Check out our interview with singer-songwriter Faith Marie who just released her new single “Alleyways” today! (January 25th).
Written by Faith, “Alleyways” is about a pivotal point in one’s transition into adulthood. She elaborates “I realized in order to grow, I had to let go of other people’s ideas of me and explore the parts of myself I was afraid to address and take responsibility for my trauma and healing.” The synth and guitar heavy sounds, paired with ominous echoes of different musical elements and vocals, is meant to represent the drive needed to walk into the unknown while still facing the unease of what you’ll find in the process.
Follow Faith @faithmarie.j
Describe yourself in 3 words?
Understanding
Introspective
Creative
We’re sure you have been asked this a million times, but what (or who) influenced you to get into the music industry?
I’ve always loved music and singing. Nothing specifically ever got me into it besides my parents always being super supportive and nurturing that love for music I had by taking me to concerts of various bands I was obsessed with and pushing me to create.
How has this changed your life?
I think anyone who’s a creative would say their dream would be to be able to make a living from their music, and I’m so grateful to say that I’m at a place where my music can support me. I’ve also met some really wonderful and talented people through collaborations and the public connecting to my music and I hope to continue to meet more.
Describe your sound in 3 words?
Symphonic
Synthwave
Haunting
Do you play any instruments?
I play guitar and piano. I’d love to play cello someday.
Tell us about your new single “Alleyways?”
It’s a part of my upcoming EP called More Than I Am. The three songs connect to tell the story of self discovery and self compassion. “Rock Bottom” (the first single of the EP) is self explanatory as I start out at the lowest of lows, but instead of wallowing, I wanted to share my outlook on how while pain and darkness is an awful reality of our lives, it’s also what can shape us into better versions of ourselves if we let it. “Alleyways” is the second single on the EP that continues the story “Rock Bottom” left off on.
What’s the story behind the song?
It’s about the process of facing the shadowy parts of myself that I had trouble confronting because of my intense need to people please. At the end of the day, you’re left with yourself; and how can you make peace with that if you’ve never taken the time to truly know yourself, your triggers, and why you are the way you are?
What is the most rewarding part of your work?
Being able to connect with so many people who feel heard when listening to my music. I was shocked at the amount of people leaving paragraphs in my DMs about their own personal connection to my songs. Just the fact that they take the time out of their day to share that is incredible. I can’t wait to go on tour and physically be able to talk to them as well.
What would you say are the greatest lessons you’ve learned so far?
There’s always someone out there who knows what you’re going through. We’re all connected to an extent and I find peace in that.
What advice would you give to your younger self and why?
For the love of god, no one cares as much as you think they do. Make mistakes, enjoy life and stop caring about appeasing people.
If you are a book, what would be the title of the book and why?
Probably the title of my EP “More Than I Am.” It’s very representative of my life journey so far.
What’s next for Faith Marie in 2023?
LOTS of music and trying to live authentically.
What is your favorite healthy food?
I make this vegan version of a Korean stew called doenjang jjigae (it’s like this tofu stew) and it’s seriously one of my favorite meals hands down.
And your favorite cheat food?
Probably takis. Or vegan ice cream.
What is your own definition of happiness?
For me it’s very simple, laughing with my family and friends and being with my animals.
If you could meet someone living or dead, who would it be and why?
Probably Quincy Jones. I’d want to ask him about everything music related and just about his life in general.
Best advice ever given?
I always had a lot of social anxiety because I was so scared of accidentally hurting people’s feelings. This also led to a lot of over-explaining when I would talk, to avoid misunderstandings and all around it took a lot of energy. I got advice from a therapist saying that people are responsible for their own feelings and to communicate those feelings to you. If they don’t, then assume the best.
Where do you see yourself and your career in 5 years from now?
I hope to be well traveled and have branched out into a lot of different sounding music. I don’t like staying in one place for too long physically and musically.
Current favorite song? Why?
“The Death Of Peace of Mind” by Bad Omens. I generally really like Bad Omens but this song I just love the mix between punk and synth wave, two of my favorite genres.
Where can we follow you on social media?
INSTAGRAM | WEBSITE | SPOTIFY | YOUTUBE | TWITTER | FACEBOOK | TIKTOK
Book: The Book of Joy
Quote: “If you want to change the world, start off by making your bed.”— William H. McRaven
Movie: Gone Girl
Tv Series: Avatar the Last Airbender
Food: Korean food
Travel Destination: Japan
