Being Marsha's Pen Pal

Q&A with Marsha Ambrosius

We all know the Liverpool born Marsha, in some way, whether we realise it or not.

If like me you ever played Glen Lewis' "World Outside my Window" album on repeat, then you more than likely fell in love with some of the tracks Marsha wrote, co produced and sang on, such as, “Beautiful Eyes” and “Take You High”.

If like me, you often found yourself humming along to the hook on Justin Timberlake's "Cry me a River" then you sang along with Marsha's unmistakable birdsong voice.

If like me, you ever felt proud of what the UK can claim after listening to Floetry, then you felt proud of what Marsha did as the songstress in that group.

And last but certainly not least, if like me, you thought Michael Jackson's "Butterflies" song was one of the most beautiful songs you had heard in a while then you had already been exposed to the beauty that lives in Marsha's lyrics.

Marsha Ambrosius was one half of the British sensation Floetry since 2000, and is now signed to Dr Dre’s Aftermath label since 2008 for her solo career.

I was more than honoured when UK movement "Keep the Faith" put me in touch with Ms Ambrosius after her London performance at the Jazz Cafe in July so that for one moment in my life, I could become Marsha's pen pal.

JK: The word 'anticipating' is an understatement when it comes to your album, are you aware of how huge the demand is to hear your material? How does that make you feel?

Marsha: It excites me :) I'm excited myself so it's great to know that there are a few who feel the same as I do :) I've been somewhat of a recluse because I'm recording a lot, writing and producing a lot so it's nice when I bring my head above water, there are people waiting to hear what I've been doing :)

JK: You've worked with so many artists, Michael Jackson has to be at the top of any songwriter/producer/singer's list of greatest achievements, going forward who would you most like to work with and why, that you haven't already done so?

Marsha: Michael Jackson definitely was the pinnacle of my young career, I guess because I figured that would be the last thing I'd get to do on my wish list I never expected anything else so I've kind of fulfilled what I set out to accomplish. Everything else I get to do is like a new beginning, a surprise. I love to create and whatever feels right could happen with anybody. Doing weird abstract vocals on a Danny Elfman scored film would be fantastic :)

JK: Where do you draw inspiration from for your material?

Marsha: Everyday experiences, movies, something I heard someone say standing behind me waiting in line at the shop :) living life, there's so much to talk about, so many ways to express ones perspective :)

JK: What was the 1st thing that went through your mind when you met Michael Jackson?

Marsha: I couldn't believe it was happening. I kept telling myself to be calm. He made it easy for me. He was so cool and reserved, humble, playful. He reassured my being there was a given. I was supposed to tell him what to do in the studio, how to sing the song, create the harmonies and timing. It was magical :)

JK: Other than music what did you talk about?

Marsha: Everything :) we had jokes for days :)

JK: What has working with Dr Dre done for you? What's he like?

Marsha: He's precise.  He knows exactly what he wants out of a song and is able to deliver however long it takes. It was great working with him:) he's a really cool guy :)

JK: Have u ever cried or come close to crying when making a song?(Which song and why)

Marsha: Definitely :) A few records actually... "Sometimes U Make Me Smile" about my grandmother who passed away in 2003.  At least 3 songs on my soon to be released solo album :) I cry lol I've cried just writing the lyrics let alone trying to execute the emotion by singing the melody... I'm brutally honest though my art :)

JK: What can fans expect from this album, what are the highlights?

Marsha: Well of course I'd say the entire album is the highlight :) you can expect nothing other than me being honest beginning to end :)

JK: Tell me the meaning and thoughts behind the new single

Marsha: Hmmmm that depends on which single you're referring to... I have yet to choose what will be the single from my solo album :) I do have a mix tape entitled "Yours Truly...Marsha Ambrosius" and I've had a few songs off there circulating cyberspace :) "Sunshine" feat. Little Brother "Cloud 9" Slum Village and most recently "Heart Breaker" as an added bonus to the part 2 of the mix tape.. :)

JK: Have u ever been heartbroken before...if so, what happened, and how did u deal with it?

Marsha: Oh "Heart Breaker" Ha! Heartbroken? Yes, yes I have. Wasn't pleasant, never is. Still dealing with it...currently enjoying the healing process. It’s nice to find someone that makes you forget :)

JK: What's the most heartbreaking thing in the news at the moment? Why?

Marsha: There are so many heartbreaking stories in the news right now its kind of hard to pin point which one. Some of which make you just want to throw in the towel and give up hope but that is life. You have to keep on keeping on :) I try to stay positive. What is annoying me in the news right now is anyone that is asked questions regarding Michael Jackson that hadn't even met the man, yet put their 2 cents in just because they can and he is no longer here to defend his honour. Annoying.

JK: What can we expect from Sunday's show? (I'm so excited!)

Marsha: Hopefully you enjoyed it :) I didn't know what to expect :) I'm glad you were excited... I was so happy to be home and to be welcomed in such a way. It was an unforgettable experience for me :)

JK: How are things with you and Natalie Stewart now?

Marsha: We haven't spoken in a while. Communicated via text not too long ago but haven't had full convo in some years now. No love lost on my part but we've gone completely separate ways.

JK: What animation/ cartoons are you a fan of and why?

Marsha: Family Guy because of its quirky references to everything great :) I loved Mask Crusaders, Thundercats, He-Man, anything Disney :) Just saw "Up" in 3D cried the 1st 10mins lol

JK: If you could be one cartoon character, which one would you be and why?

Marsha: One of the flowers in Alice in Wonderland lol I dunno, that's a great question...

JK: What have you been doing today other than interviews?

Marsha: Recording, writing, it’s like 100 degrees in Philadelphia so I'm trying to stay cool :)

JK: Where do you call home?

Marsha: Philadelphia, but don't tell London or Liverpool that :) may move to NY, I've wanted to live there since I was 11 :)

JK: What's next for you?

Marsha: Who knows, but I'm enjoying the journey :)

Thank you :)

Yours Truly, Marsha Ambrosius

Marsha's eagerly anticipated debut album is due out some time this year on Aftermath Records.

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