Interview: Marsha Bartenetti

Congrats on your recent music release!

How did your musical journey begin? What initially sparked your interest in music?

I’ve been singing since High School. It amazed me sometimes that I am still singing and creating after all these years, but, as an artist, my work changes as my life changes. The core of who I am is intact, but the influences and my life experiences have broadened and deepened my performances.

Can you describe some of the pivotal moments or turning points in your artistic development?

Pivotal moments include getting married, getting divorced, losing loved ones, losing parents, all contributing to my looking deeper inside to find purpose; to become more empathetic to the human condition.

How have your musical tastes and influences evolved over time?

Absolutely. I hear some of my early recordings to a voice that is so pure and innocent sounding. That is really the beauty of singing. That as we grow, our “sound” grows. The voice is directly connected to the heart and through the voice the heart speaks. So, as our response to life broadens, so, too, does the timbre of our voices.

Are there any specific experiences or challenges that have shaped your artistic identity?

Again, the compilation of years of life and experience have certainly shaped my career tapestry.
Experiencing the death of someone I loved, unexpectantly, slammed me into an awareness of the fragility of life. And stopped me in my tracks about “What’s it all about?” And that is just one example.
The loss, the grief, was present in the songs I started to sing after that. So, like fine, aged wine, the more one experiences in life the more one has to draw from to give depth and soul to a song from a truthful place. And you can’t fake it. You have to be fearless in using your life’s awareness in your material.

What role does experimentation play in your creative process?

I love being in the studio with musicians willing to experiment with sounds, rhythms, that I may not have thought of. To be able to play.

Can you share a particularly meaningful or memorable performance or recording session from your journey?

I smiled when you asked this question because I have had so many amazing and meaningful sessions along the way, but, one, in particular stands out. I had been away from the music business for several years and wanted to get back into singing. I needed a recording of my music to use for booking live gigs in L.A. I serendipitously reconnected with my good friend who I had been in a band with in high school after many years, Donny Marrow. He was recording some people in Nashville and invited me to come and record not only one tune…but a CD! I was very nervous. It had been forever since I had been in a studio. When I stepped up to the mic to record my first vocal it was like I had come home. My heart just expanded. It was incredible and magical. We’ve been recording every year (except during COVID) since.
That first song was the cover of “I Cant Make You Love Me” which is on my CD “It’s Time.”

Are there any recurring themes or concepts that you find yourself exploring in your music?

My recurring theme is really about connecting to or reconnecting to your heart. And to feel deeply.

How do you stay inspired and motivated to create new music?

I will always find material to sing about. Music is a healer. And possibilities are endless.

Looking back on your journey so far, what are some lessons or insights you’ve gained about yourself as an artist?

Don’t question your contribution. Everyone is unique and brings their own special point of view to material. Be courageous to share it. At the end of the day, it all melts into our humanity and you just may sing a word or a phrase that helps someone through a tough time. Or brings a smile to someone’s face. Or remind them who they are.

Also: This is a very tough business, and there are plenty of “No’s”. Remember each one gets you closer to “Yes.”
And
REST. But don’t QUIT.