Social media platforms being the best inventions ever, artistes from across the world have accepted them as a new way to reach out to their fans.
Among them are also live-music band performers who have taken Social Media as their means to keep their fans intact with their performance.
Today we have one such musician among us who performed live through Facebook.
Maya Likembe.
Maya Likembe (Mary-Ann Meiers) is a Luxembourg singer-songwriter and composer. While firmly rooted in the jazz tradition her music is influenced by Latin, world and soul vibes.
The Maya Likembe Combo is her latest recording project which summarizes a decade of original songs that exude Latin, world and jazz influences.
The band performed live online for the first time at Foundry Luxembourg, and we sat with the singer to talk about her experience.
This is one of a kind show that you have put together, especially because of the lock and everything. Is this the first time you have done something like this?
Yes, this is the first time we have organised an online concert because of the lockdown and I was really excited to be a part of it. I had never done a live performance online and having done one now, I really enjoyed it even though it was live streaming.
The idea was initiated by Gustavo Morales our percussionist and also the project manager with Patrizia Luchetta from Another Level Creative Group.
You must have been frustrated not being able to perform live and interact with your audience. Do you think this is a steppingstone to a new way to reach out all the music lovers beyond borders?
I think it is definitely a new way to reach out to the audience. I think people would have already had this idea of performing live online in the past, and hesitated. But today, they are forced to do it. I think it works.
What inspired you to do such an event?
It has been a while since we have given something to our listeners and fans out there. With this performance, I just want to share with the public that we are still here for you.
Also, ever since the lockdown, the band has not gotten a chance to perform together and when the idea was put forth, we were all very excited.
What inspired you to create the The Maya Likembe Combo Project?
The project encompasses the development of music over different periods. I have been performing cover songs for a long time in the Jazz genre like Jazz Bossa Nova and Brazilian variety like Cape Verdean songs that are a bit more unconventional.
With this project I wanted to create something of my own and present it to the world; just like the word “Maya” which depicts the Goddess of illusion and also creation at the same time. And with this project create something of my own.
In my experience, I have come across musicians who did not want to play new music because of their cultural background. They wanted to keep their tradition intact. Hence this project encourages to think in a more alternative manner and to come out of that tradition. People might find it a bit difficult to accept in the beginning, but I think they will eventually welcome it.
As a performer in Luxembourg, can you get all the support you need from the local music industry?
Yes, people do support music, but there are indeed some restrictions. There is a process where everyone is allowed to apply for it by sending a dossier. However, there is a strict selection process that take place to offer the aid.
What kind of improvements do you think are needed to help the young aspiring performers?
Today I feel there are more opportunities for Jazz in Luxembourg. But there is still a lack of interested listeners in this music genre as opposed to others like Rock or Pop music. It is not with the same amount of enthusiasm that people receive a Jazz player when compared to a rock music player. Perhaps, the radio stations can play a role in improving the condition by playing more alternative music as well alongside of commercial popular music.
Schools can also play an important role in encouraging music. School bands could be extended more unto high school level as well and integrate with the curriculum.
Also, instead of going to the separate conservatoire to learn notes, new music schools (public or private which are not expensive) could be introduced with professionals. Such scenarios are very common in the UK and US where people grow into music. It is a bit more challenging in Luxembourg as we do not even have a lot many rehearsal rooms to begin with. Rockhal is developing more rehearsal rooms now.
How have you been adjusting with lockdown?
I work two jobs in my usual days. I am a musician and also teach art to students. Ever since the lockdown has started it has been calm and I have been enjoying that a bit. No rushing from one job to the other.
But at the same time, it has been difficult not seeing friends, family and musicians. Organising online rehearsals could be a bit challenging as there are problems with delays. I also had some problems with the neighbours complaining about my singing.
What were your daily routines to keep your voice in shape? How can others learn to keep their voices in shape and improve their singing?
I train with my standard songs and I practice voice exercises and Yoga. I am also making a regime for the voice too. I drink warm water with ginger and lemon every day to relax my throat and perform humming exercises. Also, it is better to avoid milk and milk products before a performance or concert.
Furthermore, reading is as much an important aspect for a singer. I have recommended several books on my Maya-Likembe page as I believe that a singer must also develop the poetic skills. I believe that a singer is someone between musician and poet.
What are your upcoming projects?
I am planning to record an album this summer in Luxembourg with a producer from New York.
What message would you like to give to young aspiring talents?
I would like to say that that believe in what you do, even during difficult times. You will come across people who will criticise your work and your voice saying you are not good enough. But don’t be discouraged by it. Keep working on your talent. Nothing comes from nothing. Keep improving.
