Meet Marclesia Karim | Artist/Singer-songwriter, Arranger & Producer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Marclesia Karim and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Marclesia, have there been any changes in how you think about work-life balance?
Balance has always become my principle of life. I would say it is one of the most important thing that every individual should have in their life. As a musician, an artist, I would prioritize maintaining and developing the gift that God has given me which is my voice. By that, I would spare some time to practice, basically sing anything I want for at least 45 minutes a day. But for me, singing is so much more than just producing sound from the vocal cord. My whole body is my instrument. So now, I have to conserve not only my voice but also my body health. Doing exercise and be mindful of what I consume are another significant part of balance as those things benefit me and my work life. Setting goals and priorities. I would list down my short or long-term goals and narrow down things I have to do to achieve that. But it doesn’t stop there, the execution is not less important. It is sometimes hard to find the courage or you could find many other reasons to doubt yourself, but always remember to focus on yourself. I would make time just for myself to refocus, believe in myself and get back on track.
Last but not least, is rest. Of course getting enough sleep, but for me rest is also taking break from music and do what I want to do besides music. As a musician and singer, music is my “work”. I sing everyday, I listen to music everyday, perform, and create music. And sometimes I could get tired of all of it and even when writer’s block was all in my head. So when all of those hit, I would do something fun such as going out with friends, cook, explore something new, or meditate.
Music is my life and my work. So even when I get tired of it, I know that I always come back to it. The fact is that music brings me peace and drive to keep going, keep creating, keep inspired and inspiring.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
My music journey began when I went to Berklee College of Music to pursue music as a career. And it was one of the best decision I have ever made in my life. There are so much experiences and lessons that I’ve learned while I was studying at Berklee. I am heavily influenced with R&B, gospel, jazz and pop music that has inspired me to release my single in 2020, called ‘Let Me Go’. Being at Berklee and in the United States have opened so many opportunities that I could possibly imagine. In 2019, I had the opportunity to be part of one of the biggest concert at the Berklee Performance Center representing my home country, Indonesia. The Berklee Indonesian Ensemble had successfully presented and introduced Indonesian traditional music globally.
In May 2022, I was humbled to be able to perform at the Berklee commencement in the Agganis Arena, honoring one of the greatest composer, James Newton Howard.
It was quite a journey to get to where I am today. There were so much things I’ve learned along the way. One of the most important thing I’ve learned is making connection with as many people as possible. Expanding your network is very important as you never know how many more opportunities may come.
Another important lesson is that to never compare yourself to others. To be surrounded by so many great musicians, it is easy to compare yourself to others. You would easily think that you are not good enough. But then I’ve learned that I have to change my mindset that all those insecurities cannot drag me down instead it should encourage me to be better. Don’t try to be someone that you’re not. Be confident, embrace your voice, embrace your uniqueness, own your authenticity, and stay true to yourself.
I want to be known as an Asian musician who can inspire and bring people together through my music.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I am such a foodie person and I like all kinds of food, so I would take them to my favorite restaurants in Boston-and yes, I am currently based in Boston. I would take them to a seafood restaurant, Neptune Oyster where they serve the best oysters and also to my go-to Italian restaurant, The Daily Catch. I would also take them to several historical museums and buildings in the city, like Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum or Boston Common. I love to hang out at Earls Kitchen, it’s a restaurant/bar where people can actually converse easily, drink, and just hang out.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
My family. I am beyond blessed to have my family, for all the love, the endless support, and for every single thing that I have in my life. I dedicate this to my parents-the most selfless and hard-working people who have taught me to always remember to use my talents that are given to glorify God, to always be grateful, and to become a person with a big heart.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marclesiakarim/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/marclesia.winanda/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCGxWpBrpSyJg_PIavMx43zg