Interview with Martika 29/06/16

Live and Loud was fortunate enough to speak to 80’s superstar Martika.  Bursting on our scene at the tender age of 18 Martika released her self titled album ‘Martika” – with the mega hit Toy Soldiers and Carole King remake I Feel The Earth Move.

Before her solo career Martika appeared in Kids Incorporated (American children’s variety show) from 1984-1987 as a regular cast member, alongside no other than Black Eyed Peas lead singer Fergie.

“Fergie was amazing, this 8 year old with attitude but the most amazing voice you could ever imagine” Im so happy to see her go onto bigger and better things, I knew she would make it big!”

Going back to the self titled album and Toy Soldiers reaching No. 1 in the U.S and No.5 in Australia how did you feel about being thrust into the spotlight at 18?

“It was surreal while most of my friend were going off to college, I was promoting my music.. Still living at home I just wanted to stay at home and hang out with my friends”

Your second album followed 3 years later – Martika’s Kitchen. On this album you collaborated with Prince who is the ultimate musician. How did this eventuate?

“I was at the record company and we were talking about a new album and they said “who would you like to work with?” I said Prince”.

Prince produced four songs on the album  – When they met, Prince asked if Martika had any song ideas — she handed over a journal including a prayer she’d written called Love Thy Will Be Done.

“Going to Paisley Park was amazing.. Its the ultimate musicians playground.. I would watch him rehearse for an upcoming tour, so to work with him was a dream..”

Being in the industry so long, what’s the biggest change you have seen?

“The internet has changed everything, you don’t have to pay for music so it takes away from the artist who work so hard to produce the music. You have to hire musicians as well as book the studio which is expensive, you make no money. I have seen artist’s just stop what they are doing because they can’t afford it and labels closing down. The only way you make money is by touring.

You actually walked away from music in 1992 – is this true?

“Not really, I was always in the background writing or producing, doing something. I never left as such”

In 2003 Eminem sampled Toy Soldiers. What was the impact for you?

“It was amazing, it was like Martika’s back and I actually liked what Eminem did with the track, it’s so good when someone else can create something else with your music..

Speaking of which, you took Carole Kings hit ‘I feel the earth move’ and turned it into a dance hit. How did she feel about that?

“I don’t know, Carole and I have never met as yet, I would like too but we haven’t been in the same room.

You are headlining the Totally 80’s tour down under. Whats your favourite song to perform live?

“Toy Soldiers, this will be this first time performing it since the passing of Prince so it’s going to be emotional and special, and I am hoping the fans will enjoy it as much as I will performing it.”

Is there anything you are wanting to see and do while down under?

“Well I have been to Australia twice when I was promoting my albums. Last time I came down I pat and had a photo with a baby kangaroo. So this time I would love to hold a koala, that would be amazing. It would be so cool.”

What about climbing the Sydney Harbour Bridge? It’s amazing once at the top you can get a full landscape of Sydney

“I will have to check this out also”

Martika is in Australia for the Totally 80’s Tour