We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Julia Marley a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Alright, Julia thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Can you talk to us about a project that’s meant a lot to you?
Every project that I’ve been fortunate enough to be a part of has shaped me as an artist and as a person.
A project that has left a lasting handprint on my heart is my song, “You Can Be”.
I volunteer with Lollipop Theater Network; an incredible non-profit that brings current movies and entertainment to hospitalized kids. “You Can Be” is inspired by the kids I’ve met at Lollipop, and dedicated to the organization, with 50% of the song’s proceeds being donated.
I got to collaborate with two artists whom I deeply admire: Desi Oakley (composer) and Jack Gray (producer). Witnessing the song impact others reminds me the importance of following through with creative impulses. Performing the song and watching kids sing along to lyrics such as “You are the author of your story / Don’t forget you hold the pen” is magical.
I recently released the music video, which can be found on my YouTube channel (Julia Marley). The video is a compilation of friends, family, and supporters rocking out to the song. Orchestrating that project was incredibly gratifying, and I will be forever grateful to everyone that has expressed support.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
Hi! My name is Julia Marley, and I’m a passionate singer/songwriter, actress, dancer, choreographer, interviewer, and special needs advocate. I’ve loved performing for as long as I can remember. My parents got me involved in community theatre when I was young, and the joy hasn’t faded.
I am currently focusing my energy on my music endeavors. I have original music available to stream on all platforms, with more in the works!
I’ve been a mentor and teacher for artists with disabilities for over a decade. I teach a drop-in jazz funk class every Saturday on Groove Interactive; an online dance platform created by renowned choreographer, Guy Groove. My class is inclusive and open to dancers of all ages. You can learn more and sign up for class on guygrooveinteractive.com.
My passion for vulnerable and grounded conversations with creatives led to the creation of my podcast, Behind the Resume, which can be found exclusively on my YouTube channel. These discussions serve as an opportunity for industry veterans to share stories and parts of their journeys that are not typically discussed.
Are there any books, videos or other content that you feel have meaningfully impacted your thinking?
“Big Magic” by Elizabeth Gilbert changed my life. Olivia Rodrigo mentioned how the book greatly impacted her writing process, and as a fan of her’s, I immediately took a trip to the library. Gilbert’s message is that as artists, we are vessels of creativity. If you’re dismissive of an idea, it will find someone else to bring it into existence. This way of thinking, matched with Gilbert’s colorful way of writing, completely shifted my view towards art, and helped ease my judgement of my own ideas and creativity.
What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?
My mission with my art (and life) is to inspire. I want to make art that saves lives. I believe in the power of music and theatre, and their ability to drastically change the emotional state of the viewer. My goal is to remain authentic to my truth while creating and living the life of my dreams.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.juliamarley.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thejuliamarley/?next=%2F
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheJuliaMarley/videos
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@thejuliamarley
Image Credits
Main photo – photographer Grace Wethor