Today we’d like to introduce you to Marlei Dismuke.
Hi Marlei, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
My love for singing started with a strong interest in music at the age of five. I took piano lessons for 3 – 4 years and started singing early on in school simply because I enjoyed it. I participated in choir for seven years and gained a love for performance and singing along the way. By the age of 16, I decided to take a leap of faith and fully pursue a singing career!
I am currently attending the University of Miami and studying how to be an independent artist and gaining knowledge and insight about the music industry so I can go in with a strong understanding of how everything works. I’ve worked nonstop at pursuing my dream by enhancing my skills. I’ve been expanding my knowledge of what it means to be an independent artist by learning more about the marketing side, the business side, and different sections of the music side as well. I am a self-taught producer, a songwriter, a pianist and a singer as well. I spend a lot of time trying to hone my skills, so I can be as hands-on as possible in the making of my career. I have just released my very first single, “Burn.” I’m very proud of my work and excited to share my music with the world.
We all face challenges, but looking back, would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
My musical journey has not been a smooth one. My parents weren’t excited about my decision to pursue a music career when I initially made my decision. When I went through my first two years of college at a community college, I was torn on whether or not my music career was achievable or even sustainable. I felt like I would have to pursue musical styles that didn’t truly fit me but were better accepted by colleges and universities and would help me land a job.
When I discovered the MADE program (Musicianship, Artistry, Development, and Entrepreneurship) at the University of Miami, I was excited to finally start taking steps in the direction I wanted my music career to go in. Sadly after I was accepted into the program, COVID surfaced and it put my progress on hold. The program was still going strong, but we were limited in the things we could do. Singing in person was not an option, and it was hard for me to make connections with the students and teachers. During that same year, I lost five family members and went through a lot of hardships with my mental health. All of these things combined made it difficult for me to focus on my music. But in the end, I realized that my music was something I could turn to during those times of hardship.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I am a voice teacher as well as a music student! I produce, write and sing all of my own music. On occasion, my songs will mirror multiple genres in one. I have a strong stage presence which makes my performances very immersive. I have a strong interest in graphic design and marketing, so managing my social media has been a strong creative outlet for my career. I have a specific brand that focuses on inclusivity and empowerment.
Do you have any memories from childhood that you can share with us?
My favorite childhood memory is when my father took my sister and me to the zoo. He would take turns putting my sister and I on his shoulders and would sing and harmonize “The Lion Sleeps Tonight” from the Lion King with us while looking at the exhibits. I truly believe he’s part of the reason why I enjoy singing so much.
Contact Info:
- Email: pitch2play@gmail.com
- Website: https://marlei.mailchimpsites.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marleidismuke/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MarleiDismuke/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCXrCHVmVUIVscpmIWkT1SrQ
- SoundCloud: https://soundcloud.com/marlei-dismuke
Image Credits
Elizabeth Bell
