Today we’d like to introduce you to Marissa Coutts.
Hi Marissa, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I have been a singer for as long as I can remember. I sang constantly as a child and begged my mom for singing lessons until she finally signed me up when I was 11. I have done choirs, musicals, competitions…I started in college studying vocal music, but the competitiveness amongst my peers caused me to develop severe anxiety to the point where I had to drop out of music school and couldn’t sing at all for about three years after. However, after a really bad breakup and what I refer to as my quarter-life crisis, money was incredibly tight, and an opportunity to host karaoke found me. Despite my almost crippling anxiety, I needed the money desperately, so I started work as a karaoke host, and it helped me to find my love for singing again. What made it so special for me though, was helping to create a safe space for people to sing, have fun, and be themselves.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road. On top of hosting, I’ve been working full-time and taking classes for my psychology degree part-time, so that’s been tough, but fulfilling. However, my biggest struggle occurred while getting sober. Learning to host sober was really difficult at first because my anxiety got in the way again, and I almost quit hosting. However, after about a year of sobriety, I found my way, and now I feel like I can connect even better with my singers. I am more present and aware of the sound, and able to read the room much better than before. It was a tough road, but it all made me better and more effective in my work.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
My passion for both music and mental health are very present in my hosting. Music and singing has been a powerful tool in my own life for coping with anxiety, depression, and the hardships that life brings. Hosting karaoke is so special to me because I get to help others do the same thing – all while promoting a sense of community and a safe space for people to have fun being themselves. I think what makes me most proud is how many new singers sing karaoke for the first time at my shows, and they make a point to tell me it’s because they see how safe people feel with me as the host.
Before we let you go, we’ve got to ask if you have any advice for those who are just starting out?
Focus on finding joy in whatever you do. If you can find moments of joy, it makes all the work and effort worthwhile. And don’t be afraid to put yourself out there, even though it can be scary or daunting at times. You’ll likely surprise yourself and become more confident in who you are and what you are doing. And you’ll definitely feel deep fulfillment doing what you love and are passionate about.
Pricing:
- Contact for pricing.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: M.C.MeowEntertainment
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mcmeowentertainment/
