Martina Doerner: The Unsung Hero of Indie Music's Renaissance

 

In the evolving tapestry of the music industry, where the clamor of mainstream success often overshadows the quiet brilliance of independent artistry, Martina Doerner emerges as an unsung hero. Her story is not just a testament to her love for music but also an inspiring narrative of dedication, support, and passion that transcends the conventional pathways of musical success.

Martina Doerner, a name that may not headline billboards but resonates deeply within the hearts of indie musicians and music lovers alike, began her journey in the 70s and 80s. In the vibrant and ever-evolving landscape of indie music, few names have risen with as much affection and respect as Martina Doerner's. Her journey into the heart of the indie music scene began in 2018, a path that unfolded not on the stages of concert halls or the studios of recording labels, but within the digital realms of Twitter. What started as a simple gesture of sharing music from a handful of bands she admired quickly blossomed into a sprawling network of thousands of artists, each benefiting from her tireless advocacy and genuine passion for their work.

Martina's initial foray into the music world was as humble as it was heartfelt. A few shared tracks became a rallying cry for indie artists seeking an audience, and as the number of bands grew, so did Martina's involvement in the music community. Her "work," a term she uses modestly, transcended mere sharing. She ventured into curating playlists, a task that involved not just selecting songs but weaving together narratives that spoke to the heart of the indie music experience. Her playlists became lifelines for artists and fans alike, connecting them in a tapestry of sound that spanned genres and geographies.

But Martina's contributions didn't stop at playlists. She expanded her repertoire to include writing reviews and conducting interviews, diving deeper into the stories behind the music. Her voice found new outlets in podcasts and radio stations, where she offered short reviews and band introductions, further amplifying the reach of artists who might otherwise go unnoticed.

Despite the accolades and the growing recognition of her contributions, Martina's journey has not been without its challenges. Health issues have forced her to narrow her focus, prioritizing the creation and sharing of playlists over other projects. Yet, even in the face of adversity, her dedication to the indie music community remains unwavering. Martina describes working with and for musicians as a source of strength and energy, an essential counterbalance to the stresses of her job outside the music world.

Martina Doerner's story is a testament to the impact one individual can have on the indie music landscape. Through her dedication, countless artists have found a voice, and fans have discovered new music that might have otherwise remained in the shadows. As she looks forward to continuing her journey, Martina's legacy is already evident in the thriving community she has helped build—a community that eagerly awaits her next move.

Beyond her personal achievements, Martina's impact on the indie music scene is profound. She is celebrated for her tireless efforts to curate and promote new music, serving as the antithesis of the corporate music industry. Martina's dedication to sharing good music with the world is evident in her curated playlists on Spotify and SoundCloud, where she features a diverse array of music that often goes unnoticed. Her approach is refreshingly altruistic; she seeks no compensation, only the joy of sharing music and connecting artists.

Martina's work ethic is exemplary. Balancing a full-time job with her passion project, she manages to carve out time to listen, curate, and share music from indie artists. Her playlists are not just collections of songs but narratives of discovery and appreciation. Every Sunday, she invites submissions, yet her dedication often sees her adding songs even without formal submissions, highlighting her proactive and generous nature.

Her influence extends beyond mere playlist curation. Martina engages with artists, offering feedback, support, and even personal interactions that enrich the community. For many indie musicians, her playlists have been a gateway to new audiences, collaborations, and opportunities. Martina's introductions and background segments on some songs add a personal touch that elevates the listening experience, showcasing her talent as a fantastic DJ with a soothing presence.

The gratitude expressed by the indie music community towards Martina is overwhelming. Artists describe her as a guardian angel, a champion of independent music, and a beacon of hope in a challenging industry. Her work not only brings music to the ears of listeners worldwide but also fosters a sense of community and mutual support among indie artists.

Amidst her countless contributions, Martina's dedication and influence have been recognized on a larger scale, as she has been nominated for the prestigious First Annual Indie Hero Award, a community initiative. This nomination not only validates her unwavering support for indie artists but also positions her as a leading figure in the indie music scene. Given her significant impact and the widespread admiration she has garnered, Martina is not just a nominee but a strong contender likely to win this accolade. This recognition further cements her status as a pivotal force in nurturing and promoting independent music.

Looking to the future, Martina remains hopeful about returning to writing and further developing her podcast. Her vision extends beyond the immediate horizon, driven by a deep-seated belief in the power of music to connect and inspire. For Martina, the indie music scene is not just a collection of artists and songs but a vibrant community that she has helped nurture and grow.

Martina Doerner's story is a compelling narrative of resilience, generosity, and an unyielding love for music. She embodies the spirit of indie music—a realm where passion, not profit, drives creativity. As she continues to share her love for music and support indie artists, Martina's legacy is one of inspiration, reminding us that it's never too late to pursue your passion and make a meaningful impact on the world. In the cacophony of today's music industry, Martina Doerner's dedication to indie music shines as a melodious testament to the power of genuine, heartfelt support.

Interview Summary

Martina Doerner's journey into the indie music scene began with a simple exploration on Twitter in 2018, leading her to discover and share music from a few bands. This initial step quickly evolved into curating playlists, initially starting with one per week and expanding to twenty every weekend, fueled by the growing submissions from artists. Martina's dedication to providing a platform for independent musicians is driven by her passion for music and her desire to support emerging talents without seeking personal gain. She operates with an open-minded approach to playlist curation, welcoming all genres except for content that contradicts her values.

Navigating the challenges of balancing a demanding full-time job in a dementia ward with her musical endeavors, Martina finds music to be a perfect counterbalance to her day-to-day life. She sees the evolution of music distribution through digital platforms as a double-edged sword, acknowledging their essential role in discovering new music while cautioning against the exploitation of artists by some promoters.

Martina's efforts in the indie music scene are motivated by altruism and a deep-seated belief in the importance of sharing music. She advises artists to persist in their dreams, leverage well-known platforms for visibility, and engage actively with the community for mutual growth. Her recent nomination for the Indie Hero Award is a testament to her impactful work, bringing her joy and reinforcing her commitment to the indie music community.

Looking ahead, Martina aspires to resume writing about music and continue developing her podcast, hoping for the support and patience of her music community. Her story and advice offer inspiration to both artists navigating the indie scene and individuals seeking to make a difference through their passions.

Interview with Martina

What inspired you to start curating playlists and promoting new music, particularly from indie artists, on platforms like Spotify and SoundCloud?

I started to dive into the music scene when I joined Twitter in 2018. After I discovered a few great bands I started to create the playlist and I started with only one per week. Then I asked for music for the playlists and more and more artists submitted their songs. Now I'm on up to twenty every weekend , a lot of work and I love it! It's the greatest gift for me to see that people love what I do and it's so important to give independent musicians a platform.

With your extensive experience in the music industry, how do you perceive the evolution of music distribution, especially with the rise of digital platforms?

I believe that social media can be a blessing and a curse at the same time.  Especially in view of the fact that there are so many dubious alleged "promoters" who are not really interested in music or the musicians but are only interested in making money.  On the other hand...where would we be without digital platforms?  It's the best way to discover new music and artists.  I just wish that they would be treated and paid fairly!

How do you balance your full-time job with your passion for music and managing to curate playlists and interact with the indie music community?

My job is indeed very stressful and sometimes I run out of time. I work in a dementia ward, a dream job with certain challenges and music plays a big role here too.  For me it is a perfect balance to everyday life when I can "sink" into music.

What criteria do you use to select songs for your playlists, and how do you discover new artists and tracks to feature?

There are actually no criteria for my playlists, I ask for songs, the musicians submit them and there is actually nothing that I would exclude.  Except maybe lyrics that I can't reconcile with my attitude.  On my playlists, metal and rock meet as well as classical  music and punk.  Every genre is welcome!

Your efforts have been described as altruistic, focusing on the joy of sharing music rather than personal gain. Can you elaborate on what motivates this approach?

Well, it's just that I would never ask for money for something that I'm passionate about.  I said that I'm really upset about people trying to rip off musicians.  Artists should be paid to be heard and not have to pay to be heard.

Given the significant impact you've had on the indie music scene, what advice would you give to artists trying to navigate the challenges of gaining recognition and building an audience?

It's difficult to give good advice, but I can definitely advise every musician not to give up and stick to their dreams.  The well-known platforms in particular are a good way to make yourself known and make contacts.  Draw attention to yourself, share your music and, above all, share other people's music, good interaction with others is important and brings new perspectives and new contacts.

The Indie Hero Award nomination is a significant recognition of your contributions. How do you feel about this nomination, and what does it mean to you and your mission in the indie music community?

Oh, I'm so happy about the nomination, especially because I didn't expect it.  I like to stay in the background and have trouble dealing with praise, but this nomination shows me that there are people who appreciate what I do and that I want to continue doing it for a long time.  I feel honoured and thank everyone who voted for me.  It's an incredibly great feeling!!

Looking forward, how do you see your role evolving in the indie music scene, and are there any new projects or goals you are particularly excited about?

I hope that I will soon be fit enough to write more about music again and I would like to continue working on my podcast.  There is so much that I would like to do, but for that I need time and peace and so I hope for the patience of my wonderful music community!

Thank you so very much for this interview and the interest in what I do!!

Martina's Latest Music Review with W Ed Harris

https://www.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=463740155459225&id=107298857770025

Martina's Latest Interview with Andy Susemihl

https://www.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=211913410641902&id=107298857770025

Martina Socials

https://linktr.ee/martinadoerner

Dorsten: A Musical Odyssey from Phoenix to Abbey Road

In the heart of Phoenix, Arizona, amidst the sprawling desert landscape, a unique musical duo has been quietly crafting a revolution in the music industry. Dorsten, a brother-sister band, has embarked on a journey to redefine the music scene by advocating for artist autonomy at every stage of the creative process. Their story is one of resilience, creativity, and an unwavering commitment to their art.

The Genesis of Dorsten

Dorsten's inception is a testament to the power of familial bonds and shared dreams. In 2020, as the world came to a standstill due to the pandemic, Alex returned from college, finding himself at a crossroads. The siblings, each with their own musical endeavors halted by the global crisis, found solace and inspiration in each other's company. This period of introspection and mutual support led to the creation of their first song, "Sea Salt," a track that symbolized the beginning of their shared musical voyage.

"Sea Salt" was born out of minimal equipment—an SM57 microphone and a laptop barely equipped for college essays. Yet, the limitations did not deter the duo. Instead, they fueled their creativity, leading to a track that captured the attention of listeners and marked Dorsten as a band to watch.

The Unique Blend of Talents

Sophie and Alex bring a distinctive set of skills to Dorsten, making their music and artistic output truly unique. Sophie's contributions go beyond her captivating vocals and piano skills. She is the artistic vision behind the band, creating all album art, filming and editing music videos, and managing social media posts. Alex complements this with his multi-instrumentalist talents, handling guitars, bass, percussion, and banjo, as well as the technical aspects of recording, mixing, and mastering in his bedroom studio.

This synergy allows Dorsten to maintain complete control over their music production, a rarity in the industry. Their dedication to self-production not only showcases their talents but also underscores their commitment to preserving the integrity of their art.

The Journey to 'To The River'

Dorsten's musical journey has been marked by continuous growth and exploration. Their discography expanded as they honed their songwriting and self-production skills, leading to the creation of their 'To The River' EP. This collection of songs represents the culmination of years of dedication and is a testament to their evolution as artists.

The turning point in their career came in March 2022, when Abbey Road Studios extended an invitation to record live songs with a string quartet. The experience in Studio 2 was transformative, immersing them in a history of musical excellence and inspiring a new level of creativity. The resulting "London Sessions" is a collection of live songs that encapsulate the essence of Dorsten's musicality.

A Call to Action

Despite their accomplishments, Dorsten acknowledges the challenges ahead. The costs associated with pressing vinyl, creating new merchandise, touring, and marketing require support beyond their current means. They reach out to their fans and the broader community for support, emphasizing the importance of solidarity in their artistic journey.

Dorsten's journey through the music landscape is marked not only by their artistic integrity and dedication to crafting an authentic experience for their audience but also by their recognition of the importance of community support. The brother-sister duo has always taken pride in their ability to manage every aspect of their music production process. This holistic approach, they believe, crafts a more genuine connection with their listeners. However, the road ahead in 2024 is filled with ambitious ventures that require more than just talent and hard work; they require the support of their fans and the broader music-loving community.

The past year has been one of relentless dedication for Dorsten. Sophie has invested countless hours in vocal lessons and songwriting classes at Alice Cooper's Solid Rock, an organization dedicated to empowering teens through free music, arts, and vocational programs. Alex, on the other hand, has expanded his technical prowess by taking on mixing and mastering projects, including the sophisticated Atmos mixing for other artists. Their combined efforts and personal financial contributions have amounted to nearly $13,000 towards their project. Yet, despite their hard work and self-investment, the financial demands of their upcoming ventures exceed their current resources.

In 2024, Dorsten is poised to embark on an exciting tour, securing a spot as an opener for a major act. This opportunity, while offering invaluable exposure, comes with its own set of financial challenges, primarily the need to fund travel expenses without the support of tour compensation. Moreover, the duo is at a crucial juncture where the upfront costs for new merchandise and vinyl pressing are significant. These endeavors, essential for engaging their fanbase and expanding their reach, necessitate additional financial backing.

The release of new songs also brings forth the challenge of covering extensive marketing expenses. Press, radio play, publications, and other marketing efforts are crucial for the visibility and success of their music but come at a considerable cost. These financial hurdles are a testament to the realities of pursuing a career in music—a career that, while fulfilling, requires substantial investment and community support to flourish.

Dorsten's call to action is a heartfelt invitation to their listeners and supporters to join them on their journey. By contributing to their campaign, fans can become an integral part of Dorsten's story, helping to ensure that the duo can continue to offer their unique, authentic musical experiences. The support of their community is not just a means to financial ends but a powerful affirmation of the value of their music and their vision for an artist-driven industry.

As Dorsten navigates the promising yet challenging year ahead, their story is a reminder of the power of collective support in the arts. Their success is not merely a reflection of their talent and dedication but also of the strength of the community that stands with them. In joining forces with Dorsten, supporters have the opportunity to make a tangible impact in the music world, fostering the growth of independent artists who strive to maintain their creative freedom and authenticity in an ever-evolving industry.

Will you help Dorsten? Share too please!

https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/dorstenmusic/dorstens-debut-ep

https://twitter.com/DorstenMusic

Conclusion

Dorsten's story is more than just a musical endeavor; it is a narrative of resilience, innovation, and the pursuit of artistic freedom. From the deserts of Phoenix to the historic Abbey Road Studios, Sophie and Alex have embarked on a journey that transcends geographical boundaries and musical genres. Their commitment to self-production and artist autonomy is not only a testament to their talent but also a call to action for the music industry at large. As they continue to navigate the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead, Dorsten remains a beacon of inspiration, proving that with passion and perseverance, anything is possible.

The Significance of Receving Kickstarter's "Project We Love" Badge

The "Projects We Love" badge is a notable initiative by Kickstarter, a popular crowdfunding platform that allows creators to find backers for their unique projects. This initiative is designed to highlight standout projects on the platform, offering them increased visibility and recognition among the vast array of campaigns. Here's a comprehensive look at the "Projects We Love" initiative, detailing its purpose, selection criteria, and benefits for creators.

Purpose

The primary goal of the "Projects We Love" initiative is to showcase projects that exemplify creativity, innovation, and the core values of Kickstarter. These projects are handpicked by Kickstarter's staff based on their uniqueness, presentation, and potential to inspire and engage the community. By featuring these projects, Kickstarter not only aims to celebrate the hard work and dedication of creators but also to help them attract more support and funding from the platform's wide user base.

Selection Criteria

The selection process for the "Projects We Love" badge is not explicitly detailed by Kickstarter, as it involves a subjective evaluation by the platform's staff. However, several factors are considered in identifying these projects:

Innovation and Originality: Projects that offer new solutions, creative ideas, or an innovative approach to existing problems are often recognized.

Presentation: A well-organized campaign page with clear, engaging content, including detailed descriptions, compelling images, and videos, stands a better chance of being highlighted.

Community Engagement: Projects that demonstrate a strong connection with their audience, including active updates and responsiveness to backer queries, are viewed favorably.

Commitment to Sustainability: Projects that consider their environmental impact and propose sustainable practices can also be highlighted as part of Kickstarter's commitment to positive social and environmental practices.

Benefits for Creators

Receiving the "Projects We Love" badge comes with several advantages for creators:

Increased Visibility: These projects are given prominence on the Kickstarter platform, appearing in special sections like the "Projects We Love" page, and sometimes featured in Kickstarter's newsletters and social media channels. This increased visibility can lead to more traffic and, subsequently, more backers.

Credibility and Trust: The badge acts as a seal of approval from Kickstarter, signaling to potential backers that the project has been vetted and recognized for its quality and potential.

Motivation and Morale Boost: For creators, earning this recognition can serve as a significant morale boost, affirming the value of their hard work and creativity. It can also motivate them to engage more actively with their community and continue developing their project with greater enthusiasm.

Conclusion

Kickstarter's "Projects We Love" initiative plays a vital role in fostering innovation and creativity within the crowdfunding community. By highlighting projects that exemplify the best of what Kickstarter has to offer, the platform not only aids creators in achieving their funding goals but also enriches the experience for backers looking for unique and inspiring projects to support. For creators aspiring to earn this badge, focusing on innovation, presentation, community engagement, and sustainability can increase their chances of being recognized and celebrated through this initiative.

Nathalie Miranda: The UK's Daring Musical Trailblazer

 

London's very own Nathalie Miranda is a musical force to be reckoned with. With a collection of over six genre-defying singles, this dynamic pop star brings an extraordinary blend of soul, blues, and classic rock to the forefront of high-energy retro pop. Her performances are nothing short of electrifying; Nathalie not only showcases a stellar octave range but also performs with a passion that is both raw and captivating, ensuring she leaves everything on the stage.

Miranda draws inspiration from a rich tapestry of musical legends including Freddie Mercury, Prince, Madonna, Tina Turner, Christina Aguilera, and Whitney Houston. These influences, combined with the musical heritage of her Greek-Cypriot roots, infuse her sound with powerful belts and playful lyrics, making her distinctive style even more captivating.

2023 marks a significant year in Nathalie's ascending career, with her smash hits ‘Catch-22’ and ‘Soul on Fire’ amassing 250,000 Spotify streams each and over 200,000 YouTube views combined. Her shimmering vocals and unique artistry have established her as the UK's formidable response to the US's iconic divas. Nathalie's talents have been recognized in high-profile features including Wonderland Magazine and Rolling Stone India. Her live performances boast appearances on BBC’s ‘Later… with Jools Holland’ as a backing vocalist and gigs at iconic London venues like The Troubadour.

Born in London to Greek-Cypriot parents, Nathalie is a fluent Greek speaker and takes immense pride in her heritage, which she skillfully weaves into her music. Her 2022 single ‘????a S?µ?d?a (1000 Scars)’ is a testament to this, embracing a classic Greek folk rhythm called Zeibekiko, and produced by renowned Greek producer Harry K.

Beyond her solo career, Nathalie Miranda has been a prolific figure in the dance and house music scene since 2017, lending her 90s diva vocals to collaborations with international producers. Her versatile artistry defies creative boundaries, showcasing her ability to innovate and adapt across genres. Her early classical piano studies laid the groundwork for her songwriting prowess, a skill further unlocked by an impromptu hotel karaoke performance during a family holiday.

Nathalie Miranda's sound is continually evolving, brimming with passion, heart, and the spirit of her Greek-Cypriot roots. As she continues to captivate audiences with her powerhouse performances and innovative music, Nathalie Miranda is a name to watch in the music industry. Follow her journey for updates and new music that promises to inspire and electrify.

Miranda's tribute to the 1980s, "Is This Love," showcases her passion for the era, known for corded telephones and a social life that didn't rely on computers. The song, initially penned in 2015 and later reworked for its release, captures the essence of being young and carefree. The music video, which was shot partly in Miranda's bedroom transformed into an '80s dream and at Ballie Ballerson's in London, radiates fun, love, happiness, and nostalgia. She credits her team, including co-writer/producer Simon Cookson and director/video editor David Brant, for bringing her vision to life​​.

Additionally, Nathalie Miranda collaborated with Will-Powerz on the track "Good Day," a project that came to fruition after Will-Powerz was captivated by her soulful voice in live performance videos on YouTube. The song speaks to the hope of living life freely and coming together, with Miranda lending her voice to express these sentiments. This collaboration further solidifies her standing in the North London music scene, where she continues to perform and release solo songs​​.

Interview Summary

Nathalie Miranda, an independent artist with a diverse musical influence, has announced plans to release two to three singles with a 70s, groovy feel for the rest of the year. She finds motivation in her passion for music and the support of her small but dedicated fanbase, despite the pressures of social media and the evolving music industry. Miranda enjoys experimenting across genres, reflecting her varied inspirations, including 70s rock, and evolving her image alongside her sound.

Her hits 'Catch-22' and 'Soul on Fire' were created under different circumstances: 'Catch-22' during lockdown, connecting deeply with fans, and 'Soul on Fire' in collaboration with dance producer Babert, showcasing her versatility. Influenced by iconic artists like Prince and Freddie Mercury, Miranda's music is also shaped by her Greek-Cypriot roots, especially evident in songs like ‘Χίλια Σημάδια (1000 Scars)’.

Collaborating with international producers on dance and house tracks has been rewarding, offering her opportunities to contribute her unique flair. Miranda's vocal talents were discovered at a hotel karaoke night, marking the start of her journey in music. She discusses the double-edged sword of the digital age for musicians, recognizing the benefits of social media for independent artists while lamenting the loss of mystique and the pressure to generate content over music.

Miranda openly addresses ageism in the industry, advocating for perseverance and authenticity regardless of age. She considers her performance with the band 'James' on 'Later with Jools' as a significant career milestone and highlights her classical piano background as foundational to her songwriting and musical understanding. Miranda emphasizes the importance of staying true to oneself and being authentic in navigating the music industry's challenges and opportunities.

Interview with Nathalie Miranda

 

Can you tell us about any upcoming releases you have planned for the near future?

 

I have two to three singles planned for the rest of the year. I just released a cover track a few weeks ago, but ultimately, I prefer releasing my own music. The new tracks will have more of a 70s, groovy feel to them.

 

What inspires you to keep creating music, and how do you stay motivated in this ever-evolving industry?

 

You know, I think that it’s harder than ever these days to stay motivated. There is so much pressure coming from every direction, particularly with regard to social media, and I feel that it can detract from the art of actually making music. Personally, I use that determination within me to prove a whole bunch of people wrong haha! No, but really, I love making music and I’m lucky enough to have a small but incredibly supportive fanbase that keeps me motivated to be the best artist I can be, for myself and for them.

 

With a career that spans various genres, how do you decide on the direction for your new music?

 

Well, thank you for noticing! I love music, and I’m inspired by so many genres and styles. As an independent artist, I have the privilege of being 100% in control of my output, image etc, and so I’m taking advantage of this by experimenting with all the genres that have inspired me. For example, my song ‘Battle Scars’ was inspired by 70s rock, but I’m by no means a rock vocalist; I just wanted to pay tribute to those sounds and artists, and have some fun with it.

I enjoy evolving my image along with the sound also.

 

Reflecting on your hits 'Catch-22' and 'Soul on Fire,' what was the creative process behind these tracks?

 

‘Catch-22’ was written, recorded and released during lockdown, and it’s the song that really connected me with the majority of my fans. The lyrics came to me while I was watching TV and I had to stop everything to go and write it. I wanted to create a dramatic, almost theatrical song, and I think we did a great job with that. It’s still one of my most requested songs.

 

‘Soul on Fire’ is I think my most streamed release, but it wasn’t my release, actually. Babert, a dance producer who I’ve worked with a lot asked me to change the lyrics to this track he wanted to rework, and sing the vocals. It ended up being ‘Soul on Fire’. It was fun to record and get my dance diva on, but honestly I haven’t sung it since!

 

You've been influenced by iconic artists across several genres. How do these influences shape your music today?

They have a huge influence on my music. I never went to stage school or anything like that and I didn’t even have a singing lesson until I was in my late teens, so I mostly learnt everything I know by listening to my favourite artists and trying to emulate them. I love an artist who gives their all, shows passion, and isn’t afraid to take risks, like Prince, Freddie Mercury, Madonna, Christina Aguilera and so on. So yes, that’s definitely percolated down into my music.

 

Can you share more about how your Greek-Cypriot roots influence your music, especially in songs like ‘Χίλια Σημάδια (1000 Scars)’?

 

I’m incredibly proud to be Greek Cypriot. Greek was the first language I ever spoke. I grew up listening to Greek music, which is all about passion and heartbreak mostly. Greek singers really know how to convey their emotions, and it has most definitely influenced the way I perform.

 ‘Χίλια Σημάδια’ was a project I wanted to do for so many years, and I finally released it in 2022. It’s a song about revenge, heartbreak, and a woman scorned. And even if you don’t speak Greek, you can feel what I’m feeling. I hope to record more songs in Greek soon.

 

 

Working with international producers on dance and house tracks, what do you find most rewarding about these collaborations?

 

It’s been very beneficial to me as a singer and songwriter to work on so many dance tracks. It’s not my favourite genre if I’m being honest, but the songs are really easy to write, and with each track, I bring something different to the table. I’ve been lucky enough to work with some lovely producers over the years, some of whom have returned to me many times for further work.

 

Your vocal talents were discovered during a hotel karaoke night. Can you tell us more about that experience and how it impacted your career?

 

Ah, yes, the karaoke night. I was a very shy kid, and not even my parents knew that I could sing. We were on holiday that year in Cyprus, and I just had this feeling that if I don’t perform now, in this moment, I will never do so. I asked my mum to get up and perform before me, to which she replied ‘are you mad?’ haha. But, she got up and performed a song, which encouraged me to get up and perform ‘Hopelessly Devoted To You’ from Grease.

 

I sang with my back to the audience as I was terrified. But I finished the song and everyone got to their feet! I couldn’t believe it. That was the moment I knew that I could do it. And I haven’t stopped since then.

 

As an artist with a significant digital presence, what are your views on the pros and cons of the digital age for musicians?

 

You know, I grew up in a time when there was no internet. I listened to all my music on the radio, cassettes, CDs. And honestly, I miss that anticipation of having to wait to go buy the single or album once it comes out. I feel that, although social media and the digital age have brought their benefits, the mystique of the artists we love has now gone. Everything we want is at our fingertips. A song comes out, we press play on our phones and it’s there. We can watch and listen to everything on demand. I’m not a fan of that, to be honest.

 

Social media has been amazing for me as an independent, unknown artist. I’ve been able to connect with people internationally without leaving my house. And I’m very grateful for that. However, I think that the pressure and focus is now on social media and making ‘content’ rather than actually making music and being an artist. And I don’t feel comfortable with that.  I’ve created my own way of using socials so that I don’t get too overwhelmed, but at the same time, I’m interacting with my fans and maintaining that connection.

 

Ageism is a topic of concern in the music industry. Have you encountered ageism, and how do you navigate these challenges?

 

Ageism is still a huge concern, particularly for women in the industry. I talk very openly about my age, and I’m not ashamed to say that I’m 40. I want younger artists, especially female artists, to know that sometimes it doesn’t work out the way you planned when you were 18. Sometimes, you end up working way longer than you thought you might before anyone takes notice, and you know what, that is ok. Personally, I think I’m the best artist I’ve ever been. At 20, I didn’t really know myself, I didn’t know who I was as an artist. And now, yes, I’m older but I’m more experienced and I’m not prepared to put up with any nonsense from anyone in the industry.

 

I think it’s amazing that Kylie Minogue is still out there killing it at age 55, and yet certain major radio stations refused to play her music because of her age! I’ve never heard anything so ridiculous! Kylie is an icon, and someone whose music I listen to a lot. She is very underrated as an artist. I hope she wins that Grammy!

 

I have faced ageism indirectly, I believe. I think because I talk so openly about my age, some venues, or producers etc, may decide privately not to work with me because I am past it. That’s just my opinion. But that’s fine, you know, I don’t want to be associated with people like that anyway.

 

You’ve performed on iconic stages and been featured in major publications. What do you consider your biggest career milestone so far?

 

I think it has to be performing backing vocals for the band ‘James’ on the BBC show ‘Later with Jools’. It was a great learning experience being on live TV, and performing songs I didn’t really know until that day. And it served as motivation for me to work hard and one day be on that show performing my own music.

 

How do you balance the desire to pay homage to your musical influences with the need to create a unique and distinctive sound?

 

Interesting question. I think that my voice is distinctive, so whatever genre I decide to sing, it somehow becomes my own because I have something different going on. That is a good and a bad thing, because the rejection I’ve faced far outweighs the opportunities. But I make it very clear that if I can’t be authentic, then there really is no point.

 

In terms of songwriting, how has your classical piano background influenced your approach to composing music?

 

I think it’s given me the foundations to be able to write music, for sure. I’m very good at hearing harmonies, for example, and I think a lot of that comes from the ear training I had to do as part of my classical piano studies. So thank you, Mum, for making me go to piano lessons!

 

The digital age has transformed how artists interact with their audiences. How do you use digital platforms to connect with your fans?

 

I do my best to reply to every comment, message and so on. Sometimes, it is overwhelming and I need to take a few days off, but it’s really important to me that my fans know how much I appreciate their support. I am incredibly grateful to them.

 

Facing the challenges and opportunities of the music industry, what advice would you give to aspiring artists looking to carve their path?

I would say quite simply, be yourself. No matter what people say, stay true to your vision and keep focused on your dreams.

Socials

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Lyric Review of Echoes by Nathalie Miranda

The lyrics narrate a deeply emotional and evocative story of growth, pain, and self-discovery. They speak to the universal experience of transitioning from the innocence of childhood to the complexities of adulthood, highlighting the often painful process of coming to terms with one's identity and the challenges life presents.

The recurring imagery of "bullets" and a "safe little world" symbolizes the harsh realities and trials one faces growing up, suggesting a loss of innocence and the harsh impact of life's challenges. The metaphor of a "page that can’t be turned" and a voice that was "never heard" poignantly expresses feelings of stagnation and silence, reflecting a struggle with self-worth and expression.

Central to the song is the transformational journey towards self-acceptance and resilience. The mirror serves as a powerful symbol of self-reflection and the quest for identity, emphasizing the dissonance between how one perceives oneself and how one wishes to be seen. The assurance "I will be there in the mirror with you" conveys a message of support and solidarity, promising presence and understanding in times of self-doubt and isolation.

The closing lines signal a shift towards empowerment and liberation, marking a significant turning point in the narrator's journey. The declaration "I am older, I am grown, I am free" signifies a reclaiming of agency and a newfound sense of freedom, suggesting that the experiences and challenges faced have culminated in a stronger, more self-assured individual.

Overall, the lyrics are a poignant exploration of the struggles and triumphs of growing up, offering a message of hope and resilience. They touch on the importance of self-acceptance, the value of personal growth, and the power of standing by oneself through life's challenges.

 

Fictional Story Based on the Lyrics

Reflections of Resilience: A Journey Through the Mirror

Created by Indie Mastered

Copyright 2024 Nathalie Miranda

In a quiet town painted with the pastel hues of yesteryears, there lived a girl whose life was as unremarkable as the faded wallpaper adorning her childhood bedroom. She was young, just a child, navigating the labyrinth of growing up with only her shadows for company. No one had prepared her for the trials ahead, for the pain that growing up would bring, tearing through her safe little world like a storm unbidden.

She couldn't grasp why life, with its capricious whims, hurled challenges like a relentless barrage, leaving her to seek refuge in the crevices of her fractured dreams. It felt as if the world moved on, leaving her behind, like a page in a book that refused to turn, her voice lost in the cacophony of the unheard.

With each passing day, she faced the mirror, a ritual in search of answers. But the reflection that stared back wore a mask of unfamiliarity, the pieces of her identity scattered like a puzzle unsolved. In her solitude, she whispered vows into the void, promises to the reflection that she yearned to recognize once more.

As time wove its intricate tapestry, the girl found herself caught between the chimeras of her dreams and the stark reality of expectations. She chose to retreat, a shadow amongst shadows, her tears the silent testament to the parts of her that faded into oblivion. Yet, in the depths of despair, the echoes of her resolve lingered, a memory that refused to be extinguished.

In the darkest hours, when hope seemed but a distant flicker, a voice emerged, soft yet unyielding. It spoke of solidarity, of a presence unwavering, a promise to stand by her side, to be the companion in the mirror when the world turned its back. "For everything I couldn't do," the voice vowed, "I will be there, in the mirror with you."

Years tumbled like the leaves of autumn, and the girl, no longer a child, found strength in her reflection. The shards of her identity, once scattered, began to align, painting a portrait of resilience and freedom. She realized that the journey through the mirror was not one of solitude but of discovery, a path leading her to embrace the myriad facets of her being.

She emerged, not as the girl she once was, but as a beacon of self-assurance, her voice now a melody that resonated with the strength of her spirit. "I am older, I am grown, I am free," she declared, her reflection a testament to her journey from the shadows into the light.

And so, the story unfolds, a narrative woven from the threads of pain, growth, and redemption. It's a tale that speaks to the heart of every soul who has faced the mirror, searching for the pieces of themselves, only to discover that within them lies the power to shape their destiny, to be the architect of their freedom.