You’ve just checked out Denise Marsa’s latest release, ‘HOLE (Until Dawn Remix)‘ – now learn about the artist herself in her own words as she speaks with Essentially Pop.
Looking back on the past year and a half, how does it feel to see this reinvention taking shape?
It feels like a level of momentum I’ve never experienced before. On the advice of Jo Hart of Hart Media UK—who was set to promote my album PIVOTAL in 2024—I leaned into remixes as a way to build real buzz in the UK. She introduced me to the remix team, and since we began releasing them in March 2024, we haven’t looked back. We keep stirring the pot, now working toward our eighth consecutive Top 10, with HOLE currently at #17 as I write this. I stay focused on creating, moving forward, and not looking back. I’m over the moon—and the sun—that people are truly connecting with what we’re making.
What part of your life fed most directly into “HOLE” when it first came together?
I feel deep empathy for people enduring so much turmoil, pain, and disruption in the world. It’s unfathomable how much suffering exists—and for what. The level of dysfunction can feel overwhelming, and at times, I want to hide from it or pretend it isn’t happening. But that would be a cop-out. Instead, I wrote about those feelings and chose to share them. We’re never alone when we do, and in that sharing, we may help others find a way through.
“Pop with purpose” is such a clear thread in your work; how do you make sure the message stays strong without losing that dance-floor energy?
For me, the energy starts in the vocal performance of any recording; it defines the tone, and of course, the lyrics and the melody. I send references and may also suggest a few original parts from the album cut stays in the remix. The remix team is 100% in tune with me and my work at this point. We have created a very special connection through the music. They have put me smack dab in the middle of the UK dance floors and on the charts, and I so appreciate them. And tell them often!
Your UK remix team keeps showing up in a big way — what do Jim Sullivan and Craig Jones bring out in your songs that feels different every time?
They bring a freshness, musicality, and timelessness that align perfectly with my work. We never rush the process—Jim only sends a track when he knows it’s ready. My co-producer, Paul A. Harvey (album cuts), on RISK + HEAL, and I also collaborate from my original home-studio demos, preserving key parts I want to remain. The process is seamless because we trust each other’s instincts and are deeply attuned to what makes a strong remix. Vocals are just one part of that equation. Craig and I stay in weekly contact; he shares DJ feedback from across the UK so I can track momentum—more spins mean higher chart placement. We’re now strategically aligning remix timing with videos, upcoming mainstream radio pitching, and new press. I keep everyone informed—they’re a vital part of my career at this stage.
With seven Top Ten UK club hits already, did that momentum influence how you approached this remix?
Yes, it did. I have found this niche, and people hearing my work is certainly influencing my writing and my demos as well as the work I do with Paul – it is all so connected. I feel a greater power to express and share, and nurture through my music.
What changed or opened up emotionally when “HOLE (Until Dawn Remix)” took shape?
I felt like I was a part of the bigger picture. Oftentimes, I am reclusive, and with this track, it feels more like I am intentionally reaching out to everyone for a connection. That feels very comforting.
The track feels rooted in hope during a rough moment in the world — was that something you set out to do, or did it happen naturally?
It was natural; however, I was getting pretty upset with world events. It felt like I had to do something to contribute to the repair of the chaos and help people to heal. I think there is an overall feeling of musicians coming together to help everyone to cope. Music is a phenomenal way to change the world or at least the energy in the room. One note at a time.
The Music video is intimate and personal — what did filming in that space mean to you?
It was the most fun, as if all the years of my working on my music and finding ways to write songs that are not derivative of themselves, or other songs, came to a fulfillment. I felt complete as an artist. Reassured, captivated by the instruments and those who live to make music with them. There are many of us out there.
Is there anything you’d like fans to know about what’s coming next?
Keep listening, sharing, and commenting, and know they are a big part of my now happenings and my future. Please come out to a show as well, when I book them, and let’s say hello.
Watch the moving music video for ‘HOLE (Until Dawn Remix)’ below, and find out more about Denise Marsa and her music online on Facebook, Instagram, Spotify, YouTube, and her official website.
