Marya Roxx - Interview

Marya's new album Payback has got all the rock music journalists in a spin, with her almost Joan Jett vocal style winning her new fans worldwide. Marya has always shown a musical talent, but it's only recently that it looks like she's thankfully, finally found herself. We count ourselves very fortunate to get a chance to speak to Marya in her busy schedule.

You showed your natural music talent at a very young age, 7 years old, winning “Laulukarusell". Who inspired you to start singing, and how supportive were your parents?

I was singing even before that at kindergarten events and at home with my mother who was a music teacher. Also, my father was a performer and could sing very well, so it came naturally that I had similar interests and aspirations. My parents nourished my talent and are still very supportive even right now.

When did you start playing Bass and Saxophone, and do you still play?

I started studying saxophone at 11 years old and at 16 I tookup an interest in bass. I still play and compose my music on bass, but I just picked up saxophone again after 5 years hiatus. I also play piano as well.

In previous bands the style was somewhat different, did you have to reign yourself in a bit?

I suppose you have to make compromises in your life every now and then, but there came a point when it was too much, so I needed to do something different and more exciting.

You were due to do a show in Leicester but it was cancelled, are there plans to tour the UK again soon?

Yes definitely sometime this year, I love performing in UK!

How did you come across Phantom Blue’s “Time to Run”, and what was it about that song that inspired you to do a cover version? Have you had any feedback from their singer, Gigi?

It is actually a crazy story – I was at home packing to go to LA first time and VH1 was on, and there it was – the first chords of "Time To Run!" I had never heard that song before and knew nothing about Phantom Blue but, boy was I excited about that song! I mentioned it later to Kevin ‘Caveman’ Shirley when we were recording in the studio and he was thrilled about doing the cover. So it was definitely meant to be ..: ) I haven’t managed to contact any of the band members though, but I hope they like my version of it .

On Payback Time, do you have a favourite track(s), and if yes, what is/are the story(ies) behind it (them)?

I love all of them , to be honest... the only difference is performing them live. I guess “Rebel”, “Filth” and “Loverboy” have a great groove in them and they put me in the perfect show mood. All my songs have something’s in common (powerful melody and in- your -face lyrics) and something’s different, but it is clear that, I been through a lot and now I just want to have a good time doing the music I love.

You have a great set of experienced accomplished musicians supporting you, how much influence have they had on your performances and have they perhaps given you the opportunity to come at things from a different perspective you may not have considered before?

They have all had great influence on me and I am always interested in different ideas, but in the end it always came down to what Kevin and I had envisioned for my music.

What have been the highlights of your tours, and what have been the biggest challenges?

Biggest challenge is always being away from my family, but we have Skype, so things are a lot better because of it. And I can’t wait until my daughter will join me in my band ! : )

Are there any concerts or venues that you would love to perform at but haven’t as yet, and are there any bands you’d love to share a stage with?

I would just love to do more outdoor venues and it would be always fun to tour with Metallica, Korn or even AC/DC .

How difficult has it been in balancing your professional career and personal / family life?

It is hard, but nothing is impossible. My family always comes first so I always want to make sure everyone is happy.

If Dora-Liisa decides to pursue a similar career, what advice would you be giving her?

Stay true to yourself; be strong go after things for the right reasons.