From Massachusetts to Malta, Marcie Joy, singer-songwriter, is one talented lady. She’s performing live end this week, February 25th at Blackout 2011 alongside DJ Ruby, Ira Losco, and more.
She’s had Top 10 major label dance releases worldwide, (Armada, Warner, Flashover, Blackhole,
and more) and has performed live at major parties and events around the world, (including Luminosity at Trance Energy, Armada WMC opening night with Markus Schulz, Boston Fashion Week Opening Night party, and more). Armada describes her vocals as sweet and seductive. In addition to her live performance in Malta, Marcie is working with Maltese DJ and Producer, Toby, along with some other Malta based artists, so we may get to see a whole lot more of her on the islands. Here’s Marcie in her own words for MIO.
What was your favourite record as a child?
Michael Jackson – Thriller. I made up a dance to it, and performed for kids in my neighborhood. I had the one sparkly glove, and I served Pretzels at the performance.
How did you get into dance music?
I’ve always sung. I grew up studying voice, piano, and dance, was in rock bands all through University, and trained in musical theater. I started to truly focus on songwriting for dance music about 5 years ago. I became immersed in the EDM scene, and really grew to love it. I’m grateful to have a non-EDM background because I think it brings some versatility to my songwriting. I still love to work in other genres, but EDM is my favorite. I have so many happy feelings associated with dance music
What’s been the highlight of your career till now?
Performing in Malta is definitely a highlight as a performer. As a songwriter, I really enjoyed working with Gianluca Motta. Also, I had an amazing time writing ‘World’s End’. We had a concept for the track right from the start, and saw it through to completion. It’s a track dedicated originally to Athlete’s in the World Cup, but extends beyond that to relate to people everywhere who are passionate about life.
Who do you admire? (in your genre or from any walk of life)
I love the singers who tell stories with their voices, and are distinctive both on stage and off. There are people I meet every day that I admire, from old friends to strangers. Most people are doing their best to survive and be happy. I will also mention my parents. They are always there for me to help keep my confidence up, and to remind me how far I have come. I have watched them work incredibly hard over the years, and they have inspired me to stay tough, keep pushing, and not be afraid to fall. Every step forward is an accomplishment, and sometimes we have to go backwards to go forward.
What’s your idea of a perfect day?
A nice walk in the morning, then 8 hours of studio work with no interruptions. Finishing up early evening with a sense of a job well done, and going for dinner or dancing with friends. This kind of day does not happen often.
Beer, wine or fruit juice or other?
I’ve been getting into dark beers, which I never used to like. I like notes of coffee or chocolate. I also love an espresso martini.
What are you working on at the moment?
Quite a few new things. I’ve been pushing myself stylistically, and I hope the new tracks I’m writing will have surprising elements for my audience. I’ve got some trance releases coming up, as well as some dirty cheeky vocals.
You’ve collaborated with a whole bunch of leading EDM names and have support from another who’s beaten a path to Malta, (twice now), Markus Schultz. Do you feel you have a unique sound when you collaborate or is it a case of ‘being flexible’ and learning to adapt each time?
Every collaboration is unique. There is something in a song that exists solely as a result of fusing particular individuals at a specific point in time. I learn something new from everyone I work with, and it’s always a case of being flexible, and also recognizing who can push me to be better. A good collaboration will challenge everyone involved, and have solid communication where everyone feels open to try new ideas, make mistakes, and give and take constructive criticism.
Why Malta, why now?
I’ve wanted to come to Malta for awhile now! Some of my favorite vocalists have performed on the island, (Kirsty Hawkshaw, Jennifer Rene, Emma Hewitt, among others). Everyone I have met from Malta has been so nice, and there seems to be an incredible energy and enthusiasm for dance music. It seems like a dance music utopia.
Tell us two things that fascinate you about the island.
For a small island, there are a lot of parties all the time! I wonder when people sleep? I’ve read about some of the archeological history. I’d like to see sites like The Prehistoric Temples.
Do you think a small island like Malta is a feature on the global dance calendar?
I think Malta already is of significance on the dance calendar. There are amazing events going on all the time, and the list of world renowned dance artists who have performed on the island is massive. Plus, there is some great dance music production work coming out of Malta. I think it makes sense that an island with an active club scene, and steady exposure to live performances would breed upcoming producers with an ear for what works, and what is fresh.
What should we have asked you?
I’d love to tell you about ‘Behind The Lyric’. It’s a radio show I produce featuring artists telling the stories behind their dance tracks. I created ‘Behind The Lyric’ because there are so many EDM tracks whose lyrics truly speak to me! I wanted to create a dialogue between listeners and Songwriters. Songwriters spend hours pouring their heart and souls into a tune, and it’s worth taking some time to focus on the craft of songwriting, and point out the personal tales that inspire a lyric, and the behind the scenes studio life. I love the feedback I get from listeners. There’s a deep dialogue happening between listeners and artists as a result of the show. There is a lot of mutual respect and support going around, which has been inspiring and heartwarming for me to see
What are you doing at this moment?
I’m packing my suitcase for Malta! As usual, I’ve packed too many shoes.
More on Marcie
Marcie’s Message To Malta- Live @ Blackout 2011
Blackout 2011 Official Promo Video
Marcie’s Homepage: http://www.webmarcie.com
Behind The Lyric: http://www.behindthelyric.com
Armada Artist Spotlight: http://www4.armadamusic.com/news/2009/04/2547/
Marcie on Beatport: http://www.beatport.com/artists/marcie