041: Heart-Centred Music and Song Writing with Mariya Stokes

In this episode of The People Teaching People Podcast, I’m joined by Mariya Stokes, a talented and community-focused country music artist from Stavely, Alberta. Mariya shares her journey from growing up in a musical family to becoming Country Music Alberta’s two-time Horizon Female Artist of the Year. She discusses her songwriting process, the importance of community support, and the mentors who have influenced her career. Mariya also talks about the challenges and joys of being an independent artist, her passion for vintage fashion, and the excitement surrounding the release of her debut full-length album. 

I am above and beyond thrilled to have Mariya Stokes joining me as my guest on my 100th PODCAST EPISODE!

Mariya and I connected at a Mamas for Mamas Calgary event back in September of 2022 where I had the opportunity to see her perform and to sit beside her at dinner and have an amazing conversation. Mariya is not only incredibly talented but also heart-centred in her approach to music and in her connections and interactions with her community. 

If Kacey Musgraves and Lake Street Dive had a country-soul love child, the result would be Mariya Stokes. Known for her distinct retro style and quirky sense of humor, Country Music Alberta’s two-time Horizon Female Artist of the Year is on the cusp of releasing her debut full-length album. Her single, “You Want Me,” dropped in February 2024 and her single “One of Em”, was released in May 2024! Growing up in Stavely, Alberta, Mariya’s music reflects her roots: honest country lyrics seamlessly blended with pop-influenced melodies. Additionally, Mariya was a top-eight semifinalist in SiriusXMs Top of the Country in partnership with the Canadian Country Music Association in 2024. And – she is looking forward to performing on the main stage this summer at Country Thunder Alberta!

 

Listen in as we talk about:

03:00 Mariya’s story

05:16 Family and musical influences

07:03 Mariya’s songwriting process

09:19 The power of collaboration

12:09 Advice for aspiring musicians

14:14 Navigating the business of music

17:12 Mariya’s “pinch me” moments

20:48 Mariya’s upcoming projects and shows

23:07 Giving back to the community

24:54 Songwriting as personal expression

29:26 Mariya’s personal style and vintage fashion

32:33 The role of personal style in branding

37:28 Music and mentorship

42:30 What Mariya is most proud of

43:56 Mariya answers some rapid-fire questions

46:39 Mariya’s final thoughts and words of wisdom

 

Connect with Mariya:

• Website: https://www.mariyastokes.com/
• Instagram: @mariyastokes 
• Facebook: @mariyastokes 
• TikTok: @mariyastokes 

 

Connect with Tiana:

• Website: https://tianafech.com
• LinkedIn: Tiana Fech
• Instagram: @tianafech 
• Facebook: @tianafech