Meet Isa Marina

We recently connected with Isa Marina and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, so we’re so thrilled to have Isa with us today – welcome and maybe we can jump right into it with a question about one of your qualities that we most admire. How did you develop your work ethic? Where do you think you get it from?

My work ethic is deeply rooted in my upbringing and cultural heritage. Growing up in the Bronx, surrounded by the rich cultural influences of my Dominican and Afro-Cuban roots, I witnessed firsthand the resilience and determination of my family and community. My parents, who immigrated to the United States, worked tirelessly to provide a better life for us. Their relentless pursuit of their dreams despite numerous obstacles taught me the value of hard work and perseverance.

Additionally, my classical training in music under the tutelage of Marianela Sanchez instilled a strong sense of discipline and dedication. The rigorous practice routines and high standards set in the classical music world translated into my approach to contemporary music and my career as an artist. Every project, every song, and every performance is an opportunity to honor the sacrifices made by those before me and to inspire others to pursue their passions with the same fervor.

Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?

Thank you for the opportunity to share my story! I am Isa Marina, a singer-songwriter and classically trained dramatic soprano hailing from the Bronx, NYC. My music journey is a fusion of my Dominican and Afro-Cuban heritage, New York City’s vibrant culture, and years of rigorous classical training. I’m passionate about creating music that reflects my multifaceted identity, blending soulful roots with an edgy, contemporary sound.

What excites me most about my career is the ability to connect with people through music. My songs often explore themes of love, resilience, and self-discovery, resonating with a diverse audience. One of my proudest accomplishments is the release of my EPs, such as “Mirrors Volume I” and “True Colors,” which have been well-received by both fans and critics. These projects showcase my versatility and commitment to staying true to my artistic vision while pushing the boundaries of genre and style.

Currently, I’m focused on several exciting projects. Additionally, I’ve been developing a new series called “Behind the Lyrics,” where I break down the stories and inspiration behind my songs, offering fans a deeper connection to my music.

Beyond my artistic career, I’m also passionate about using my platform to foster empathy and unity within my community. I believe that music has the power to bring people together, and I strive to create content that not only entertains but also encourages awareness and understanding of global issues.

Thank you for your interest in my journey. I look forward to sharing more of my music and experiences with all of you!

There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?

Looking back, I believe three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in my journey are perseverance, versatility, and networking.

Perseverance: The music industry is incredibly competitive and filled with ups and downs. My perseverance allowed me to continue pushing forward despite the challenges. The advice I’d give to those early in their journey is to stay committed to their passion. There will be setbacks, but those who persist and continue to work hard will find opportunities and success.

Versatility: Being versatile has helped me adapt to various musical styles and roles, whether it’s singing, songwriting, performing, or developing my tech and digital media skills. It’s important to develop a wide range of skills and be open to experimenting with different genres and techniques. This versatility not only makes you more marketable but also enhances your creativity. It helps grow your confidence and refine your craft. Aspiring artists should embrace learning and constantly seek to expand their skill set.

Networking: Building a strong network of genuine connections has been crucial. Collaborations and mentorships have opened doors and provided invaluable support throughout my career. My advice for newcomers is to actively engage with the music community, attend events, and seek out opportunities to connect with other professionals. Networking can often lead to unexpected opportunities and collaborations that can significantly impact your career.

By focusing on these three areas, aspiring artists can build a solid foundation for a successful and fulfilling career in the music industry.

Before we go, any advice you can share with people who are feeling overwhelmed?

When I feel overwhelmed, I have a few strategies that help me regain focus and calm:

Taking Breaks: I step away from what I’m doing and take a short break. This could be a walk outside, some deep breathing exercises, or simply listening to music that relaxes me. It helps clear my mind and recharge my energy.

Prioritizing Tasks: I break down my workload into smaller, manageable tasks and prioritize them. Focusing on one thing at a time rather than trying to tackle everything at once makes it less daunting and more achievable.

Mindfulness and Meditation: Practicing mindfulness or meditation helps me stay grounded and present. It reduces stress and provides a sense of calm and clarity.

Talking to Someone: Sometimes, discussing my feelings with a friend, family member, or mentor can provide a different perspective and emotional support. It’s always good to have someone to lean on.

Self-Care: Ensuring that I take care of my physical and mental well-being is crucial. This includes getting enough sleep, eating well, and engaging in activities that I enjoy and that rejuvenate me.

Recognize the Signs: Be aware of your stress signals and take action before it becomes overwhelming.
Set Boundaries: Learn to say no when necessary and avoid overcommitting.

Practice Self-Compassion: Be kind to yourself and acknowledge that it’s okay to feel overwhelmed sometimes. Allow yourself the grace to take it slow and recover.

These strategies have helped me maintain balance and keep pushing forward even during the most challenging times.

Contact Info:

Image Credits

Adriana Tejeda
@bbeautybybarbie

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