Ocean Style Magazine

Coffee Shop: with marie claire
by Chie Davis

A seamless blend of three seemingly polar opposite genres- hip-hop, opera and reggae, marie-claire’s passion is clearly defined in her debut album the evolution continues. A mix of reggae and funk with operatic influences flavored throughout, it illustrates her growth as an artist and is sure to be a staple in every music lover’s collection.

Recently showcasing her talents at the Jamaica Jazz and Blues Festival in late January, the songstress’ range reaches further than that of a typical ‘new’ artist.

Her melodic voice was honed in Italy, training at the Conservatory of Santa Cecelia in Rome. marie-claire has performed at Carnegie Hall, had her songs featured in films such as Lovin Jezebel and The Roommate, and exposed her comedic side as a cast-member during the second season of the Chapelle Show.

Finding her way back to her home island, Dominica- marie-claire made a mark in local television by co-creating, producing and hosting Video Best, Jazz Live and Belemont Lounge- the first ever music video and live shows broadcast on the island.

Sparking off the new decade performing at the Year of the Child Concert in Dominica, marie-claire won the praise of critics and fans alike, seducing them with her powerfully soothing vocals. She undoubtedly left an indelible mark on concertgoers who eagerly anticipate the release of her first single “care for you,” off of her debut album. The song, simply described as “a timeless lover’s rock with and old soul,” will pull you in and not let go.

Ocean Splash! was excited to find out more about blossoming artist, marie-claire, as she stepped into our Coffee Shop...

Coffee Shop Questions:

What are your top goals for 2010?

Finish the two albums I am working on...the evolution continues is a mix of genres including Reggae, Hip-Hop, R&B and Opera. The second is the dreamland project where I will sing popular reggae songs in Opera.

What's your advice for young women interested in pursuing music?

Follow your dreams, even if no one believes in you. If GOD has given you the passion and desire, work hard --- nothing can stop you!

What's next for you career wise?

I just completed the video for care for you the first single from the evolution continues. It was shot in Antigua. I will be performing with Arturo Tappin and Arturo Sandoval in the second staging in the Year of The Child concert series in Dominica. The first one was headlined by Queen Ifrica and Tony Rebel.

Favorite must have piece from your wardrobe.

My custom made BIGGEY denim skirt, created in Kingston, Jamaica

One thing that gets you through Monday mornings?

Praying

Your favorite fine dining restaurant?

Bar Pitti in New York

If your life had a theme song what would it be?

Don't Rain on my Parade by Barbara Streisand

If you only had 3 hours in your most favorite city in the world what would you do?

I would sing at the Piazza Novena in Rome, Italy

Do you have an alter ego when you experience a "good hair or fashion" day

I don't need an alter ego, being marie-claire is enough.