Today we’d like to introduce you to Donna Marie.
Donna, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
I first started performing in high school. It was mainly talent shows and musicals for drama class. I knew I wanted to be an entertainer of some sort but I wasn’t totally sure what route I was going to take. I’ve always loved musicals, so I thought maybe I would be on Broadway. It really wasn’t until half-way through college did I know for sure that I wanted to be a Recording Artist. My senior year of college, I started trying to write my own songs and recorded a couple things here and there, but was mainly just hanging out in a bunch of studios, seeing other artists record and watching how they worked. I really wanted to learn the business side of the industry too.
When I graduated college, I interned at Patchwerk Studios and that’s when I really started to get serious. I made it a priority to network, so when the time came for me to release something people would recognize my face at the very least. It took me a little while to release my first song because I was broke and all my money was going towards bills. But I finally put out my first song “Selfish” August of last year and just released my second single “Fantasy” in March. I’ve got a lot in store for 2020.
Has it been a smooth road?
It definitely hasn’t been easy. I struggled to find a job that could pay my bills and fund my music. It was also important that I could express myself creatively be it my hair or nails. I’m literally clocking out from my nine to five and then spending all the other time in artist mode. It’s hard to find that balance but I got lucky with my current situation. The goal is obviously to be an artist full time.
It’s also tough navigating a male-dominated industry. I’m all about my business and I make it known upfront. Still, you have to navigate through a lot of noise and a lot of BS to accomplish anything. You just have to know your end game and keep your blinders on.
We’d love to hear more about your work.
I’m a recording artist and songwriter. I’m definitely unique in a lot of ways, and I say that as humbly as possible. Idk, I hate giving myself compliments. I’d like to think my work speaks for itself. I’m a creative at heart but also very business-minded and have an entrepreneurial spirit. I really look forward to building my brand into an empire, a LEGACY.
Which women have inspired you in your life?
Quite a few. First and foremost my mother and sister. They are the two hardest working women I know.
Musically I’m inspired by Lauryn Hill, Sade, Amy Winehouse, Alicia Keys. There is a really special place in my heart for Etta James.
I also love women like Nina Simone and Eartha Kitt who were activists. They embody so much strength.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thedonndada/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/realdonnamarie/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/realdonnamarie
- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZUACoaKtMhy06OZbTkckjQ/featured
- Other: https://smarturl.it/DonnaMarie
Image Credit:
Fantasy Images – Ryan Stokes
Selfish Images – Yantay S.
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