New York City based singer/songwriter, Marlene Mendoza, has taken the path as a solo artist after graduating with her Bachelors Degree in Music and touring with several bands as a guitarist.

Please list your name.

Marlene Mendoza

For starters, what bands were you a part of prior to your solo project, Marlene Mendoza?

I was in a post-hardcore band named Varsity as a guitarist as well as other local NYC bands.

What’s the origin of that name?

My name is my actual given name from birth!

What are the main themes or topics for most of your songs and do you think these topics will change over time?

So far, the main topics have been statements of discontent. I think these topics are always going to be relatedable to anybody no matter what stage you are in life.

What artists are currently inspiring the music that you’re making?

It depends on alot of factors but so far The Neighbourhood, Evanescence, Emmure, and New Years Day.

Was there a particular band/artist or concert that inspired you to get into music?

A particular concert that inspired me to get into music was a Panic! At the Disco concert when they first released the “A Fever You Can’t Sweat Out”. The excitement I felt during the concert is a feeling I would never forget. It was my first big concert attendence and it definitely inspired me to pick up an instrument and play my heart out.

What do you do to prepare for a show? Any flexing, exercises, etc …

Before the show, making sure I have all my gear ready to go! Double check if I am not missing anything important like cables for an example. Before I hit the stage, breathing exercises mostly to calm any nerves and some flexing to warm up the body.

What has been the biggest highlight of your career so far?

My biggest highlight of my career so far is being a sponsored artist of Blackcraft cult clothing company. I love the brand and never thought it was a possibility until it happened!

If you could tour with any musical act, past or present, who would they be and why?

Present, I would love to tour with Conquer Divide, Spiritbox, In this Moment, and Jinjer. They are all fierce women rocking and killing it and I would love to be a part of that energy! But to be honest, I would love to tour with any musical act at this point since touring has been paused for a bit due to covid!

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Check out my music on Spotify and YouTube! Always looking forward to meeting new people so don’t be afraid to strike up a conversation with me on my Instagram: @marlenemendozaofficial or any other of my socials!

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