There have been a few pop songstresses in my generation (I am a young and awesome male in my late twenties) who have actually made a huge impact on the music industry. Amy Winehouse has always been and still will remain one of my all-time heroines (no pun intended)…
However, recently I had the opportunity to hear a new girl in town called Maria Evangelou. Her new single “Mr Right” made me jump around, dance for joy and feel like I just could be the one she is looking for!
Ok, enough of that… Apart from the fact that Maria is stunning and has a sensational voice, she is also super fun and interesting to talk to… I had a chance to e-chat with her recently and here’s the outcome of it:
Hi Maria, lovely to e-meet you! For those who are not familiar with your sound, how would you best describe it?
I’d say it’s a mix of 60’s style pop, jazz and soul fused together with a modern alternative twist. I think most people can relate to the songs I write.
Who are your main influences in life and music?
In life, I’d say my family who have always encouraged me to follow my dreams. I wouldn’t be doing this if it wasn’t for their support through the years.
In music, I have so many! They would include: Nina Simone, Smokey Robinson, Etta James, The Shirelles, Bruno Mars, Michael Jackson
Quite eclectic taste in music (and men?)! How did you start making music?
I’ve been singing from a very young age. I grew up surrounded by music and dance in the house. My uncle is a musician so whenever we would have parties, there would always be live music. My mum played all types of different styles of music when I was growing up and my dad had a great Motown record collection which I still listen to now! When I was about 13, my mum had enough and took me to a singing teacher for lessons. I also took up piano lessons and after that they couldn’t shut me up…LOL
That’s a good thing though! What would you say has been the biggest highlight in your career so far and why?
The biggest highlight so far was doing a sold out show at one of the main theatres in the London Borough of Enfield, (The Dugdale), where I’ve grown up. It was great to have such amazing support from the local community and such a great response to my music.
What has been the biggest disappointment and why?
I’ve had ups and downs like anyone, but I have quite a thick skin. I try to turn any negatives into positives and use it to make myself become a better artist and a better person (after I’ve sulked about it for about a day or two of course). LOL
Interesting way to avoid answering the question:) What does your songwriting process look like and where/ when do you feel most inspired to write?
My songwriting pattern changes depending on how I’m feeling, what I’m doing etc. Sometimes I could just be driving and BAM something will hit me and ill have to record a little bit of the melody on my phone and then run back to my piano and finish it off. It may be lyrics first or sometimes I just feel a little hook and can hear a whole song in my head. But I could be anywhere and just randomly start writing out a tune.
Your next single Mr Right will be out soon. What is is about?
It’s about realising that you don’t have to waste time running around, trying to make someone care about you, when they obviously don’t, and not settling for second best. But instead just enjoy your life, don’t try so hard and the right person will find you.
Why did you choose Mr Right as your next single?
I really like the vibe of Mr Right, It’s a feel good song with a catchy beat and people seem to really enjoy it, and can relate to it.
Do you prefer to record or perform live?
Even though I enjoy recording you can’t beat the feeling you get when you get out on stage and perform live. I like the interaction from the audience.
What’s your biggest dream to achieve out of music and why?
My biggest dream would be for people all over the world to be enjoying my music and listening to me sing. There’s just no better feeling than someone being able to connect with your music and your voice.
What can we expect from Maria after the single is out?
I’m currently working on an EP with some more new material which I can’t wait for people to hear.
Tell us a random fact about yourself that not many people know.
I used to dance Salsa professionally.
Thanks so much to Maria Evangelou for taking the time to e-talk to me. For those who have not heard the single yet, please click here now:
