New Jersey born artist Marla Lewis has had a remarkable career as a singer, songwriter, and educator.

Her brand new, original single “Te Quiero a Ti”, offered in both Spanish and English renditions, radiates an enchanting groove and ambience.

Marla’s impeccable vocals, reminiscent of the finest bossa nova melodies, is accompanied by a sophisticated arrangement. With elements such as flute, piano, acoustic bass, electric guitar, drums, and lush backing vocals, the song allows Marla’s voice to shine. 

Originally, Marla had written a really beautiful tune, but could not come up with lyrics to her liking so she asked her friend Dave Kinnoin to write them. Loving what he came up with, the song was recorded on Marla’s first “Songbook” album. As she had always wanted to have it translated into Spanish, it was not until a few more years that she met Melissa Sanley who was able to use the same instrumental tracks as the previous recording: 

“My life was touched by a real life angel — that’s the best way to describe it! I signed up for a Peer Networking program offered by the Grammy organization (I’m a voting member), and they paired me with Melissa Sanley.  Talk about Divine intervention! A superb singer, songwriter, recording artist — she speaks four languages, and now she is my voice teacher! 

But I digress — I played her a song from my first Songbook album to see if she liked it enough to translate it into Spanish.  It had some Spanish words in the lyrics that were written by Dave Kinnoin (I wrote the melody).  She told me the title was not correct Spanish! OMG!  She changed it to “Te Quiero a Ti,” translated the lyrics, coached me on every line, created the cover art, sang backup vocals, and made the lyric video!” 

In essence, the song is warm, very romantic and has a vulnerable vibe too. The powerful and simple message is – New Love, for everyone! 

Taking inspiration from an eclectic array of musical influences including Ella Fitzgerald, big band, folk music from around the world, The Beatles, Laura Nyro, Carole King, James Taylor, Michael Franks, and Phoebe Snow, Marla has made her mark with music that involves different styles and genres. 

For 25 years, Marla worked as an elementary school teacher, a role which ignited her passion for writing songs that are both educational and entertaining for children. This led to significant achievements, notably her song “Leap of Faith”, co-written with Nancy Schimmel, which was featured on the Grammy-winning children’s album “All About Bullies … Big and Small” in 2011.

Her dedication to children’s music is also evident in her award winning albums “I Love to Talk to Plants” (2009) and “We All Laugh in the Same Language” (2007). Produced by the renowned Bob Stander, both of these albums have earned prestigious awards such as the Parent’s Choice Gold and NAPPA Gold. Marla’s songs have also received First Prize and Finalist honors in various national and international competitions. 

Marla’s career took a new direction with her venture into smooth jazz and American standards; with her first album in this genre, “Songbook”, this was a significant shift and was met with critical acclaim. Produced by two-time Grammy award winning producer / engineer Bob Stander, “Songbook” features 14 original tracks that critics have described as “pure bliss.”

Building on this success, Marla released Songbook Volume 2 (SBV2), which further explores smooth jazz, cabaret, and American standards. This album, also produced by Bob Stander, comprises six original tracks showcasing Marla’s vocal talents alongside an accomplished ensemble: Mike Ricchuiti on piano, Teddy Kumpel on electric guitar, Rob Jost on acoustic bass, Matt Miller on drums, Erik Lawrence on sax, Daniel Sadownick on percussion, and Adam Minkoff and Gabby Scherba on backing vocals influenced by the Manhattan Transfer. The album’s first single, “Enchantée,” has achieved remarkable success, reaching #1 on the World Indie Charts and #2 on the Euro Indie Charts.

Her latest single, “Te Quiero a Ti,” is a fantastic song rich in musical influences as well as vibrant passion. Listen to “Te Quiero a Ti” on Spotify now!

Find out more about Marla Lewis on her Website.

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