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| Hometown | Ft Wayne, IN |
| Genres | |
| Band Members | Solo ~ Marnée ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~... » more |
| Achievements |
» more |
| Upcoming Shows | None |
| Contact Information: | |
| Performing Rights Society: | N/A |
MARNÉE ~ Singer / Songwriter / Guitarist
August 14, 2008 The Grand Opening of Lucas Oil Stadium, the Indianapolis Colt’s new home. Music legends John Mellencamp and Stephen Stills had finished their sets and Stephen announces Marnée to the stage to...
August 14, 2008 The Grand Opening of Lucas Oil Stadium, the Indianapolis Colt’s new home. Music legends John Mellencamp and Stephen Stills had finished their sets and Stephen announces Marnée to the stage to...
MARNÉE ~ Singer / Songwriter / Guitarist
August 14, 2008 The Grand Opening of Lucas Oil Stadium, the Indianapolis Colt’s new home. Music legends John Mellencamp and Stephen Stills had finished their sets and Stephen announces Marnée to the stage to perform while the roof opens for the first time. The torch passes as Marnée stuns the crowd with her amazing fret work and vocal performance. The audience gives her a standing ovation. MARNÉE WAS 11 YEARS OLD!
Earlier that year Marnée was recognized in CMJ magazine for her songwriting, vocals and performance skills, writing;
“Singer/songwriter Marnee sings very mature lyrics belying her 11 years of age with sweet whispering, yet full and rich vocals. Blending minimalist guitar and a spine tingling voice, “Down In The Valley” is entrancing and unique”.
Marnée's incredible guitar skills have earned her a sponsorship by Taylor Guitars.
Marnée’s musical performances have been featured on T.V. and radio, as well as many other media outlets. Her music is and has always been #1 in her life. This is what she insists on and it shows.
With numerous hours on the stage, Marnée’s love for her craft shines through with an energizing, euphoric vibe that shakes her audience. Marnée is simply doing something she loves.
Marnée is currently in the studio working on her second CD, an incredible follow up to her debut CD ‘WHEN THERE’S GRAVITY’.
August 14, 2008 The Grand Opening of Lucas Oil Stadium, the Indianapolis Colt’s new home. Music legends John Mellencamp and Stephen Stills had finished their sets and Stephen announces Marnée to the stage to perform while the roof opens for the first time. The torch passes as Marnée stuns the crowd with her amazing fret work and vocal performance. The audience gives her a standing ovation. MARNÉE WAS 11 YEARS OLD!
Earlier that year Marnée was recognized in CMJ magazine for her songwriting, vocals and performance skills, writing;
“Singer/songwriter Marnee sings very mature lyrics belying her 11 years of age with sweet whispering, yet full and rich vocals. Blending minimalist guitar and a spine tingling voice, “Down In The Valley” is entrancing and unique”.
Marnée's incredible guitar skills have earned her a sponsorship by Taylor Guitars.
Marnée’s musical performances have been featured on T.V. and radio, as well as many other media outlets. Her music is and has always been #1 in her life. This is what she insists on and it shows.
With numerous hours on the stage, Marnée’s love for her craft shines through with an energizing, euphoric vibe that shakes her audience. Marnée is simply doing something she loves.
Marnée is currently in the studio working on her second CD, an incredible follow up to her debut CD ‘WHEN THERE’S GRAVITY’.
Photos
Videos
Photos
Videos
June 2009 Live Performance Videos
June 2009 Roots Music Videos
May 2009 Roots Music Videos
June 2009 Live Performance Videos
June 2009 Roots Music Videos
May 2009 Roots Music Videos
May 2009 Live Performance Videos
November 2007 Solo Performance
October 2007 Solo Performance
September 2007 Solo Performance
December 2009 Judging Excellence
November 2009 Judging Excellence
August 2009 Judging Excellence
May 2009 Judging Excellence
March 2009 Judging Excellence
October 2008 Judging Excellence
Connector
10 & RISING FAST~ BIG THINGS AWAIT MARNEE by WHATZUP/Michelle DeVinney
Fort Wayne has proven to be a hotbed of musical talent, as the pages of whatzup prove each week. Each week dozens of talented local musicians play the clubs, bars and coffeehouses around town,...
Fort Wayne has proven to be a hotbed of musical talent, as the pages of whatzup prove each week. Each week dozens of talented local musicians play the clubs, bars and coffeehouses around town,...
10 & RISING FAST~ BIG THINGS AWAIT MARNEE by WHATZUP/Michelle DeVinney
Fort Wayne has proven to be a hotbed of musical talent, as the pages of whatzup prove each week. Each week dozens of talented local musicians play the clubs, bars and coffeehouses around town, attesting to the diverse range of musical variety and skill in the area. Recently one talent has emerged, however, that may well put Fort Wayne on the map. A new talent, at a surprisingly tender age, has just returned from Los Angeles and may find herself signed to a major label contract. What makes this story particularly interesting is that young Marnee Shaffer is only 10 years old. While many children that age may be finding themselves drawn to music and the possibility of playing an instrument in order to one day join a school band, Marnee is already well beyond that level. While it's a popular cliché to state that a child could sing before he or she could talk, Marnee's family says that hackneyed expression is true in this instance and they back it up with a story on her My Space bio. "At age three-and-a half," it reads, "Marnee went to a music store with her dad for guitar strings. Marnee's dad heard someone picking out scales on a piano next to him, as he was counting out change at the check out. The cashier asked how long 'she' had been in lessons. Thinking the cashier was talking to the customer next to him, he turned to see who was at the piano. He was stunned when he saw Marnee at the piano picking out scales. He looked at the cashier and could only reply 'That is the first time she has ever touched a piano.'" Soon after, she began asking for a guitar, which she received – in the form of a $10 model from eBay. From there Marnee began playing guitar and even writing her own songs, which proved enough motivation for the family to reward her with a more impressive model guitar for her eighth birthday, a 3/4 size Washburn. Now better armed for musical performance, Marnee began performing and competing in her elementary school's talent show. Since that early taste of performing, she has since won first place in a Talent Rock competition in Orlando, Florida in December and, closer to home, snagged first place performing in the Rising Stars competition this March. Her appearances haven't stopped there. Performing one of her own compositions, "Time Is Running Out," and supplementing it with material written by her father, Tom Shaffer, and several eclectic cover songs, Marnee became a fixture at open mic nights around town. While her covers range from Kansas ("Dust in the Wind") to Sixpence None the Richer ("Kiss Me"), it's no doubt her astonishingly mature originals that are winning her so much attention. "She's always writing new songs," says her proud father. "They're very profound, very deep. They're definitely something that you'd think a 10-year-old wouldn't be capable of writing about. People who hear her usually say that it sounds like she's lived three or four lives already." Aside from her singing and composing abilities, her early experience at the piano was a pretty good indicator of her natural talent as a player. Her family reports on her My Space page that even they didn't fully appreciate the level of her talent until a recent challenge was issued, something offered to keep her busy for awhile, but one that proved amazingly simple for the youngster. "Marnee becomes bored very easily and is always asking for a new challenge," her Internet bio continues. "After the Rising Stars competition Marnee asked her dad for a challenging song. He gives her 'Blackbird' by The Beatles. He tells her this song will be a good challenge and take her awhile to learn. She says she'll have it down in one day! He tells her he will give her $50 if she can . Though Marnee never ceases to amaze us, we were stunned when Marnee had the song down in six hours. Within two weeks, Marnee is playing 'Blackbird' in the dark." It's no wonder, with this level of accomplishment, that folks outside of Indiana are starting to take notice. In the meantime, Marnee continues to be a fairly normal schoolgirl, with a few major exceptions. One wonders how someone, at the age of 10, can handle all of this excitement. "She handles it by saying 'Umm, can I go play tonight,'" reports her father. Except when Marnee wants to play, it's a little different than when the average 10-year-old plays. Marnee's playing for an audience. 2007
Fort Wayne has proven to be a hotbed of musical talent, as the pages of whatzup prove each week. Each week dozens of talented local musicians play the clubs, bars and coffeehouses around town, attesting to the diverse range of musical variety and skill in the area. Recently one talent has emerged, however, that may well put Fort Wayne on the map. A new talent, at a surprisingly tender age, has just returned from Los Angeles and may find herself signed to a major label contract. What makes this story particularly interesting is that young Marnee Shaffer is only 10 years old. While many children that age may be finding themselves drawn to music and the possibility of playing an instrument in order to one day join a school band, Marnee is already well beyond that level. While it's a popular cliché to state that a child could sing before he or she could talk, Marnee's family says that hackneyed expression is true in this instance and they back it up with a story on her My Space bio. "At age three-and-a half," it reads, "Marnee went to a music store with her dad for guitar strings. Marnee's dad heard someone picking out scales on a piano next to him, as he was counting out change at the check out. The cashier asked how long 'she' had been in lessons. Thinking the cashier was talking to the customer next to him, he turned to see who was at the piano. He was stunned when he saw Marnee at the piano picking out scales. He looked at the cashier and could only reply 'That is the first time she has ever touched a piano.'" Soon after, she began asking for a guitar, which she received – in the form of a $10 model from eBay. From there Marnee began playing guitar and even writing her own songs, which proved enough motivation for the family to reward her with a more impressive model guitar for her eighth birthday, a 3/4 size Washburn. Now better armed for musical performance, Marnee began performing and competing in her elementary school's talent show. Since that early taste of performing, she has since won first place in a Talent Rock competition in Orlando, Florida in December and, closer to home, snagged first place performing in the Rising Stars competition this March. Her appearances haven't stopped there. Performing one of her own compositions, "Time Is Running Out," and supplementing it with material written by her father, Tom Shaffer, and several eclectic cover songs, Marnee became a fixture at open mic nights around town. While her covers range from Kansas ("Dust in the Wind") to Sixpence None the Richer ("Kiss Me"), it's no doubt her astonishingly mature originals that are winning her so much attention. "She's always writing new songs," says her proud father. "They're very profound, very deep. They're definitely something that you'd think a 10-year-old wouldn't be capable of writing about. People who hear her usually say that it sounds like she's lived three or four lives already." Aside from her singing and composing abilities, her early experience at the piano was a pretty good indicator of her natural talent as a player. Her family reports on her My Space page that even they didn't fully appreciate the level of her talent until a recent challenge was issued, something offered to keep her busy for awhile, but one that proved amazingly simple for the youngster. "Marnee becomes bored very easily and is always asking for a new challenge," her Internet bio continues. "After the Rising Stars competition Marnee asked her dad for a challenging song. He gives her 'Blackbird' by The Beatles. He tells her this song will be a good challenge and take her awhile to learn. She says she'll have it down in one day! He tells her he will give her $50 if she can . Though Marnee never ceases to amaze us, we were stunned when Marnee had the song down in six hours. Within two weeks, Marnee is playing 'Blackbird' in the dark." It's no wonder, with this level of accomplishment, that folks outside of Indiana are starting to take notice. In the meantime, Marnee continues to be a fairly normal schoolgirl, with a few major exceptions. One wonders how someone, at the age of 10, can handle all of this excitement. "She handles it by saying 'Umm, can I go play tonight,'" reports her father. Except when Marnee wants to play, it's a little different than when the average 10-year-old plays. Marnee's playing for an audience. 2007
Marnée by Trinity Lost/DAMN GOOD TUNES
Feburary 2010 __________________________________________________ What I remember most as a child, was the endless acoustic waves echoing throughout the walls of our home. Every door was undoubtedly a portal to a different era than the next. My father, who was scarcely seen without his 1972 Martin guitar, unceasingly strummed out either original works, or one of John Lennon's masterpieces. My eldest brother introduced me to Steve Miller Band, Nirvana, Stone Temple Pilots, and many others that I took with me into adulthood. From my sisters' rooms, was usually the sound of some "hardcore love anthem" sung by big-haired men in tight leather. My other brother had his country music, and my mother brought Michael Jackson, Chicago, Air Supply and Huey Lewis to the table. All of this variety that my little ears took in made me feel in my heart that music was going to be my life. Back then, I thought I wanted to be a star. I practiced in my room for years with combs and soda bottles for microphones. I studied the lyrics from my parents' records, choreographed dances to Cyndi Lauper tracks. I performed at every talent show from first grade, to sixth. I thought that I truely had "what it takes". Then...came... Middle School. I don't know what happened exactly, but I started to become aware of fear. I began noticing that there were a LOT of eyes out there. I started singing in a softer voice, afraid that someone might hear me mess up. My body's temperature would rise, my cheeks would start rushing with saliva. I became a coward just brooding over the idea of performing. I still do to this day. Luckily for me, I found that I became rather passionate about writing. Now that I have the opportunity to write about music, I feel like I am right where I am meant to be. Now, I have the opportunity to bring to you the talents of all these artists who have conquered the fears that hold myself back, and it brings me great satisfaction to do so. This next artist undoubtedly belongs on center stage. At just thirteen years old, she has more vocal stamina than many of the musicians she admires. She has not just her own style, but an entirely unique perspective on how an acoustic guitar can be played. Her abilities are limitless. It is as if she has made some sort of pact with a magical source to play the way she does. Of course, I know better than to conjure up strange theories to explain such abilities. After all, this isn't 1692. Instead, I put all my faith into the fact that this young lady was just blessed with pure, natural, and undeniable artistic talent. I am honored to introduce you to Marnee. Marnee,(pronounced Mar-nay), is not held back by petty fears, which was one of the characteristics that first caught my attention. Her free spirit allows her to perform exactly as it comes through to her. She may look as if she exits this dimension in the middle of her set, but the reality is, she is probably more grounded than anyone that you or I have ever known. Marnee is simply a truely remarkable human being. Marnee was turning heads at just ten years old, by winning "Top Vocalist" in her category at the 2006 Talent Rock in Orlando, FLorida. The young artist blew the audience away with her rendition of Sixpence None the Richer's " Kiss Me". She has since had the opportunity to play and perform for hundreds of thousands of ears through radio station waves, youtube, myspace, and places such as the annual Music Strategies Conference, for Tim Sweeny [Tim Sweeny's Guide to Releasing Independent Records], and literally at the Grand Opening of the Lucas Oil Stadium, new home to the Indianapolis Colts, sharing stage lights with legendary artists Stephen Stills and John Mellencamp. Marnee has recently released her debut album, When There's Gravity, in which she solitarily wrote six of the eight songs. She is joined by instrumentalists Lance Hoeppner (Piano), Felix Moxter (Viola), Jake Vachon (Bass), and Rick Kinney (Drums), to form The Marnee Project. Each member of TMP accentuates Marnee's talents with superb acoustical harmony and precise rhythms. I can not possibly tell you which song is a key one, because to me, they all are. The album is like that of Tori Amos, or Jewel, where every track is vital to the understanding of this young woman's inner workings. These songs are keys to her soul, which she is offering a peek into. The title track is definitely an example of how grown up she really is. Her lyrics are not typical for someone her age, but it is extremely refreshing to see that there is someone out there who is genuine. A lot of young girls start out by writing songs about Love, in relationships, and it doesn't seem right. Marnee speaks of Love, as well as the lack of it, that exists in our world today. I think that she is able to look past the things that do not matter, and each song proves that she has it in her to become exactly who she aspires to be. The best part of it all, is that she is doing it for the love of the music, not for the fame. Because of that, she will go far. Please help support Marnee by purchasing When There's Gravity, and join the thousands who are watching her career bloom around her at an incredible speed. -Marnee, you are an inspiration to us all- Trinity Lost (Scroll down for interview) Trinity: Marnee, you played at the Grand Opening of Lucas Oil Stadium on August 14th, 2008. This was a pricey event, at $250 per ticket, and the show featured Stephen Stills, and a surprise guest appearance by John Cougar Mellencamp. How did you land a spot on stage for this special gathering, and did you get a chance to meet them? Marnee: The Event Company, BMG, that produced the event, saw me online and called a local radio station to see if they knew how to get a hold of me. They called my Dad, came to see one of my shows and hired me. It was an awesome awesome experience! I didn't get to meet John Mellencamp, but I did get to meet Stephen Stills and he even took a moment to give me some advise as he was leaving the stage (& I was going on to the stage.) He said it sounded like there were four of you when you are on stage singing and to just listen to the voice inside ( This was due to the acoustics in the Huuuge Stadium!) Trinity: Now, you play several guitars, including one very beautifully painted acoustic with your name across the frets. Who customized it for you? Marnee: The customized guitar was made by CASE GUITARS but the beautiful artwork was done by my sister Hannah. Trinity: Is there a particular guitar that you feel especially connected to? Marnee: I feel very connected to all of my guitars but the one I am mostly connected to is my Taylor. It is a gift from a friend. It is my best guitar. It is a great guitar to have. I have even named it & written a song about it. Trinity: Some people like to say that you are the reincarnate of a number of different artists; comparing you to Janis Joplin and those alike that we have lost in the past. How do you react to these statements? Marnee: I think to myself, " You know it could be possible". Trinity: Where do YOU feel your talent comes from? Marnee: From my Soul. Trinity: In all of your performances, you look as if you are completely entranced the moment you touch the first string. Where do you go in your mind while performing? Marnee: I call it Drifting .....or my music coma...it's my happy place. Trinity: How do you prepare yourself before stepping onto the stage? Marnee: I focus on the present moment. I breathe it in and I breathe it out. Trinity: Do you ever get nervous? Marnee: I don't get nervous but I get really excited..like "OH WOW, I am here & I get to do this!" Trinity: Do you want to continue with music throughout your life, or do you have any thoughts of what you want to do when you finish school? Marnee: I want to be a professional musician & get to write music and perform! Trinity: If you went on the road, what would your plan be for education? Marnee: I would home school & maybe have a tutor also. Trinity: You are an amazing songwriter, and not just for your age (which IS impressive of course), but as a true artist. What does it take for you to come up with the ideas for these songs? Marnee: Everyday life & experiences.When all the emotions and thoughts gather you have to just write {them}. I started writing WHEN THERE'S GRAVITY after waking up from flying dreams. It made me think of being trapped by gravity and things we deal with. Trinity: It's been said that your family may move to Nashville to help further your career. Is this still part of your goal? Marnee: The move was put off due to the economy...we will move if circumstances change. Trinity: If you could live anywhere in the world, where would you go? Marnee: I would live on an island of the shores of Belize. Trinity: You performed for Tim Sweeney at the annual Music Strategies Conference in L.A. What was your favorite part of the trip? Marnee: My favorite part of the trip to California was flying for the first time. It was neat being in a different state and getting to explore a new state too. California is beautiful.I love the palm trees. I got to see my favorite car made into a limo...a Corvette limo! I cried when we were on the airplane going back home. I wanted to stay and have my family to just move there so we could live there. Tim Sweeney is a great guy. He gives a lot of one-on-one attention. He is a GREAT artist advocate and will do what he can to help you succeed in your music. We are planning to see Tim again in June at Music Strategies 2010 ~ Las Vegas. Trinity: How do you spend your time when you're not singing? Marnee: I love to be outside- swing and walk, I listen to Led Zeppelin & Joni Mitchell alot. I watch Sponge Bob! Trinity: Do you have any other hobbies that you enjoy? Marnee: I make claymation and toymation movies. Trinity: You are known all over the world and have thousands of fans. Do you feel that you are still living a pretty normal life based on your new-found fame across the globe? Marnee: What is a NORMAL Life? :) Anyway, absolutely. I am living the same life I did before becoming known. Trinity: How do you think you would handle it if suddenly you started having the paparazzi around every corner? Would it bother you, or have you prepared yourself for that level of fame? Marnee: I don't think anyone can truly be prepared for paparazzi. I pretty much live in the moment and as different things come up, I deal with them then. Trinity: How did you all come together to create the Marnee Project? Marnee: The guys that laid down drum, keys and bass for the CD are all friends and we thought it would be fun to get together sometime and jam. We had never played together before- actually none of them had seen me play before- they had never heard me play live...they just knew my music from listening to the tracks laid down for the CD. A local venue heard we were gong to get together and play and booked us for a show. The band and I played together twice and voila.....The Marnee Project :) Trinity: Do you feel more comfortable now that you have an awesome live band to join you on stage? Marnee: NO...I am comfortable solo or w/ the band. It is really cool to play with the band. I couldn't say I like playing solo or with the band over the other...I just LOVE playing. Trinity: Where would you like to see yourself, say 5 years from now? Marnee: I would love to see myself playing on stage w/ Jimmy Page with a sold out show of 50,000 or so people. *You know, I wouldn't be surprised if that goal came through...*
Feburary 2010 __________________________________________________ What I remember most as a child, was the endless acoustic waves echoing throughout the walls of our home. Every door was undoubtedly a portal to a different era than the next. My father, who was scarcely seen without his 1972 Martin guitar, unceasingly strummed out either original works, or one of John Lennon's masterpieces. My eldest brother introduced me to Steve Miller Band, Nirvana, Stone Temple Pilots, and many others that I took with me into adulthood. From my sisters' rooms, was usually the sound of some "hardcore love anthem" sung by big-haired men in tight leather. My other brother had his country music, and my mother brought Michael Jackson, Chicago, Air Supply and Huey Lewis to the table. All of this variety that my little ears took in made me feel in my heart that music was going to be my life. Back then, I thought I wanted to be a star. I practiced in my room for years with combs and soda bottles for microphones. I studied the lyrics from my parents' records, choreographed dances to Cyndi Lauper tracks. I performed at every talent show from first grade, to sixth. I thought that I truely had "what it takes". Then...came... Middle School. I don't know what happened exactly, but I started to become aware of fear. I began noticing that there were a LOT of eyes out there. I started singing in a softer voice, afraid that someone might hear me mess up. My body's temperature would rise, my cheeks would start rushing with saliva. I became a coward just brooding over the idea of performing. I still do to this day. Luckily for me, I found that I became rather passionate about writing. Now that I have the opportunity to write about music, I feel like I am right where I am meant to be. Now, I have the opportunity to bring to you the talents of all these artists who have conquered the fears that hold myself back, and it brings me great satisfaction to do so. This next artist undoubtedly belongs on center stage. At just thirteen years old, she has more vocal stamina than many of the musicians she admires. She has not just her own style, but an entirely unique perspective on how an acoustic guitar can be played. Her abilities are limitless. It is as if she has made some sort of pact with a magical source to play the way she does. Of course, I know better than to conjure up strange theories to explain such abilities. After all, this isn't 1692. Instead, I put all my faith into the fact that this young lady was just blessed with pure, natural, and undeniable artistic talent. I am honored to introduce you to Marnee. Marnee,(pronounced Mar-nay), is not held back by petty fears, which was one of the characteristics that first caught my attention. Her free spirit allows her to perform exactly as it comes through to her. She may look as if she exits this dimension in the middle of her set, but the reality is, she is probably more grounded than anyone that you or I have ever known. Marnee is simply a truely remarkable human being. Marnee was turning heads at just ten years old, by winning "Top Vocalist" in her category at the 2006 Talent Rock in Orlando, FLorida. The young artist blew the audience away with her rendition of Sixpence None the Richer's " Kiss Me". She has since had the opportunity to play and perform for hundreds of thousands of ears through radio station waves, youtube, myspace, and places such as the annual Music Strategies Conference, for Tim Sweeny [Tim Sweeny's Guide to Releasing Independent Records], and literally at the Grand Opening of the Lucas Oil Stadium, new home to the Indianapolis Colts, sharing stage lights with legendary artists Stephen Stills and John Mellencamp. Marnee has recently released her debut album, When There's Gravity, in which she solitarily wrote six of the eight songs. She is joined by instrumentalists Lance Hoeppner (Piano), Felix Moxter (Viola), Jake Vachon (Bass), and Rick Kinney (Drums), to form The Marnee Project. Each member of TMP accentuates Marnee's talents with superb acoustical harmony and precise rhythms. I can not possibly tell you which song is a key one, because to me, they all are. The album is like that of Tori Amos, or Jewel, where every track is vital to the understanding of this young woman's inner workings. These songs are keys to her soul, which she is offering a peek into. The title track is definitely an example of how grown up she really is. Her lyrics are not typical for someone her age, but it is extremely refreshing to see that there is someone out there who is genuine. A lot of young girls start out by writing songs about Love, in relationships, and it doesn't seem right. Marnee speaks of Love, as well as the lack of it, that exists in our world today. I think that she is able to look past the things that do not matter, and each song proves that she has it in her to become exactly who she aspires to be. The best part of it all, is that she is doing it for the love of the music, not for the fame. Because of that, she will go far. Please help support Marnee by purchasing When There's Gravity, and join the thousands who are watching her career bloom around her at an incredible speed. -Marnee, you are an inspiration to us all- Trinity Lost (Scroll down for interview) Trinity: Marnee, you played at the Grand Opening of Lucas Oil Stadium on August 14th, 2008. This was a pricey event, at $250 per ticket, and the show featured Stephen Stills, and a surprise guest appearance by John Cougar Mellencamp. How did you land a spot on stage for this special gathering, and did you get a chance to meet them? Marnee: The Event Company, BMG, that produced the event, saw me online and called a local radio station to see if they knew how to get a hold of me. They called my Dad, came to see one of my shows and hired me. It was an awesome awesome experience! I didn't get to meet John Mellencamp, but I did get to meet Stephen Stills and he even took a moment to give me some advise as he was leaving the stage (& I was going on to the stage.) He said it sounded like there were four of you when you are on stage singing and to just listen to the voice inside ( This was due to the acoustics in the Huuuge Stadium!) Trinity: Now, you play several guitars, including one very beautifully painted acoustic with your name across the frets. Who customized it for you? Marnee: The customized guitar was made by CASE GUITARS but the beautiful artwork was done by my sister Hannah. Trinity: Is there a particular guitar that you feel especially connected to? Marnee: I feel very connected to all of my guitars but the one I am mostly connected to is my Taylor. It is a gift from a friend. It is my best guitar. It is a great guitar to have. I have even named it & written a song about it. Trinity: Some people like to say that you are the reincarnate of a number of different artists; comparing you to Janis Joplin and those alike that we have lost in the past. How do you react to these statements? Marnee: I think to myself, " You know it could be possible". Trinity: Where do YOU feel your talent comes from? Marnee: From my Soul. Trinity: In all of your performances, you look as if you are completely entranced the moment you touch the first string. Where do you go in your mind while performing? Marnee: I call it Drifting .....or my music coma...it's my happy place. Trinity: How do you prepare yourself before stepping onto the stage? Marnee: I focus on the present moment. I breathe it in and I breathe it out. Trinity: Do you ever get nervous? Marnee: I don't get nervous but I get really excited..like "OH WOW, I am here & I get to do this!" Trinity: Do you want to continue with music throughout your life, or do you have any thoughts of what you want to do when you finish school? Marnee: I want to be a professional musician & get to write music and perform! Trinity: If you went on the road, what would your plan be for education? Marnee: I would home school & maybe have a tutor also. Trinity: You are an amazing songwriter, and not just for your age (which IS impressive of course), but as a true artist. What does it take for you to come up with the ideas for these songs? Marnee: Everyday life & experiences.When all the emotions and thoughts gather you have to just write {them}. I started writing WHEN THERE'S GRAVITY after waking up from flying dreams. It made me think of being trapped by gravity and things we deal with. Trinity: It's been said that your family may move to Nashville to help further your career. Is this still part of your goal? Marnee: The move was put off due to the economy...we will move if circumstances change. Trinity: If you could live anywhere in the world, where would you go? Marnee: I would live on an island of the shores of Belize. Trinity: You performed for Tim Sweeney at the annual Music Strategies Conference in L.A. What was your favorite part of the trip? Marnee: My favorite part of the trip to California was flying for the first time. It was neat being in a different state and getting to explore a new state too. California is beautiful.I love the palm trees. I got to see my favorite car made into a limo...a Corvette limo! I cried when we were on the airplane going back home. I wanted to stay and have my family to just move there so we could live there. Tim Sweeney is a great guy. He gives a lot of one-on-one attention. He is a GREAT artist advocate and will do what he can to help you succeed in your music. We are planning to see Tim again in June at Music Strategies 2010 ~ Las Vegas. Trinity: How do you spend your time when you're not singing? Marnee: I love to be outside- swing and walk, I listen to Led Zeppelin & Joni Mitchell alot. I watch Sponge Bob! Trinity: Do you have any other hobbies that you enjoy? Marnee: I make claymation and toymation movies. Trinity: You are known all over the world and have thousands of fans. Do you feel that you are still living a pretty normal life based on your new-found fame across the globe? Marnee: What is a NORMAL Life? :) Anyway, absolutely. I am living the same life I did before becoming known. Trinity: How do you think you would handle it if suddenly you started having the paparazzi around every corner? Would it bother you, or have you prepared yourself for that level of fame? Marnee: I don't think anyone can truly be prepared for paparazzi. I pretty much live in the moment and as different things come up, I deal with them then. Trinity: How did you all come together to create the Marnee Project? Marnee: The guys that laid down drum, keys and bass for the CD are all friends and we thought it would be fun to get together sometime and jam. We had never played together before- actually none of them had seen me play before- they had never heard me play live...they just knew my music from listening to the tracks laid down for the CD. A local venue heard we were gong to get together and play and booked us for a show. The band and I played together twice and voila.....The Marnee Project :) Trinity: Do you feel more comfortable now that you have an awesome live band to join you on stage? Marnee: NO...I am comfortable solo or w/ the band. It is really cool to play with the band. I couldn't say I like playing solo or with the band over the other...I just LOVE playing. Trinity: Where would you like to see yourself, say 5 years from now? Marnee: I would love to see myself playing on stage w/ Jimmy Page with a sold out show of 50,000 or so people. *You know, I wouldn't be surprised if that goal came through...*
CD RELEASE by Chris Hupe/WHATZUP
When There’s Gravity-Marnée ~ May 21, 2009 ____________________________________________________ Marnée is 12 years old. Okay, that’s not completely relevant. A lot of fuss has been made over her age, but I’m mentioning her youth simply as a point of fact, not because you should listen to her debut album with the thought, “Well, this is pretty good for a 12-year-old. She’ll get better.” She will get better, but, as anyone who has seen this singer-songwriter perform over the last few years can attest, even at 12 Marnée is already head and shoulders above many older, well established musicians in terms of skill and songwriting ability. With the release of When There’s Gravity everyone will be able hear for themselves. Recorded at Tempel Studios, When There’s Gravity showcases the many different styles that have influenced Marnée so far. It opens nicely with “Laugh and Play,” featuring Lance Hoeppner and Rick Kinney from Moser Woods on keyboards and drums, respectively, and the incomparable Felix Moxter on viola. A lyrically insightful song about friendship and life in general, “Laugh and Play” is one of those tunes that will hang around in your head for days. After a brief interlude by Hoeppner, Marnée shows off her singing talents in “While My Tears Turn To Ice,” “Summer Dress” and “Down in the Valley.” In the latter song, the first she ever wrote, Marnée delicately paints a clear picture of her past while simultaneously musing about the present and looking forward to the future – subjects to which just about anyone can relate. The title track, “Solstice of the Sun” and “Gethsemane (Part I)” stand out as the album’s catchiest songs upon first listen and likely have the best chance of getting her further notice outside the Fort. These songs show Marnée’s uncanny ability to write a great hook and effortlessly blend that hook with profound lyrics. But wait – just when you think you’re getting a handle on the style of this album, the five-minute instrumental “Pixie Dusk in the Beehive” blows away any effort to pigeonhole this artist into one category. With When There’s Gravity Marnée brings to mind a younger Jewel or Brandi Carlile as she crafts 10 distinctly different songs into an album of pure listening pleasure. This album leaves little doubt that Marnée is talented beyond her years. From the haunting melody of “Solstice of the Sun” to the intensity of “Pixie Dust” and the innocence of “Down in the Valley,” Marnée demonstrates that there are no limits to her imagination or her talent. Be sure to pick up a copy of this CD soon. It’s likely to become a collector’s item one day. web link: www.whatzup.com/Music/cd052109b.html
When There’s Gravity-Marnée ~ May 21, 2009 ____________________________________________________ Marnée is 12 years old. Okay, that’s not completely relevant. A lot of fuss has been made over her age, but I’m mentioning her youth simply as a point of fact, not because you should listen to her debut album with the thought, “Well, this is pretty good for a 12-year-old. She’ll get better.” She will get better, but, as anyone who has seen this singer-songwriter perform over the last few years can attest, even at 12 Marnée is already head and shoulders above many older, well established musicians in terms of skill and songwriting ability. With the release of When There’s Gravity everyone will be able hear for themselves. Recorded at Tempel Studios, When There’s Gravity showcases the many different styles that have influenced Marnée so far. It opens nicely with “Laugh and Play,” featuring Lance Hoeppner and Rick Kinney from Moser Woods on keyboards and drums, respectively, and the incomparable Felix Moxter on viola. A lyrically insightful song about friendship and life in general, “Laugh and Play” is one of those tunes that will hang around in your head for days. After a brief interlude by Hoeppner, Marnée shows off her singing talents in “While My Tears Turn To Ice,” “Summer Dress” and “Down in the Valley.” In the latter song, the first she ever wrote, Marnée delicately paints a clear picture of her past while simultaneously musing about the present and looking forward to the future – subjects to which just about anyone can relate. The title track, “Solstice of the Sun” and “Gethsemane (Part I)” stand out as the album’s catchiest songs upon first listen and likely have the best chance of getting her further notice outside the Fort. These songs show Marnée’s uncanny ability to write a great hook and effortlessly blend that hook with profound lyrics. But wait – just when you think you’re getting a handle on the style of this album, the five-minute instrumental “Pixie Dusk in the Beehive” blows away any effort to pigeonhole this artist into one category. With When There’s Gravity Marnée brings to mind a younger Jewel or Brandi Carlile as she crafts 10 distinctly different songs into an album of pure listening pleasure. This album leaves little doubt that Marnée is talented beyond her years. From the haunting melody of “Solstice of the Sun” to the intensity of “Pixie Dust” and the innocence of “Down in the Valley,” Marnée demonstrates that there are no limits to her imagination or her talent. Be sure to pick up a copy of this CD soon. It’s likely to become a collector’s item one day. web link: www.whatzup.com/Music/cd052109b.html
CMJ by CMJ
OurStage Pick: Marnee ~ 2008 “Down In The Valley” Solo Performance Channel Singer/songwriter Marnee sings very mature lyrics belying her 11 years of age with sweet whispering, yet full and rich vocals. Blending minimalist guitar and a spine tingling voice, “Down In The Valley” is entrancing and unique. RIYL: Jewel, Sarah McLachlan, Joan Baez
OurStage Pick: Marnee ~ 2008 “Down In The Valley” Solo Performance Channel Singer/songwriter Marnee sings very mature lyrics belying her 11 years of age with sweet whispering, yet full and rich vocals. Blending minimalist guitar and a spine tingling voice, “Down In The Valley” is entrancing and unique. RIYL: Jewel, Sarah McLachlan, Joan Baez
An Ear For Sound & Singing & The Talent To Become Marnée by Fort Wayne Magazine~Michelle DeVinney 2009
Turning 13 can be difficult for many. But for singer/songwriter Marnée, who already has her career established and is looking ahead to making her name known beyond her native Fort Wayne, becoming a teenager just puts her that much closer to her goals. Marnée’s interest in music began very early, when she sang before she even spoke her fi rst word. Putting melody to the simple syllabic language of an infant, the little girl was intuitively drawn to song, and when she grew older and saw members of her family playing musical instruments, her fascination only grew. “My dad played guitar all the time around the house, and it caught my interest,” she said. “I asked him to teach me a couple of chords, and that’s what really got me interested in playing.” Her parents were anxious to nurture that growing interest and purchased a small, inexpensive child’s guitar, waiting to see how serious Marnée’s interest was. She quickly demonstrated her devotion by carrying the guitar with her wherever she went, even when heading outside to play with friends. She also showed a remarkable proclivity for some of the more sophisticated aspects of playing. “Of course with a cheaper guitar like that it was always getting out of tune,” her father Tom said. “And she always knew when it wasn’t in tune. She had an ear for sound and singing and could identify when the pitch wasn’t right.” Although Marnée’s three siblings each have their own musical and artistic pursuits, which she will happily discuss with great pride, Marnée’s own efforts have become fairly well-known throughout Fort Wayne and Indiana over the years, with Marnée beginning to write songs at the age of eight, performing at open mic events at 10, and releasing her fi rst CD, When There’s Gravity, earlier this year. Her remarkable gifts are that much more evident with the realization that two of the fi rst songs she wrote almost fi ve years ago, “Laugh and Play” and “Down in the Valley,” both appear on her fi rst CD. It isn’t only Fort Wayne audiences that have experienced her talent and poise. Last summer when Indianapolis’s new Lucas Oil Stadium was offi cially opened, it was Marnée who fi nished the show. Playing before, and ostensibly serving as her opening acts, were music legends and Rock ‘n Roll Hall of Fame inductees Stephen Stills and John Mellencamp. With a theme of passing the torch from one generation to another, the seasoned pros introduced the young upand- comer as the roof opened to the Colts’ new home. “Seeing her talking to Stephen Stills was incredible to me,” her father said. “I grew up listening to his music.” Already used to crowds of many sizes, she is comfortable in her skin when she stands before her audience. “I get butterfl ies, but I never get nervous,” she said. “It’s really more excitement and wanting to do a good job. Sometimes when you play in front of a small crowd there isn’t as much energy, so I like to play in front of a lot of people. When there are more people, I know they want a good show, and I can put all of my energy out there for them.” Courtesy of-Fort Wayne Monthly Magazine
Turning 13 can be difficult for many. But for singer/songwriter Marnée, who already has her career established and is looking ahead to making her name known beyond her native Fort Wayne, becoming a teenager just puts her that much closer to her goals. Marnée’s interest in music began very early, when she sang before she even spoke her fi rst word. Putting melody to the simple syllabic language of an infant, the little girl was intuitively drawn to song, and when she grew older and saw members of her family playing musical instruments, her fascination only grew. “My dad played guitar all the time around the house, and it caught my interest,” she said. “I asked him to teach me a couple of chords, and that’s what really got me interested in playing.” Her parents were anxious to nurture that growing interest and purchased a small, inexpensive child’s guitar, waiting to see how serious Marnée’s interest was. She quickly demonstrated her devotion by carrying the guitar with her wherever she went, even when heading outside to play with friends. She also showed a remarkable proclivity for some of the more sophisticated aspects of playing. “Of course with a cheaper guitar like that it was always getting out of tune,” her father Tom said. “And she always knew when it wasn’t in tune. She had an ear for sound and singing and could identify when the pitch wasn’t right.” Although Marnée’s three siblings each have their own musical and artistic pursuits, which she will happily discuss with great pride, Marnée’s own efforts have become fairly well-known throughout Fort Wayne and Indiana over the years, with Marnée beginning to write songs at the age of eight, performing at open mic events at 10, and releasing her fi rst CD, When There’s Gravity, earlier this year. Her remarkable gifts are that much more evident with the realization that two of the fi rst songs she wrote almost fi ve years ago, “Laugh and Play” and “Down in the Valley,” both appear on her fi rst CD. It isn’t only Fort Wayne audiences that have experienced her talent and poise. Last summer when Indianapolis’s new Lucas Oil Stadium was offi cially opened, it was Marnée who fi nished the show. Playing before, and ostensibly serving as her opening acts, were music legends and Rock ‘n Roll Hall of Fame inductees Stephen Stills and John Mellencamp. With a theme of passing the torch from one generation to another, the seasoned pros introduced the young upand- comer as the roof opened to the Colts’ new home. “Seeing her talking to Stephen Stills was incredible to me,” her father said. “I grew up listening to his music.” Already used to crowds of many sizes, she is comfortable in her skin when she stands before her audience. “I get butterfl ies, but I never get nervous,” she said. “It’s really more excitement and wanting to do a good job. Sometimes when you play in front of a small crowd there isn’t as much energy, so I like to play in front of a lot of people. When there are more people, I know they want a good show, and I can put all of my energy out there for them.” Courtesy of-Fort Wayne Monthly Magazine
Out and About Columb by Whatzup Magazine / Nick Braun 2009
This past summer, I missed an opportunity that I could kick myself in the rear over. On my way to an evening Tin Caps game, I strolled through the Rock the Plaza crowd in front of the library as they sat patiently waiting for the bands to begin. As I made my way through, I ran into Rock 104’s Doc West who told me that I must stick around to see an impressive musician that was about to hit the stage. After telling him I had six beer guzzling friend to meet at the game, he gave me a look as if to say it was my loss. The artist he was referring to was the 13 year old singer/songwriter/ guitar wiz Marnee. A couple of innings into the Tin Caps game, I ran into some acquaintances in the beer line and they asked me what the score was. “Hadn’t they been paying attention?” I thought to myself. Then they told me they just heard an awesome performance by a young girl named Marnee and didn’t want to leave until she was done. The truth behind all this hype is this 7th grader is the real deal. Ever since she began strumming the strings at an amazing age of 6 (thanks to some lessons from her dad), she has stayed true to her talent. In 2006, she won top vocalist in her category at the Talent Rock competition in Orlando, Florida. The thing that blows my mind is that she writes her own music both vocally and on the guitar. In 2006, she won top vocalist in her category at the Talent Rock competition in Orlando, Florida. A year later, she took 1st place in her age group at the Fort Wayne Youtheatre Rising Stars talent search. Last April, she released her impressive debut When There’s Gravity which is currently available at Wooden Nickel, on cdbaby, and at her shows. In addition to releasing her first album, Marnée performed for the grand opening of Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis last year. But it doesn’t stop there. This July Atlantic Records paid for her trip to New York so she could showcase her talent for them. How many people do you know get that opportunity? This wasn’t an “American Idol” type of audition where musicians lined the hallways waiting for their chance. It was actually just Marnee and a few A&R guys listening to her perform. She received some great feedback that day but only time will only tell how it will unfold. Marnée is currently writing and hoping to do some sort of summer tour next year, hitting several festivals in the Midwest. Although she has no shows booked at this time, feel free to check out her Lucas Oil Stadium performance on her MySpace page (www.myspace.com/Marneeaugust). One thing’s for sure: whenever she does play next, this time I’ll be there!
This past summer, I missed an opportunity that I could kick myself in the rear over. On my way to an evening Tin Caps game, I strolled through the Rock the Plaza crowd in front of the library as they sat patiently waiting for the bands to begin. As I made my way through, I ran into Rock 104’s Doc West who told me that I must stick around to see an impressive musician that was about to hit the stage. After telling him I had six beer guzzling friend to meet at the game, he gave me a look as if to say it was my loss. The artist he was referring to was the 13 year old singer/songwriter/ guitar wiz Marnee. A couple of innings into the Tin Caps game, I ran into some acquaintances in the beer line and they asked me what the score was. “Hadn’t they been paying attention?” I thought to myself. Then they told me they just heard an awesome performance by a young girl named Marnee and didn’t want to leave until she was done. The truth behind all this hype is this 7th grader is the real deal. Ever since she began strumming the strings at an amazing age of 6 (thanks to some lessons from her dad), she has stayed true to her talent. In 2006, she won top vocalist in her category at the Talent Rock competition in Orlando, Florida. The thing that blows my mind is that she writes her own music both vocally and on the guitar. In 2006, she won top vocalist in her category at the Talent Rock competition in Orlando, Florida. A year later, she took 1st place in her age group at the Fort Wayne Youtheatre Rising Stars talent search. Last April, she released her impressive debut When There’s Gravity which is currently available at Wooden Nickel, on cdbaby, and at her shows. In addition to releasing her first album, Marnée performed for the grand opening of Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis last year. But it doesn’t stop there. This July Atlantic Records paid for her trip to New York so she could showcase her talent for them. How many people do you know get that opportunity? This wasn’t an “American Idol” type of audition where musicians lined the hallways waiting for their chance. It was actually just Marnee and a few A&R guys listening to her perform. She received some great feedback that day but only time will only tell how it will unfold. Marnée is currently writing and hoping to do some sort of summer tour next year, hitting several festivals in the Midwest. Although she has no shows booked at this time, feel free to check out her Lucas Oil Stadium performance on her MySpace page (www.myspace.com/Marneeaugust). One thing’s for sure: whenever she does play next, this time I’ll be there!
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