Women Make Waves: Maru, Creating Music That Heals and Inspires
Hey everyone! We’re excited to dive into the second article of our Women Make Waves Campaign!
Each month, we’ll continue to spotlight incredible women like YOU! ❤️
Meet Maru Jota!
A talented singer & songwriter from Argentina whose journey is as inspiring as her music!
Her story shows us that it’s never too late to pursue your dreams and that sometimes, the best paths are the ones that bring us back to what we truly love.
Maru’s love for music has been with her from the start, but her path to becoming a full-time musician is quite a story. Before releasing her first album, she studied International Relations and worked for the Buenos Aires government and various NGOs. Yet, despite her busy career, music was always in her life, waiting for its moment to shine. That moment came when Maru released her debut album ‘Literal’ in 2019.
She moved to Fuerteventura during the pandemic and there, she got the opportunity to embrace her passion for music even more and work as a full time musician.
She also reconnected with another love - surfing.
During a challenging period of deep personal struggle, music became her sanctuary and healing tool, helping her navigate through those tough times. Surfing also played a crucial role, bringing back the joy, discipline, and resilience she needed.
Now living in London and freshly finished a Masters in Song writing, Maru recently released her second studio album ‘Nuevos Aires’, which is deeply personal and shaped by her experiences.
One of the highlights of this journey has been making her latest music video, "Para Vos."
The music video was produced and directed by Carina Vera Washmann, and it was a truly fantastic team effort!
Check out the music video here and see the magic we created together. Don’t forget to follow @marujotamusica and explore more of her music and story on her website www.marujota.com.
Congratulations on releasing your second studio album! Can you tell us more about the inspiration behind it and the process of creating it?
Thank you! I’m so happy that ‘Nuevos Aires’ is out. The inspiration for it was my life experience. Back in 2019 I went through a depression that lasted a couple of years and music was my way of healing and it helped me to get through it. Writing those songs was very therapeutic for me and they taught me so much. I would find myself saying things in my songs that I didn’t even realise I felt.
Did surfing influence your creativity and approach to music, if at all?
While I was writing songs for the album I started surfing again in Fuerteventura with friends. This wonderful activity has taught me discipline and resilience. It also connected me with the joy of life and felt blessed to be in the sea. It taught me how to overcome frustration and to trust the process.
For me, singing, playing an instrument, writing songs is something I love to do and I’ve learned that with practice it gets better and more enjoyable every time.
But just like surfing, sometimes it can be frustrating to not be able to get an idea out, or not finding the right words or melody for it yet.
What message would you like to share for future generations of female surfers?
I strongly encourage you to dive into surfing with a supportive group. Find your crew and take some lessons together. Whenever possible, try to surf with other women and observe how they tackle the waves. Don’t hesitate to claim your space in the line up – it might seem dominated by men at times, but there’s an inspiring rise of women surfers out there.
“Surfing has personally helped me build confidence and resilience. Embrace the falls and progress at your own pace. Surround yourself with people who love you and share your passion. Remember, it’s all about enjoying the ride, with its highs and lows.”
For anyone following their dreams, it’s crucial to find your team. We grow stronger together, supporting and inspiring one another. Go out there, follow your heart, and ride the waves of life with courage and joy.
Maru’s journey is like a beautiful mix of following her heart, both in making music or catching waves.
And a fun fact about Maru? She took the stage for the first time when she was just 5 years old! The song was supposed to be for a boy, but when no one else was up for it, Maru stepped in - and she’s been shining in the spotlight ever since. 🌟
We’re looking forward to highlighting your stories of following dreams, overcoming difficult times, and making a difference beyond surfing. Got a story to share or know someone who does? We’d love to hear from you! Get in touch with us here.
Feeling inspired? Why not start your own journey with us? Join our upcoming Surf Retreat to experience the excitement of the waves and connect with fellow women who share your passion! 🏄♀️🌊
