Conversations with Mariah Dion

Today we’d like to introduce you to Mariah Dion

Hi Mariah, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
Music has been my life for as long as I can remember. Growing up in Ontario, Canada, my love of performing was sparked through being on stage in school musicals every year. And when my mom introduced me to country music, I quickly became awestruck by the stories it told and wanted nothing more than to tell my own. I started writing songs when I was seven, which was this huge “a-ha” moment for me. There was really nothing like it, getting to translate my thoughts and emotions into something that had the potential to connect with others. I worked tirelessly; playing shows all around Southern Ontario since I was twelve, writing non-stop, and going back-and-forth between Canada and Nashville to write and record. And now I have officially made the move to Nashville to major in songwriting at Belmont University, which is an absolute dream come true.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
I’ve always been someone who feels a lot. I think it’s one of my greatest assets as a writer, but it can definitely interfere with my daily life. Like, if someone around me starts to cry, I will, one hundred percent, also start bawling. And when I was younger, it proved to be pretty difficult for me to deal with. Things that seemed so easy for other people to get over would take me for what felt like forever. When you feel everything, there’s really no way to shut it off. It all comes flying at you from different directions. It can still get pretty overwhelming at times, but as I’ve grown up, I’ve learned how to deal with it and incorporate it into my writing. It’s a pretty cool ability to have.

On the business side of things, I definitely had to get used to hearing “no”. Like, many, many times. There’s a lot of closed doors and a lot of navigating around them I’ve had to figure out. And it used to take a toll on me, because I would put this immense pressure on myself to get everything right. It’s taken many years and a lot of breakdowns to come to peace with that. And I don’t think the self-doubt ever really goes away. What’s changed is how much stock I put into the little voice in my head that says I’m not good enough.

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I love telling stories through my songs. Whether they be my own, my friends’, or someone else’s entirely, I work to craft songs that convey the human experience in the most raw way possible. When people listen to what I write, I want them to hear themselves, to feel seen in the lyrics and melodies. I also just turned 19, so my writing touches on everything from growing up, to relationships, to feelings like grief and loss, or anger and hurt. I pretty much always write on my acoustic, which adds a more intimate touch. I take inspiration from artists like Kelsea Ballerini, Lizzy McAlpine, and Kacey Musgraves, all women who write exactly what they feel.

What matters most to you? Why?
The women in my family have inspired me so much, and I can honestly say I wouldn’t be where I am without them.

My mom is the strongest person I know, having gone through so much and still putting her family before herself every single day. Her discipline and strong-will is something I will always admire. She’s worked tirelessly to support me, and I owe her so much.

My grandma is the closest person to a saint I’ve ever met, and it’s her infinite kindness and gentle nature that keeps me going. Everyone says that me and her are so alike due to our shared love of reading and baking, and that is the biggest compliment I could ever receive.

My Yiayia was the first to hear me sing when I was just a baby. She was my biggest source of support as I grew up, cheering for me every step of the way. She passed away, but I feel her with me every time I sing.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://mariahdion.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mariahdionmusic/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mariahdionmusic/
• Twitter: https://x.com/mariahdionmusic
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJ0fQVJbP8n54X3SWCtvtyg