Enniskillen musician Maria Cameron has been singing since she could talk. Performing her first solo gig in her hometown at the age of 17, she has never looked back. With weddings her forte, Maria is a versatile performer and enjoys playing an upbeat night-time gig with her band as much as performing a more emotive set at a ceremony.

Here she talks to The Impartial Reporter about rubbing shoulders with Nathan Carter, keeping in touch with couples whose weddings she has performed at and her go-to encore song.

 

How would you describe your sound?

I would best describe it as comforting, reflective and emotive. However, when I play at my night-time gigs I like to think my sound is versatile, upbeat and fun.

 

What genre/genres of music do you most enjoy playing?

It would have to be pop first. I really love singing a good ballad and I've also grown to appreciate Irish traditional music.

 

How long have you been performing?

I've been singing since I could talk, then followed by singing at the Feis, school events and competitions. I grew up with country music, accompanying by mum at gigs when I was only 13.

My first ever solo gig was when I was 17 and it was in a place called Jazzey's in Enniskillen.

 

READ MORE: Fermanagh musicians featuring on Roadie TV’s virtual music sessions

 

Where do you perform?

Mostly wedding ceremonies, afternoon drinks receptions and night-time band gigs but I also get asked to do other events and pub gigs.

 

What is your favourite song to play and why?

It would have to be 'With Or Without You' by U2. I always sing it with my younger sister, it's such a beautiful, timeless song and we make it our own. I have recently done a cover of it with Roadie TV which is on my music page on Facebook!

 

What has been your biggest gig to date?

When playing for weddings you could be playing for up to 400/500 people. Another big gig was when our band was asked to take part in a video recording for Nathan Carter.

 

Any funny gig stories?

The more you get out playing the more likely you'll see things but I won't let anyone down! Haha.

 

Who are your major influences?

Well, there are so many artists that inspire me including Kodaline, Ryan McMullan, The Coronas, Eva Cassidy, Adele and Dolly Parton.

I think they are all passionate singers and story writers that are so easy to listen to.

 

Do you write your own songs? If so, what inspires your songwriting?

I haven't as of yet but I have a few ideas for the future so that's something to look forward to. When I do get pen to paper, it'll probably be a tear jerker!

 

What would be your dream gig?

I'm really happy doing what I do. I just can't wait to get back after everything settles down again but if Ed Sheeran is looking for a 'Fermanagh girl' as a support act, I'll not say no. Haha!

 

Best moment as a musician so far?

Every couple is special and every wedding is magical and some couples that I meet have really made my experience as a musician so much more rewarding. There have been couples that I have still kept in touch with from years ago and it's so lovely to see them building families. It makes you feel very part of it.

 

What is the most unusual venue you have played?

I have played in so many churches and venues but the one I will always remember was in Malin Head in Donegal. We played on a really steep hill in one of the oldest churches in Ireland and it was gorgeous.

 

What is your ‘go-to’ encore song?

'Tell Me Ma' at the end of the night, it's a good lively one and everyone can sing and dance along.

 

What's the best thing about performing?

The job satisfaction is like no other. Everyone is out to have a good time so you are surrounded by happy people.

 

Do you always perform solo or do you also play with a band?

I mostly perform with a pianist for my wedding ceremony gigs but also play in a five piece band called Addiction on the weekends.

 

How has lockdown impacted you as a musician?

It has massively impacted and I think it's negatively affected all musicians and other wedding suppliers. This was supposed to be one of my busiest years in music. I went from a full diary of weddings to virtually nothing! But I'm hoping to make up for this whenever the restrictions are lifted!

 

What does 2021 hold for you?

I might not be able to physically play for people at the moment but I'll try my best to keep promoting and posting on my music page!

With the vaccine programme in place, I hope weddings will go ahead in the near future and thankfully I have a very busy diary this year.

 

Any last words?

I'd like to say thank you to everyone who has supported me from the start either by booking me for an event or by following my page. I absolutely love what I do and I treasure the support.

I would like to send everyone love and hope for the future. Keep safe and well.