Martika How Did I Get Here Interview

How Did I Get Here

The enigmatic Martika has announced her debut single How Did I Get Here, a thoughtful, soulful track that explores the difficulties of chasing dreams.

How Did I Get Here is a mellow, contemplative track, with an undeniable groove and stunning, eclectic vocals. The chorus refrain, 'How did I get here? Am I coming, or going?' is sung so earnestly; it's impossible to ignore the pleading in Martika's voice. Gentle yet driving percussion percolates underneath a constant, melodic bassline, as organ and synthesisers swirl together with unexpected and satisfying harmony. Fans of Aurora and Massive Attack will love Martika's incisive style.

How Did I Get Here tackles the complexities of turning a passion into a career, as Martika explains, "This song explores the emotional journey of an artist; that lost feeling of being at a crossroads in life. I was unsure of which way to go. I found myself reflecting on my life and where I was, thinking that music should have brought me success at this point – and was it all worth it? It was then the decision of whether to keep on walking down the hard road, striving to make my passion a career, or to take the easy road and find stability. This song has helped me vent the frustration of what a struggling artist goes through, and has helped me find the strength to carry on."

Martika is set to perform How Did I Get Here for a hometown crowd in Melbourne on Thursday April 11 at The Toff in Town. Thrilled to be showcasing new music as well as her exciting new single, Martika gives fans an insight into what to expect at her shows, as she says, "Audiences can expect something entertaining and amazing, yet a show that makes everyone feel equal and at home – a family. I myself love going to a show where, as an audience member, you feel like a part of a community and united, rather than fighting for a spot in a crowd."

Martika is a natural-born performer; first discovering her passion for singing as a young child, dancing around the house to Disney soundtracks. Highly disciplined and passionate about performing, she spent most weeknights during childhood at singing lessons, piano lessons, dance classes spanning a wide variety of genres – and she even completed a degree in musical theatre upon finishing high school. Since her move to Melbourne from her country home town, Martika began gigging professionally and working alongside local label True Music (Shelley Segal, MAYA) and producer/composer Rob Upward. She spends her days in the studio, writing and growing creatively as a songwriter and artist. With so much talent to share, Martika is surely one new artist to watch.

Stream: How Did I Get Here

Martika How Did I Get Here Launch Show
THURSDAY 11 APRIL | THE TOFF, MELBOURNE VIC | 18+
Tickets available from www.thetoffintown.com

Interview with Martika

Question: How would you describe your music?

Martika: Dark Pop. Vibey. Lyrically emotional.

The beat and groove is very important to me, also giving you melodic basslines and layers upon layers of vocals and harmonies.


Question: What inspired the track, How Did I Get Here?

Martika: My single, 'How Did I Get Here', lyrically explores the journey and struggles of an artist; spotlighting my own personal struggles in the music industry. I was at a crossroads; should I keep going down the hard road of perusing my passion with all the uncertainties that come with it, or take the easy road out and opt for stability and a more financially abundant path?


Question: How does it feel to be compared to Lady Gaga?

Martika: Gaga is a huge influence to me, not just musically but also through fashion and what she stands for. It's not something I intentionally wanted to happen, as I stand strong that I stay true to who I am and being able to confidently express my individuality. To be compared to Lady Gaga I would take as an honour.


Question: What can we expect from the upcoming launch show?

Martika: You can expect to be thoroughly entertained by some amazing musicians with our support acts, Little Millar and Niine. You can also expect to be taken through an emotionally journey with my songs as I share myself through my lyrics and groovy basslines and melodic vocal lines. I want the audience to feel united through the music and the vibe of the night.


Question: Which is your favourite song to perform live and why?

Martika: Any song I can put my whole heart and soul into.


Question: If you could have anyone, in the world, attend a show, who would it be?

Martika: I've been trying to think of an answer for a while; answering funny but serious at the same time (as I would keel over with excitement if I ever met this person) would be Matt Bomer. DREAMY!
In all honesty the two people I would really love to attend would be my two grandmothers. They haven't seen me perform in so long as we live so far away now; it's hard for them to just travel to Melbourne any time. Regardless they have always been my biggest supporters and if they could they would be there in a heartbeat, every time. I would love for one day to maybe perform in my hometown so they do get the chance to attend a show!


Question: Do you prefer performing live or recording?

Martika: Both are so different, I like both. Recording is a very creative and experimental experience. Performing live is a chance to share that experience with others and feel the energy from that same crowd.


Question: What motivates you most when writing music?

Martika: I draw inspiration from the emotion that is conjured through listening to other artists and composers. Sometimes just meditating with a piece of music playing can bring up stuff you never think about, or emotions that lie hidden within the subconscious. I also rely on instinct and heart when finding what to write about.


Question: Which music/artists are you currently listening to?

Martika: Little Dragon
Ecca Vandel
Milan Ring
Tesseract
Paramore
Killswitch Engage
Chelsea Wolfe


Question: What or who was your inspiration to go into the music industry?
Martika: It's always been the dream. I don't remember a time when I hadn't wanted to be in this industry.


Question: If you could collaborate with another artist, who would it be?

Martika: One artist I've always wanted to collaborate with would be Rudimental; they seem like really fun guys and write some really great beats and catchy hooks.


Question: What's a typical day like?

Martika: My days this year are focused around my music. Either going into the studio to brainstorm or work with my producer/manager or rehearsing either at home on my own or with my band at a rehearsal studio. Music is my life.

I do have to find some time though to watch some episodes of my favourite TV shows within the week!


Question: What has been your favourite part of becoming a music artist?

Martika: Being able to express myself through something so universal.


Question: Can you share your socials?

Martika: Instagram - @martika_music
Facebook - @martikamusicofficial
Twitter - @tikamusicx


Interview by Brooke Hunter