Who is a Maria?
a Maria in an artistic nutshell
Moscow-born independent artist a Maria (Maria Belyanchikova) is a multifaceted creator who seamlessly bridges the worlds of music and visual art. Blending catchy melodies, raw emotion, and bold confidence into her signature “Sexy Pop” sound, she crafts releases that inspire listeners to embrace their true individuality. Beyond her songwriting, she is an accomplished abstract painter and disciplined performer who infuses every aspect of her work with a striking visual identity. Recently partnered with Robot Distro by Golden Robot Records, she continues to expand her reach internationally while preparing for her upcoming album, Provocative. Her discipline and creative goals are anchored in staying authentic to her creative vision and crafting art that outlives her. As she says,
Real success is staying true to your vision, continuing to grow as an artist, and never losing the courage to create.
More than a bio
a Maria (real name Maria Belyanchikova) was born on September 12, 1986, in Moscow, Russia. She studied piano and clarinet at music school and holds degrees in economics, finance, management, and psychology, including an MBA and postgraduate studies. She began recording and performing as an independent artist seven years ago, describing her music as Sexy Pop. a Maria is in a long-term life partnership and has a 14-year-old daughter.
However when you look at her art, it becomes immediately obvious that a Maria is more still than her bio. 1 In Music meets the Sexy Pop music artist and all around creative artist a Maria for some inspirational words, and a look through the creative pallette that quenches her audience’s soul. 1 In Music was excited to emeet with this exceptional talent for an exclusive interview.
1 In Music: What is unique about you and your music?
a Maria: What makes me unique is that I don’t separate music from the rest of my creativity. I’m not only a singer and songwriter but also a visual artist, so every release is part of a bigger artistic vision. I describe my style as Sexy Pop—music that combines catchy melodies, confidence, emotion, and a touch of provocation. I write from personal experiences, turning challenges into songs that inspire people to be authentic, embrace their individuality, and express themselves without fear.
a Maria and Music
1 In Music: What or who shaped your music and who supports you?
Many people have shaped my journey, but my biggest inspiration comes from life itself. My husband has always believed in me and supports my dreams. My daughter is another source of motivation, and I’m grateful to have many wonderful friends who encourage me along the way. But at the end of the day, I’ve learned that the most important support comes from within. I support myself—me, myself, and I. Believing in yourself is what keeps you moving forward, even when the road gets difficult.
The relationship between this creative soul and music is as simple as these words from the Sexy Pop songstress:
“Music is who I am”
a Maria
Let us find out more from a Maria herself as 1 In Music ask her a few carefully crafted questions to uncover the artist behind the name.
1 In Music: When did you realise you were going to make music professionally?
a Maria [a M]: I realized I could pursue music professionally several years ago when I signed a distribution contract with Robot Distro by Golden Robot Records. Their belief in my music gave me the confidence to take my career seriously. It was a turning point that showed me my work could reach an international audience and encouraged me to continue growing as an independent artist.
1 In Music: What type of music do you listen to?
a M: I mostly listen to English-language pop music, as it inspires both my songwriting and my artistic vision. I also enjoy rock from time to time, especially songs with strong melodies, powerful vocals, and authentic emotion. I believe listening to different styles helps me grow as an artist while staying true to my own sound.
1 In Music: Who, to you, is the most undervalued music artist?
a M: It’s difficult to name just one artist because there are so many talented independent musicians who deserve more attention. I admire artists who stay true to themselves and create music from the heart, even without mainstream recognition. I believe some of today’s rising stars are still waiting to be discovered.
a Maria’s Creative and Performing Journey
1 In Music: How do you prepare for your performances?
a Maria [a M]: I take preparing for a performance very seriously. A few days before a show, I eat much less to feel light and fully focused on stage. I carefully plan every stage outfit well in advance because I believe the visual image is just as important as the music. I rehearse extensively, and I even practice singing while standing on a vibration platform. It helps me build stamina and breath control so I can sing confidently while moving around the stage. Every performance is the result of discipline, careful preparation, and passion.
1 In Music: What do you do when you don’t do music (creative or otherwise) and that you are passionate about?
a M: When I’m not making music, I spend most of my time painting. Creating visual art is another way for me to express emotions and ideas that can’t always be put into words. I work in an abstract style, and painting gives me the same sense of freedom and creativity that I find in music. For me, both art forms are deeply connected—they inspire and complement each other.
1 In Music: Success to you is…?
a M: To me, success in music is not about fame or numbers—it’s about creating something that outlives you. If even one song can truly touch someone’s heart, help them through a difficult time, or inspire them to believe in themselves, then I consider that a success.
Real success is staying true to your vision, continuing to grow as an artist, and never losing the courage to create.
1 In Music: What do you wish you were told when you started out and that you think would help anyone who starts out?
a M: I wish someone had told me how difficult this journey would be. That it wouldn’t always be rewarding, profitable, or satisfying, and that building a career in music takes years of patience, resilience, and hard work. Sometimes it can feel like you’re giving everything and getting very little in return. It takes a long time before you realize you’ve actually achieved something. And if I’m being completely honest, there were moments when I wish someone had simply said, “Don’t go down this road.” But looking back, I know I wouldn’t have listened—because music is who I am.
What is next for a Maria?
1 In Music: Any upcoming projects?
a Maria [a M]: I’m currently working on my upcoming album, Provocative. Most of the songs are already finished, and we’re in the final stages of preparing the release. The album reflects my artistic vision, combining confidence, emotion, and bold storytelling through my Sexy Pop sound. I’m excited to share this new chapter with my listeners and can’t wait for everyone to hear what we’ve created.
1 In Music: Thank you so much for this interview.
Can you leave us with a few places to find a Maria’s music please?
a M: