This week’s installment comes to us courtesy of South Sudanese-American supermodel Anok Yai, the fierce favorite of luxury fashion houses like Chanel, Versace, and Yves Saint Laurent. To celebrate her starring role in Victoria’s Secret’s Very Sexy campaign, Yai gave us the high-energy soundtrack to her on-set days and unforgettable runway moments, featuring classics like Michael Jackson and Mariah Carey, as well as newer favorites like Travis Scott and PARTYNEXTDOOR. Then, in our questionnaire, she spilled on her search history, nighttime routine, and the secret to staying Very Sexy.

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What’s the last thing you Googled? Why does my body get so hot when I sleep?

Favorite travel destination? Japan, Jamaica, St. Barts, Brazil.

Which songs on this playlist would you love to hear on set? All of them I would hope!

What do you find to be Very Sexy? Knowledge of self and embracing all aspects of my womanhood feels Very Sexy these days.

What makes a good Insta picture, or caption? The best posts are, honestly, the ones that you just post on a whim. Sharing something you find beautiful the moment you see it is the whole point of Instagram! Also, show your face! The people want to see your face.

Bodysuit or corset? Corset, always a corset!

What does prep for shoot day look like? A nice full-body massage, a good facial, and extra pampering in the evening is my usual routine. It really sets the mood and preps me for long shoot days.

Who’s your favorite OG Victoria Secret angel? My sister Candice Swanepoel!

Name a song that reminds you of home. “Yin Ayaatuk Yapuou” by Amira Deng.

What song on this playlist do you play in your head when you’re on the runway? “Arrival” or “Harkonnen Arena” by Hans Zimmer. Both from the Dune: Part Two soundtrack. The entire soundtrack was exceptionally composed.

What song do you have on repeat? “Addiction” ft. Cassie and Fabolous by Ryan Leslie and “Towers” by Actress.