Fiona Marais Visits Section 36 Music!

Another visitor to Section 36 Music! Fiona Marais is a fantastic artist whose recent EP, "Lovely, Bejeweled, & Messy", is one you should be listening to on repeat. I was thrilled she was willing to visit with us to discuss the EP, her musical goals, and more!

So, let's see what happens when Fiona Marais visits Section 36 Music!

Your recent EP, “Lovely, Bejeweled, & Messy”, is simply wonderful. What can you tell me about it?

After graduating high school, I took a gap year to experience work, travel, and pursue my love of music. The first half of my year, along with working retail, I started to write music. I’ve always loved poetry and writing, and with more time on my hands I combined it with my love of singing. That’s when I wrote my first single, “Bonnie,” inspired by my grandma. This project was what made me realize music is truly the thing that fulfills me and while studying abroad, I decided to apply and audition for Berklee. The summer of 2024, I wrote and composed the rest of my EP. I’m extremely grateful for my dad who has a passion for music and recording, as he helped me to record and produce the EP. “Lovely, Bejeweled, and Messy” is a snapshot in time of my mind and creative process in that part of my life, and a starting point I will use to improve and grow with my music.

What was your favorite part of the recording process?

My favorite part of the recording process was really seeing and hearing what I had in my mind come to life in the studio. Some songs are very simple, with only voice and piano, while others we experimented with more pop and drum beats. Being able to explore and try new sounds is such a high, and being able to have a timeless recording of your voice is a treasure that you are able to look back upon. 

What should I know about "Brunch"?

Being at Berklee College of Music is such a cool experience, as I am constantly surrounded by other creative minds. Mid October 2024, I was reached out to by a peer who was starting a band and had a professional recording session coming up and needed a lead singer. The band would be jazz, indie, and pop, and I agreed as it was such a cool experience I will forever cherish. The band consists of 9 members, with a horn section, piano, guitar, drums and bass. We always rehearse every Sunday, and that’s where the name Brunch comes from. We’re currently writing and composing some original songs, and will be releasing the rest of the covers from the recording session. We’re also going to be doing gigs staring in January, so we’d love for people to come hear us perform!

Who or what would you say are your biggest musical influences?

I have had so many musical influences throughout my life, but my biggest ones are probably Sara Bareilles, Amy Winehouse, Stevie Nicks, Lizzy Mcalpine, and from a personal standpoint, my dad. Sara Bareilles has forever been a vocal hero to me, I’ve been listening and loving her music for as long as I can remember. For songwriting, Lizzy Mcalpine’s style and creativity are what I aim for. Both of my parents are teachers, but my dad is a musician on the side and watching him perform at intimate restaurant gigs, or play music around the house definitely fostered who I am today as a musician. 

What is the biggest challenge you face when it comes to your music?

The biggest challenges for me at the moment are probably being seen, but I recently started working with Goathead Records in LA, who are helping to teach me how to produce and release my music and actually be seen. I’ve never wanted ultimate fame, but connecting people through my voice and my music are something I love and I want to do for the rest of my life.

What are your immediate music goals?

Currently I am working towards a second EP or album, and will release a few singles in the next few months. I’m very excited for everyone to hear what I’ve been working on, these songs are close to my heart.

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A second EP sounds amazing. I'm definitely excited to hear it!

As always, I want to thank Fiona for visiting with us, and for sending along the pictures to accompany the interview.

I'm sure you’ll all want to follow her and see what she has going on. I would follow her on Instagram, and Spotify to make sure you don't miss a thing. 

Thanks again Fiona, and good luck reaching your goals!