19-year-old Kara Marni has been infatuated with music for as long as she can remember. With her adolescent years being soundtracked by classic soul artists, it was on the school run while hearing her mum playing Minnie Riperton’s Loving You that her interest in music was fully realised. From that moment Marni spent hours listening to the track, hoping one day to mimic the iconic whistle register with which Riperton is synonymous with.

Fast-forward to her teen years and she’s set up camp in a shed at the bottom of her garden. It was here that Marni nurtured her voice by attempting to imitate the likes of soul icons Roberta Flack and Anita Baker. This influence of soul icons alongside her appreciation for contemporary greats including Amy Winehouse and Lauryn Hill, has inspired her to develop her own incredible vocal talent.

Self-described as “soul with a sprinkling of pop,” Marni has a voice beyond her years, with soaring, vocals and a distinct sound that sets her firmly in her own lane.