Divine Magazine is pleased to bring you an interview with Marie Claire. Marie is a soprano, a jazz singer, musical theater singer, songwriter & actor.
Is there anyone special who’s inspired you to forge ahead with your business?
Ella Fitzgerald inspired me to sing because she came up at a time when it was not (putting lightly) easy to be a black woman, let a black woman in the entertainment industry with Jim Crow Laws in place. However, you never heard the desperation, or bleak and overwhelming obstacles when she sang. Ella sang with effervescent and a joy that belied the times she was living in.
As a public figure, how do you think being hailed as a role model impacts on others and what pressure does it put on you?
I believe being an Afro Caribbean woman pursuing a singing (operatic) career with integrity is a powerful role model for peoples of all walks of life because all that glitters is not gold so hold out for the gold despite how many shiny baubles the industry dangles in front of you.
If you could be remembered for one thing, what would it be?
For inspiring people of all walks of life to never give up on their dreams and to walk this life with integrity.
Do you have a motto or a mantra you apply to either work, life, or both?
“Life’s a banquet and most poor suckers are starving to death, so live, live, live!! “From Aunty Mame
Keep moving forward “From Meet the Robinson’s
How do you cope with stress?
I watch one of my favorite films, “His Girl Friday”, “Aunty Mame”, “Arsenic and Old Lace “or any early Alfred Hitchcock movies.
Do you sing in the shower? What songs?
Yes! I sing on the time! Presently I sing O Patria Mia and Ritorna Vincitor from Verdi’s Aida, Freedom by George Michael
If you were to write an autobiography, what would the title be?
The straw that didn’t break the camel’s back but reinforced it.
What historical Figure would you love to see in 21st century life?
Jesus Christ and/or Julius Caesar
If you had to describe yourself as a flavor, what would it be?
Vanilla with tons of vanilla beans, chocolate, marshmallow, salted caramel swirl with shaved coconut.
If you were talking to a younger version of you, what advice would you give yourself?
Do not listen to naysayers, follow your instincts and have %500 belief in yourself.