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Solving the General MIDI Program Change Dilemma in Ableton

October 1, 2024

When working with MIDI in Ableton, one might notice that although MIDI clips can send program changes, most of Ableton's native plugins don’t seem to respond to these changes effectively. This can...

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Escaping 'Tutorial Hell': Stay Motivated and Actually Progress in Music Production

September 21, 2024

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Should You Write Music or Lyrics First? Solutions from Famous Creators

September 20, 2024

One of the most common challenges for songwriters is deciding whether to write the music or lyrics first. This can feel like a "chicken-or-egg" situation, but there's no one-size-fits-all answer...

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How to Plan the Perfect Release Day for Your Single or Album

September 20, 2024

Releasing a new single or album is a huge milestone for any musician. However, without proper planning, your work may not get the attention it deserves. It’s not just about putting the song online...

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Mastering the Low End: Compression Tips for a Tight Mix

September 20, 2024

When it comes to music production, getting the low end right can be tricky. Many producers face a common issue: after the initial mix sounds perfect, a few days later, the low end starts to feel...

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How to Turn a Bedroom into a Professional Home Studio on a Budget

September 19, 2024

For many aspiring musicians, the dream of creating a professional-quality home studio seems out of reach due to costs and space constraints. However, with the right strategies and tools, it's...

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Remote Music Collaboration: Tools and Tips for Seamless Production

September 18, 2024

Collaborating on music remotely has become more common, but as you’ve experienced, it can be a challenge to get it right. Audio latency, control sensitivity, and lack of real-time feedback are...

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How to Build a Loyal Fanbase Using Social Media in 2024

September 18, 2024

In today’s digital age, building a loyal fanbase is essential for musicians to thrive. Social media platforms have become powerful tools for connecting directly with fans, sharing music, and...

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Best Apps and Websites for Creating Instrumentals When You Don’t Play Instruments

September 18, 2024

As a songwriter, it can be frustrating to have melodies or lyrics in your head but no way to bring them to life without instrumental skills. Thankfully, with modern technology, there are apps and...

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How to Match Chords to Your Singing – Overcoming the Struggle

September 18, 2024

Creating music often feels like an intricate puzzle. You might have a melody that you love, but when it comes to pairing it with chords, you feel stuck. If you're in this situation, you're not alone.

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The Top 10 Free Tools Every Indie Musician Needs to Succeed

September 18, 2024

As an indie musician, creating professional music while sticking to a budget can be challenging. You might not have the resources to afford high-end software or pay for expensive marketing...

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Miley Cyrus Sued Over ‘Flowers’: The Fine Line Between Inspiration and Infringement

September 18, 2024

Music creators often walk a delicate line between drawing inspiration from their favorite songs and unintentionally infringing on the work of others. The recent lawsuit filed against Miley Cyrus...

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The Marías: Redefining Pop with Dreamy Elegance

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In a world of loud and fast-paced pop music, The Marías have emerged as a band that thrives on subtlety and sophistication. Known for their ethereal soundscapes, bilingual lyrics, and vintage aesthetic, the Los Angeles-based group has carved out a unique niche in the music industry. Blending genres like pop, jazz, soul, and psychedelic rock, The Marías create music that feels timeless yet refreshingly modern. Their rise is a testament to the power of authenticity, artistic vision, and embracing one’s individuality.

A Unique Beginning

The Marías were formed in 2016 when lead singer María Zardoya met drummer and producer Josh Conway in Los Angeles. María, originally from Puerto Rico, brought her sultry, bilingual vocals to the mix, while Conway’s production skills added layers of richness to their sound. Together, they built a band that prioritized collaboration and experimentation, pulling inspiration from diverse influences ranging from Sade and The Beatles to Latin rhythms and jazz.

Their debut EP, “Superclean Vol. I,” released in 2017, introduced the world to their signature sound: dreamy, minimalist arrangements paired with María’s hypnotic voice. Songs like “I Don’t Know You” captivated listeners with their soothing melodies and cinematic quality, setting the tone for what would become the band’s defining aesthetic.

Blurring Genre Boundaries

What makes The Marías stand out is their ability to blur genre lines seamlessly. Their music incorporates elements of soul, funk, indie pop, and even a touch of disco, all wrapped in a dreamy, cinematic package. Tracks like “Cariño” and “Hush” highlight their bilingual approach, effortlessly switching between English and Spanish to create a multicultural tapestry of sound.

Their 2021 debut album, “Cinema,” takes this genre-blending to new heights. The album, inspired by their love for film, feels like a soundtrack to a vivid daydream. Songs such as “Call U Back” and “All I Really Want Is You” showcase the band’s ability to transport listeners to another world, using lush instrumentals and María’s captivating vocals to evoke a range of emotions.

A Visual and Sonic Experience

Beyond their music, The Marías are known for their cohesive artistic vision, which extends to their visuals and live performances. Their vintage-inspired aesthetic—marked by bold colors, retro fashion, and dreamy lighting—complements their music perfectly, creating an immersive experience for fans. Music videos like “Hush” and “Cariño” are visual masterpieces, blending surreal imagery with the band’s signature elegance.

The band’s live shows are equally entrancing, emphasizing intimacy and atmosphere. With María’s magnetic stage presence and the band’s meticulous attention to sound, every performance feels like a personal connection with the audience.

Breaking Barriers with Bilingual Music

The Marías are part of a wave of artists proving that music transcends language. By seamlessly incorporating Spanish and English into their lyrics, they appeal to a diverse audience while celebrating their Latin roots. This bilingual approach not only broadens their reach but also adds depth to their storytelling, making their music feel more personal and universal at the same time.

A Band for the Modern Era

The Marías represent a new kind of pop band—one that values artistry over trends and intimacy over spectacle. Their ability to craft music that feels both nostalgic and forward-thinking sets them apart in a crowded industry. They’ve become a favorite for fans looking for music that’s as thoughtful and intricate as it is beautiful.