Exclusive | Marian Richards Talks The Release of Her Upcoming EP 'MOOD'
“I write and compose my own songs. I make my own visual direction and I remain true to myself.”
By: Omar Cook
This week's "Who's Hot?" Artist of the week is Noemie Marian Richards, singer/songwriter/composer from Paris, France! Marian grew up in a musical family and before getting into the music industry, she furthered her education in international trade, but music has always been what she wanted to do for a living. Outside of music, Marian deeply enjoys sports activities. Marian also struggles with ADD and says “I used to be ashamed about it, but this year I’ve been able to accept every parts of my personality and embrace my perfect imperfections.” This up and coming artist has a talented voice mixed with her own style and accent. Be on the lookout for new music coming from this artist as she looks to make international headlines!
Marian - Flamingos (Music Video)
We talked with Marian Richards in an exclusive interview, check it out below!
QUESTION: How long have you been making music and how did you get started?
Marian Richards: I’ve been making music since the age of 13 years old. I was singing, and writing songs in my room. My sister Angela knew I was a talented kid so she enrolled me at the conservatory of music. This is where I started taking singing lessons, guitar and piano lessons. Then, by the age of 18 I started making gigs in Paris at bars, and café’s.
QUESTION: Musically,who has been your biggest influence in helping you along your journey and who are your favorite musicians?
Marian Richards: When I was younger I used to listen to Ashanti. She was my favorite singer in the 2000’s and I really loved her vibes. Then I started interesting myself into other singers like Alicia keys. I think she’s one of my biggest influences because she really motivates me to improve my piano skills. I love jazz music! I could spend hours listening to Etta James, Ella Fitzgerald and new artists and musicians such as Lianne La havas, and Moses Sumney.
QUESTION: What artists would you like to collaborate with and why?
Marian Richards: 6lack, Tyler The Creator, J Cole, Solange Knowles, Miguel, and Khalid. I just love their vibes and their uniqueness.
QUESTION: What do you feel is your best song/project ever released and why?
Marian Richards: Flamingos is the only song I have ever released…there are more songs to come, but my favorite one is “Roots”. There was a time in my life when I was lost I didn’t really know who I was. But going back to my country helped me find my inner child, who I really am, and it really helped me grow. I feel so good when I go back to South America. My soul is at peace and I’m feeling so good.
QUESTION: What projects can we look forward to in the near future?
Marian Richards: I have two upcoming singles, and visuals! My EP”MOOD” is dropping on June 21st.
QUESTION: How do you generate new ideas for your music?
Marian Richards: I’m a sensitive person and I feel like my whole environment helps me create new songs (colors, smells, landscapes) it all depends on how I’m feeling. The moment when I am able to generate new ideas is when I’m not judging myself. I’m a very curious person. I do listen to every kind of music, (jazz, pop, rock, rnb, bossanova,soul, hip hop.) I also watch a lot a movies and video clips because it helps me a lot for my music.
QUESTION: What motivates you and how do you define success?
Marian Richards: My family motivates me! They really believe in me. My dad is my first fan and supported me since day one. I want to share messages through my music…freedom, peace of mind, and above all encourage people to be themselves. To my mind, success is defined by the positive impact that you have on others.
QUESTION: How do you describe your music to people and what separates you from other artists in your genre?
Marian Richards: My music is a mix of pop and rnb. You will always find that chill, retro vibes in my songs with sometimes caribbean sonorities. I just have my own vibes.
QUESTION: Do you believe there is a formula to being a successful artist?
Marian Richards: Being successful is a combo of hard work, dedication, perseverance and maybe a bit of chance.
QUESTION: Who is your greatest inspiration?
Marian Richards: My mother is my biggest inspiration. She is the kindest and sweetest person that I know, she is always ready to help people. She has a huge level of empathy. She is just an amazing woman.
QUESTION: In your opinion who is the most influential and successful artist in your genre today and why?
Marian Richards: Khalid, Miguel..,they both have singular style and voices. I think that’s what makes them successful.
QUESTION: Which emotion more than any other, currently dominates your music? Joy, sadness, anger or passion etc. , and why?
Marian Richards: Well, it depends. 2 years ago I would have said sadness, melancholia, passion. Now it is joy and nostalgia.
QUESTION: What sacrifices have you had to make, to make your dream a reality?
Marian Richards: I’ve had to work hard and sleep less, make financial sacrifices and spend less time having fun.
QUESTION: What aspect of the music making process excites you most, and what aspect discourages you the most?
Marian Richards: Promotion and communication are the hardest part for an independent artist. There is so much to do, but writing, composing, top lining, and finding new ideas for my videos is definitely my favorite part.
QUESTION: Where do you see yourself and your music in 10 years?
Marian Richards: I’d love to write songs, create visual videos for some big artists. I would be professionally and financially fulfilled, and married.
QUESTION: What advice would you give to other up and coming artists or people looking to break into the music industry?
Marian Richards: First of all, you have to know who you are, because when you know yourself, you know where you’re going. Focus is what you need to achieve your goals. Stay grounded, surround yourself with people who support you and have the same mindset as yours, and last thing don’t tell too much about your dreams.
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