In a world where everyone is focused on, and worrying about, the future, Maryze (she/they) is bringing nostalgia back to life through a modern lens. Already making it onto Spotify’s Viral 50 Canada chart alongside icons like Ariana Grande and Cardi B, the Montreal-based singer and songwriter blends the best elements of 2000s pop with more forward-thinking attitudes and perspective. Their latest single, “Experiments,” showcases their versatility like none of their past releases have, and we can’t get enough. Inspired by artists like Timabaland and Nelly Furtado, it’s taking us back to the heyday of fluttery vocals and pulsing beats.
“‘Experiments’ is the freedom and permission to explore your deepest desires,” Maryze tells TREMG. “It’s releasing control to be fully in control. I hope this song inspires listeners to fully embody their sensuality, in spite of all the shame and taboo that society often associates with sexual pleasure.”
Since her 2018 debut with “B.O.Y.,” Maryze has blossomed into not only a powerful young artist, but also a queer individual finding their footing in a tumultuous, chaotic time in human history. Such experiences have influenced her upcoming debut album, 8, which sonically draws from everything from folk to hyperpop and emo.
“I think I’ve learned to both be more open about difficult themes in my music, and also know when to keep things close to my chest,” she explains. “I’m no longer scared to share about certain subjects, but I’ve also realized it’s okay to not put it all out there. I decide what I want to share. I’m more unapologetic, but also wiser.”
If “Experiments” is any indication, 8 will show off that wisdom and experience in ways we’ve never seen from Maryze before. We can’t wait to hear what else the project has in store for us! In the meantime, you can connect with Maryze on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Twitter, and their official website, and keep reading for more from our conversation with the rising creative.
Congrats on your new single, “Experiments!” How does it feel to finally let it out into the world?
Thank you so much! I’m insanely excited. It’s been tough to keep the visuals under wraps. The “Experiments” music video is one of the projects I’m the most proud of. Director Ariana Molly was incredibly dedicated to her vision.
What does “Experiments” mean to you?
“Experiments” is the freedom and permission to explore your deepest desires. It’s releasing control to be fully in control. I hope this song inspires listeners to fully embody their sensuality, in spite of all the shame and taboo that society often associates with sexual pleasure.
Is there a certain lyric on “Experiments” that you’re particularly proud of?
Well, there’s definitely a lyric that scandalized me: “You like the way I put it down, with your fingers in my mouth.” I literally gasped while writing that. I tweeted something like “I think I just wrote my dirtiest song yet, should I release it?” Everyone said yes and here we are!
That kind of summarizes the song’s theme – not censoring or shrinking yourself to make others comfortable. Expressing that naughtier side.
You’ll be releasing your debut album, 8, in May. Which song on the album are you most excited for fans to hear?
I love them all in different ways. But I’m probably most excited about people hearing the stripped-down songs where it’s just me on piano or layering acapella vocals. I’ve never really released music like that, it will be like giving listeners a closer look at my writing process. So I’m interested in seeing the reception for the first and last track of the album.
Earlier this year, you made a TikTok with the funny playlist titles fans have added your songs to on Spotify. If 8 was a playlist, what kind of title would you give it?
Songs for My Inner Teen.
Your music is a fun fusion of 2000s club vibes and modern attitudes. Who are some artists who influence your sound?
I’ve always been super inspired by modern pop artists. I love and respect the classic greats, but my biggest influences have been Lady Gaga, Destiny’s Child, Charli XCX, and Fall Out Boy. Edith Piaf is my queen though.
As an artist from Montreal, you make songs in both English and French. Do you approach your English songs differently than your French songs? How do you decide which language to write a song in?
The songs kind of decide for themselves what language they want to appear in. I don’t have much say! Growing up in Vancouver, I used to write songs in French when they were too personal and I didn’t want people to understand the lyrics, but now that I’m in Montreal that doesn’t work as well.
Your debut single, “B.O.Y.” landed on Spotify’s Viral 50 Canada chart shortly after it came out. What was it like to get such a reaction with your first release?
It was really validating. I played in bands for six years before that and doubted I could strike out on my own. The reception for “B.O.Y.” was the best affirmation I could have asked for. I’m really grateful to everyone who supported that first release and to its producer Jeshway (FKA BrotherNature). We collaborated again on “Experiments” so it’s a nice full-circle moment! He sings on it a bit too and has the most beautiful voice.
How do you feel you’ve grown as an artist since releasing “B.O.Y.” in 2018?
I think I’ve learned to both be more open about difficult themes in my music, and also know when to keep things close to my chest. I’m no longer scared to share about certain subjects, but I’ve also realized it’s okay to not put it all out there. I decide what I want to share. I’m more unapologetic but also wiser, if that makes sense.
We at TREMG love getting to know new artists who haven’t gotten the success or attention they deserve. Who are some of your favorite underrated artists at the moment?
Margo, Solomon K-I, Doohickey Cubicle, La Fièvre, Sympa César.
Is there anything else you’d like to mention that the questions didn’t touch on?
I just can’t wait to release my first album. It’s been a long time coming – some of these songs have grown with me since I was a teen, and others were written a few months ago. I think listeners are going to be pleasantly surprised by how it all sounds.
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