Emerging initially from the diversity of the music landscape in New York City, the out-of-the-box 18-year-old Ariel Marie has carved a niche of her own in the world of contemporary folk-pop. Now out today, her new single, “Just This Way” takes an upbeat feel and combines sweet lyrics with melodic music to redefine the world of folk-pop music.
“Just This Way” is an anthem of self-acceptance and individuality. Ariel is at her deepest with lyrical introspection: “You don’t have to like it, but I’m just this way.” “Heart of gold, mind of old,” by which she gives way to an assumption of maturity earlier than her age. It is the blending of the rich storytelling for which folk music is known with the effervescent energy of modern pop.
The video for “Just This Way” just takes the song further. This video includes Ariel in some of New York’s most classic locations, capturing warm moments of joy, reflection, and self-discovery. The warmth, human relatability, and simplicity of the video reflect Ariel’s work ethic and artistic concept of keeping it really real.
Ariel Marie’s music career started very early in her life, with the sound of greats such as Joni Mitchell and Bob Dylan, who in turn have been inspired by their frequent play in her household. She learned guitar and banjo early in life, which has defined her sound. She has classical training in voice and a great natural ability as a singer-songwriter, which she has used to great effect in developing her truly original style, mixing folk traditions with a modern twist.
Since then, being in NYU’s music business program has left Ariel with this giant balancing act between music and school. Before that, the song “Cousin of the King” opened her up to a whole new world. These soulful melodies and the way the story in the song unfolds with each lyric brought her accolades and a complete fan following. Written to explore themes of heritage and identity, “Cousin of the King” casts a spotlight on Ariel’s ability to weave personal stories into universal experiences.
How devoted Ariel is to her art! In a more familiar setting, her live performances instill among the audience members a feeling that is truly native. In such an intimate way, Ariel bonds with her audience, giving a performance that is unforgettable and always one of a kind.
In addition to being naturally musical, Ariel is one of the most vocal supporters in terms of earthly and social issues. Nature and conservation are recurring themes in her music, so they become another way for her to disseminate issues that she is very concerned about. Proof of this is her involvement in several charitable organizations, which only goes to show how determined she is to make some changes.
Now, five singles experienced with Ariel Marie as of now and growing more and more, at the center of “Just This Way,” are growing pains and sticking steadfastly with themselves. The combination between folk and pop in this track, aside from the really introspective lyrics, is one to stand out big time in her discography.
Ariel already has a story that tends to inspire young, upcoming artists due to her being in the music business. It’s living proof of managing her studies together with her music career; her hardworking nature singles her out as a talent to be reckoned with.
Push play below: