The Marías have become one of the most captivating acts in modern music, blending psychedelic soul, indie-pop, and Latin influences into a sound that feels both timeless and fresh. But who are the people behind the music? This article dives into The Marías’ biography, ages, key stats, and fascinating facts about the band that’s redefining genre boundaries.
The Marías: A Brief Biography
The Marías are a Los Angeles-based band led by the enchanting María Zardoya (vocals, guitar) and Josh Conway (drums, production). Formed in 2016, the band quickly gained attention for their dreamy, bilingual soundscapes and cinematic visuals. Their name is a playful nod to María’s first name, reflecting the collaborative spirit of the group.
The duo met in 2016 at a mutual friend’s loft, where a casual jam session turned into a creative partnership. Joined by touring members Edward James (keys), Jesse Perlman (guitar), and Carter Lee (bass), The Marías have grown into a full-band experience that blends live instrumentation with lush electronic production.
María Zardoya: The Voice of The Marías
- Full Name: María Zardoya
- Birthdate: March 12, 1992 (Age: 31 as of 2023)
- Birthplace: Puerto Rico
- Background: Raised in Atlanta, Georgia, and Madrid, Spain, María’s multicultural upbringing deeply influences her bilingual songwriting. Her smoky, sultry vocals and poetic lyrics—often alternating between English and Spanish—are a hallmark of The Marías’ sound.
Josh Conway: The Mastermind Behind the Sound
- Full Name: Joshua Conway
- Birthdate: August 22, 1990 (Age: 33 as of 2023)
- Birthplace: Los Angeles, California
- Background: A producer, drummer, and film composer, Josh brings a cinematic quality to The Marías’ music. His expertise in analog production and film scoring has shaped the band’s retro-futuristic aesthetic.
The Marías: Key Stats
- Formation Year: 2016
- Genre: Psychedelic soul, indie-pop, Latin jazz
- Record Label: Independent (formerly with Neon Gold Records)
- Debut EP: Superclean, Vol. I (2017)
- Debut Album: Cinema (2021)
- Monthly Spotify Listeners: Over 5 million (as of 2023)
- Most Streamed Track: “Cariño” (over 200 million streams)
- Tours: Coachella (2022), Lollapalooza, and the Cinema World Tour (2023)
Fascinating Facts About The Marías
- Bilingual Brilliance: The Marías seamlessly blend English and Spanish in their lyrics, making them pioneers in the Latin alternative music scene.
- Cinematic Inspirations: Their music is heavily influenced by film, with their debut album Cinema exploring themes of love, illusion, and identity.
- Viral Breakthrough: The 2018 single “Cariño” went viral, amassing millions of streams and introducing the band to a global audience.
- Collaborations: They’ve worked with artists like Bad Bunny, Cuco, and Benny Sings, showcasing their versatility across genres.
- Visual Storytellers: Their music videos (e.g., “Basta Ya,” “Hush”) are known for their retro, arthouse aesthetic, often drawing comparisons to 1970s cinema.
- Live Performances: The Marías’ concerts are immersive experiences, blending intimate vocals with stunning visuals and moody lighting.
- Cultural Impact: María Zardoya’s role as a Latina frontwoman has inspired a new generation of artists embracing bilingualism and cultural fusion.
The Marías’ Rise to Fame
- 2017–2018: Released the Superclean EPs, which became indie favorites and established their signature sound.
- 2021: Dropped their debut album Cinema, featuring hits like “Hush” and “Little by Little.”
- 2022: Performed at Coachella and joined Bad Bunny on his Un Verano Sin Ti stadium tour.
- 2023: Embarked on the Cinema World Tour, selling out venues across North America, Europe, and Asia.
What’s Next for The Marías?
The band has hinted at new music in 2024, promising to push their sound even further while staying true to their psychedelic-soul roots. Fans can expect more bilingual storytelling, lush production, and cinematic visuals.
Conclusion
The Marías are more than just a band—they’re a cultural movement. With María Zardoya’s soulful vocals, Josh Conway’s masterful production, and a sound that transcends borders, they’ve carved a unique space in modern music. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to their world, The Marías’ story is one of creativity, collaboration, and breaking barriers.
Explore More
- Stream their music: Spotify | Apple Music
- Follow their journey: Instagram | TikTok
- Catch them live: Check their website for tour updates.