Check out our interview with talented LA based singer and songwriter Taydee Marie.
With her passion for storytelling, she pulls you in and you can’t stop listening. She brings passion and a little bit of soul into all of her music projects.
Follow Taydee @taydeemarie
Hi Taydee, please tell us a little about you?
A notable thing about myself that impacted my life and ability to have the tough skin that I need to make it in the music industry is that I am dyslexic. This made for a rough childhood and miserable school years. It was thru the pain of my early years that I was able to turn my feelings into songs and become more than just a singer. I love performing and have been putting on shows in the living and anywhere else I could find a stage since I could walk. I am so grateful that the stars aligned for me to be able to do what I love for a living.
Describe yourself in 3 words?
Creative, eccentric & caring.
We’re sure you have been asked this million times but how did you get in the industry?
I always knew that I would pursue a career in music but I didn’t know exactly where to start so I co-founded a rock band. After a year & half I realized that even though I love rock it’s not a thriving genre for this generation and it wasn’t really who I wanted to be. I left the band and began modeling & started to pursue the solo pop career that I knew I wanted. I started doing open mics and shows in & around LA. But my biggest break so far has come thru modeling. One connection led to another and eventually I met Multi-Platinum Producer Andrew Lane. We worked together on a music video and afterward I signed with him as my manager and producer. He’s been amazing to work with and with his experience and connections I expect to go far. Together we have completed 5 songs that will be released as singles. When our country opens back up I will begin touring.
Describe your sound in 3 words?
Soulful, jazzy and pop.
Who influenced you and why did you choose to make music?
I never had any major specific influences. I listen to pretty much every genre and try to learn as much as I can from each one. This might sound a little cheesy, but I honestly believe music choose me. It’s literally my life and I can’t do any thing else.
Do you play any instrument?
Yes, I’ve been playing piano since age 15.
Do you ever get nervous?
Yes, a lot actually, but not from performing. The pressure of society norms makes me nervous.
Tell us about your new single “I’m On Top?”
I take on a whole new version of myself when writing pop music. “I’m On Top” is about a toxic relationship which I’ve never been in, but my friends have. I wanted to write from a first person perspective of how I wish my friends would respond to the negativity. Like, “if you don’t think I’m good enough then I’m gone, but don’t try and come back in my life when I’m better without you.
What’s the story behind this song?
I like to make up stories. I’m like a sponge, anything anyone tells me I add to my memory bank and then use a version of that in my music. I’ve never been in a toxic relationship, but I know a lot of people who have. I was inspired by their stories for this song.
Did you had plans/concerts planned and cancelled because of COVID? If so have you done any online concerts or interaction with your fans?
Unfortunately yes, like so many other artist I have had shows cancelled. I’ve done my best to stay positive and have considered myself being “under construction.” I’ve been using this time to become a better artist writing songs, recording and rebranding my online presence. I have been staying connected with going live on Instagram and Tiktok which is like playing a show, but more intimate.
Which project is still on your bucket list?
Going on tour with Live Nation and performing at Coachella.
What is fun and rewarding about what you do? And what’s not?
The fun part is performing for a crowd and impacting them with my music. And I could sit and write at my piano all day and night. I also love recording with my producer. What I don’t love doing is social media. I do it because I know it is vital to my career, but as an old soul it is very difficult for me.
What’s next for Taydee Marie in the last months of 2020?
So far 2020 has been so unpredictable that it’s difficult to give show & tour dates. But one thing for certain is that I’m going to keep working and doing whatever I have to do to make sure everyone hears my songs and knows my name!
What is your favorite song? And why?
This is a hard one! I don’t really have a favorite song. I love music so much that my fav songs change daily. If I have to choose right now I would say, Dancing On My Own, by Robyn Patrik Berger and I love the cover of it by, Calum Scott. I love the raw emotion & passion of this song.
Any loves other than music?
God, family, friends, my cat Benji & Mexican food.
If you could meet someone living or dead, who would it be and why?
I would like to meet Amy Winehouse and Kurt Cobain. I’m so inspired by there music, their voices and writing ability. I would like to meet them and ask them not to leave us so soon and to keep sharing their gifts with the world.
Best advice ever given?
Work hard and never give up no matter what.
How’s a typical day in your life?
First thing I do is my read my daily devotional, workout, make social media content, write music and repeat.
Name one your strengths?
Writing. I have always loved that aspect of music more than anything. It’s therapy for me.
Idea of a perfect Sunday?
Go to church, with my family and the beach with friends and relax.
What is you favorite song to belt out in the car/for karaoke?
I have so many! Top two would be, “Don’t Stop Believing” by Journey and “Before He Cheats” by Carrie Underwood for karaoke. When I’m in my car I like to listen to passionate sad songs. Definitely some Adele for sure.
What is your own definition of happiness?
Feeling whole and confident in who I am.
Do you support any charities?
Yes, I think that it’s so important to look outside yourself and help others. My first two years in California I interned at a non-profit organization known as the Los Angeles Dream Center. Their mission is, “to connect broken people to a community of support by providing free resources and services that address immediate and long-term needs in the areas of homelessness, hunger, poverty, addiction, abuse, education and human trafficking”. Helping others doesn’t just help them, it is one of the best things you can do for your own mental health. I still donate to the organization and help when I can.
What is your favorite healthy food?
I like to make a wrap with a whole wheat tortilla, spinach, tomato, cucumber, avocado, salt, pepper and olive oil. So easy and delicious!
And your favorite cheat food?
I can throw down on some Mexican food! My favorite cheat meal is at a restaurant called, Salsa and Beer. If you haven’t had it, go there and thank me later.
What would be a deal breaker on a first date?
If the person was a jerk to me or to anyone. I’m all about kindness and if your are not a nice person that is a huge turn off.
How do you see yourself in 5 years?
Having sold out concerts and writing music for not only myself but other artist as well. And being a positive role model to young people everywhere.
How would you describe your fashion style?
I love fashion so I’m constantly trying out new looks! I love make up and dressing up, which works for my modeling and pop music career. But my daily style is athletic wear and natural or no make up look.
What do you think of Social Media?
I have a love hate relationship with it. I love that it connects me to people from literally all over the world and that I can have friendships even in distance. But I also think it can disconnect us from the people that are close to us, and cause us to compare ourselves to others. Everything in life is about balance. Too much of a good thing isn’t always a good thing.
Where we can follow you?
Please follow me on Facebook, Instagram, Tiktok, and YouTube.
Quote: “Everyone is a genius. But if you judge a fish by its ability to climb a tree, it will live its whole life believing that it is stupid.”
Movie: The Goonies
Travel Destination: Brazil
Sports Team: Jiu-Jitsu
