Maria Johnsen's Music

Maria Johnsen’s Music: A Journey of Creativity Across Genres and Cultures

Since childhood, music has been an integral part of my life. Growing up in Norway with a rich cultural heritage from both my Russian mother and Norwegian father, I was exposed to a diverse range of musical styles and traditions. My love for music was evident early on, and I began writing songs as a form of self-expression and storytelling. The melodies and lyrics I created were my way of exploring the world, and music became a comforting companion throughout my journey across various countries and cultures.

Early Beginnings: Poetry to Songwriting

My journey into songwriting began with poetry. I found solace in writing poems that reflected my thoughts, emotions, and the experiences I encountered. These poems were deeply personal, and as I shared them with friends and family, I realized the power they had to connect with others. This realization marked a turning point; I started transforming my poems into songs, giving them a musical voice and a broader emotional canvas.

The first significant moment in my musical career came with the release of my film, “The Ghost on the Bridge,” in 2017. The movie, a haunting tale of love and mystery, featured a song based on one of my early poems.

Incorporating Music into Film: A New Creative Path

Since 2017, I have consistently incorporated my music into my films, using songs as a powerful tool to convey emotions and enhance the storytelling experience. I believe that music can touch the audience in ways that dialogue or visuals alone cannot. It adds a layer of emotional depth and can set the tone of a scene in an instant. By combining my skills in filmmaking and songwriting, I found a unique niche where I could fully express my artistic vision.

As a multilingual artist, my music reflects the diverse linguistic and cultural influences I’ve absorbed throughout my life. Having grown up trilingual in Norwegian, Russian, and English, and later mastering French, Chinese, and several other languages, I often write lyrics in multiple languages. This multilingual approach not only reflects my personal journey but also allows me to connect with a global audience. My songs carry messages of love, hope, resilience, and the beauty of diversity, resonating with listeners from different cultural backgrounds.

Exploring Different Genres: A Versatile Approach

My passion for exploring various genres has been a defining characteristic of my music. I believe that music should not be confined to a single style or category. Instead, it should be a reflection of one’s emotions, experiences, and the story being told. This belief has led me to experiment with a wide range of musical styles, from pop and rock to classical, electronic dance music (EDM), and ballads.

For instance, some of my songs have an upbeat, electronic vibe designed to energize and motivate listeners. These tracks often feature catchy beats and uplifting lyrics, perfect for a workout playlist or a dance floor. On the other hand, I also create soulful ballads that delve into themes of love, loss, and introspection. These songs are more intimate, with stripped-down arrangements that highlight the lyrics and the emotions behind them.

Exploring different genres has been my way of “testing the waters” and understanding what resonates best with my audience. It has also allowed me to express different facets of my personality and experiences. Whether it’s a catchy pop tune or a melancholic ballad, each song I create is a reflection of a moment in time, a story I want to tell, or an emotion I want to share.

The Message Behind the Music: Inspiration and Motivation

One of the core elements of my music is the message it carries. I aim to create songs that not only entertain but also inspire and uplift listeners. My latest song, “Unbreakable Spirit,” is a testament to this mission. It is dedicated to individuals who face challenges in life, whether it’s struggling with job searches, dealing with workplace toxicity, or facing societal rejection for being different. The song is a powerful reminder to embrace one’s uniqueness and rise above adversity, no matter one’s age, gender, or background.

Through my music, I want to reach out to those who feel unheard or unseen, offering them a sense of hope and encouragement. I believe that music has the power to heal, inspire, and bring people together. This belief drives me to continue writing and composing, even when faced with the challenges of the industry.

Looking Ahead: Expanding My Musical Horizons

As I look to the future, I am excited about the possibilities that lie ahead in my musical journey. I plan to continue experimenting with different genres and collaborating with other artists across the globe. My multilingual skills open up opportunities to write and perform in various languages, allowing me to reach a wider audience and connect with listeners from diverse cultural backgrounds.

I also aim to integrate more of my music into my films and possibly release a full album featuring songs from my movies. This project will be a celebration of my journey as an artist, blending the worlds of music and film in a unique and personal way.