Today we’d like to introduce you to Maryann Murray.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I’ve always loved performing; I’ve been singing since I was two. I had great directors and teachers in my life push my performance and vocal skills past what I thought was my limit. But I really had to take the time (am still taking the time) to understand the business behind what makes a successful music career.
A successful music career to me means being able to make money while genuinely doing what I love.
I was unbelievably naive and lost after graduating High School (2013). I was taking classes for a vocal performance degree and working- that’s it. I thought that was enough. I wasn’t getting to know myself, creatively. I wasn’t planning to write, sell songs, or make original content. I wasn’t educating myself on business nor was I networking. I expected my talent and cover songs to carry every other aspect of a career. I realized shortly after that superficial mindset, that I needed to treat myself as a brand and my voice as a business and that no one else will care if I don’t.
Since then, I’ve been networking and building with promoters, artists, producers, and developers. I ‘m always writing lyrics and brainstorming new content. I am currently in the stages of executing my own artistic sounds both in on stage and in the studio, as well as making sure I have a clear PR marketing/budgeting strategy before releasing. I want to push past my limits and doubts of branding myself just like I do with performing.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
Guidance in this business has been something I’ve yearned for and didn’t really discover until years after High School. I had to go out and find that. I’m always asking questions and open to learning.
I think many of us relate to a lack of guidance, financial troubles and insecurities that hinder us from showing our best potential!
Taking care of your mental and physical well-being is an important asset to any business, I believe. There is no shame in mental health. I think tons of artists, including myself, understand and have struggled with some form of mental health. A lot of the times, it’s what makes our art and bonds us as artists.
I think any start up is going to be rocky at first. Mistakes will be made; it’s just a matter of figuring out what went wrong, or in my case, what’s not resonating with my target audience/consumers and trying again. I’ve learned from others that the key is getting up more times than you fall and staying consistent.
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Maryann Murray – what should we know?
I am an R&B independent singer/songwriter from the Boston area. I am in the middle of recording my first EP with visuals. I’ve been doing features and writing hooks for local artists. Most recently, I’ve co-written and featured in local artist Massmoneyfaith’s EP titled “Love Me Now” (songs include “Body”, “Space Between Us” and “Feeling Good”). I’m also featured on Miren Studio’s song “Standby” with artist Nick Duffy. All of these songs are on mainstream platforms including Spotify, Apple and ITunes and Sound cloud- links can be found on my Instagram.
I have a social media presence- primarily on Instagram. I post singing/dancing/#bodypositivity and plus-size modelling photos and videos. I’ve been promoting myself as an artist as well. I recently posted about my experience with auditioning and making a few rounds for the show “The Voice”.
I like to engage with my audience as often as I can through social media- I think it’s a great tool. I am very candid, open and as honest as I can be in my posts and videos. I want to come off as approachable and genuine. There’s beauty in imperfections in both outer and inner parts of us and I’d like for my audience to witness that in me as well as themselves. Learning and growing never stops. I want people to see my process as an artist and person.
Any shoutouts? Who else deserves credit in this story – who has played a meaningful role?
-My sister/mother /friends/the Waltham community that I’ve known since I was young have been my biggest supporters.
-Voice teachers, Show Choir and Musical directors
-Michelle Lapoetica, an artist and mentor who also hosts “D.E.N.C.I.T.Y” which is a weekly open mic and poetry slam in Lynn
-Graybeard Recording Studio
-Massmoney Entertainment which is a brand and team of artists who build together
-mindtomatter617 on Instagram
-Other artists, producers, artist developers I’ve had the pleasure of meeting/seeing perform who inspire me daily through social media, content and live performances.
Contact Info:
- Email: maryannmurraymusic@gmail.com
- Instagram: @maryannmurraymusic
- Other: soundcloud.com/maryann-murray
Image Credit:
Michelle Lapoetica at DENCITY Open Mic
Vanessa Leroy Photography
mindtomatter617
Bristol Studios Open Mic
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