Exploring the Journey of Georgian-American Metalcore Artist Aleksandra Marshaniia

Photo credit: @cnnemo1983

I conducted a Q&A session with metalcore artist Aleksandra Marshaniia originally from Georgia, the country, but now residing in Los Angeles, California. During our discussion, we explored her upbringing, musical journey, her music, and various other topics. I hope you enjoy reading this.

Amit Ahuja: Let’s start at the beginning — tell us about where you grew up. What

was your hometown like, both in atmosphere and in spirit? Can you paint a picture of the people, the culture, or even the small everyday details that made it feel like home? How did that environment— whether nurturing, challenging, or somewhere in between—shape the person and the artist you were becoming? Looking back, are thereany particular memories or lessons from that time that you now see as especially formative?

Aleksandra Marshaniia: I’m originally from Georgia — the country, not the U.S. state — and it’s one of those places that’s beautiful on the outside but incredibly complex on the inside.There’s this constant mix of warmth and struggle. People are proud, emotional, and strong, but there’s also a lot of unspoken pain underneath it all.

I actually grew up in Moscow, Russia, but the most memorable parts of my

childhood happened in Georgia. My grandmother was a doctor in a small village,

and that’s where I spent most of my time as a kid. It was right after the collapse of

the Soviet Union, so there was no electricity, no running water, no central heating

— even hospitals and most government services didn’t exist for civilians back then.

I know what the fear of war feels like. I know hunger, and I know what it’s like to

live through shortages of hygiene supplies and basic needs. I have a lot of vivid

memories from that time — both good and bad. As an adult living in modern

society, I sometimes still feel like I’m recovering from the cultural shock and

traumas of that era.

But I also remember the beautiful parts — the adventures, the freedom. There were

so many kids in the village, and since we didn’t have access to the internet or TV,

we spent all day outside, climbing trees and making our own toys by hand.

People didn’t really have money, so they survived by exchanging goods and

services — food, help, labor. It was a community built on survival and mutual

support, and that environment shaped how I see the world. It taught me that even

in hard times, there’s beauty in resilience and humanity in struggle.

Amit Ahuja: Let’s talk a bit about your roots and how they’ve shaped who you are

today — both as a person and as an artist. How do you think your upbringing still echoes through your life and your music? Were there certain values, lessons, or even moments from your family or community that stuck with you and still guide your creative choices or the way you connect with people through your songs? Do you ever

find that pieces of your background — like the sounds, stories, or

emotions you grew up around — sneak their way into your lyrics or

performances without you even realizing it?

Aleksandra Marshaniia: My background definitely shaped my art in huge ways. I had a pretty traumatizing childhood, and culturally, it was complex. I have a lot of vivid memories — some good, some difficult — and a lot of traumas that came from feeling like I didn’t fully belong anywhere.

I grew up in Moscow, but as a Georgian in an immigrant family, I never felt truly

at home there nor accepted. And even though I love Georgia, it’s not a place where

I felt I could be completely free either.

There’s a lot of misogyny and homophobia throughout Eastern Europe that makes

me uncomfortable. It’s a regional cultural issue, and it’s not about singling out one

place — it’s just something that shaped my experiences.

All of that deeply influenced my music. It’s dark and aggressive because it’s my

way of processing trauma. I think a lot about social injustices and the experiences

I’ve had with misogyny and patriarchy, not just back home but even in the metal

scene in America. It’s getting better, but it’s still there.

Ultimately, I want to be the role model for young girls that I never had. My background and the feeling of not being accepted absolutely shaped who I am as

an artist. My music is where I heal, and it’s where I turn all that pain into

something powerful.

Amit Ahuja: And as a Georgian-American artist, how do you feel your heritage

plays into your identity in the alternative rock and metal world?

There’s been a real rise in heavy and alternative music coming out of Georgia lately — do you feel a sense of pride or even a little responsibility being part of that movement? How do you find thebalance between honoring where you come from and embracing the global, experimental energy that metal and alt-rock are known for

today? Do you think that mix gives your music a unique edge or

emotional depth that sets you apart?

Aleksandra Marshaniia: Being a Georgian-American artist is a huge part of my identity, even when I don’t always consciously think about it. My roots give me emotional depth, and my Western experience gives me the freedom to express it.

I feel a deep sense of pride seeing heavy and alternative music rising from our region. It’s not just Georgia — bands like System of a Down from Armenia have made a huge impact, and that’s the kind of global presence I’d love to see for Georgian artists too. We have a rich culture and beautiful people, and I want to bring that worldwide recognition to our heritage. Besides that, my vocals naturally have this traditional Georgian rasp — kind of like a subtle vocal fry that’s common among Georgian people. It’s something that naturally colors my sound and gives it a unique edge.

Amit Ahuja: Can you remember the pivotal moment that first sparked your

passion for music? Was it hearing a song that completely stopped you in your tracks, seeing a live performance that stirred something deep within you, or perhaps experiencing a personal moment that made you realize music wasn’t just something to listen to—it was something you needed to create? How did that realization influence the path you decided to take as an artist? And before launching your own solo work and forming your current band, were you involved in any earlier musical projects or collaborations that helped shape your sound and identity?

Aleksandra Marshaniia: My passion for music started before I even knew what to call it. As a kid, music was my escape, but the first truly pivotal moment was hearing Linkin Park’s “In the End.” I was at my friend’s place, and her older brother was playing computergames with this music blasting in the background. The moment I heard it, I was completely blown away. It was like something just clicked inside me. I realized that

this was the kind of music that resonated with my soul — dark, emotional, and

powerful. It made me feel truly alive and understood.The second big moment was seeing an underground live show at a local club. It wasn’t a famous band, just people my age getting up on stage and playing theirhearts out. They weren’t perfect, but that’s exactly what made it magical for me. I realized I didn’t have to be perfect to start making music — I just had to be brave enough to begin. Their imperfections made it feel accessible, and I loved that. It showed me that I could bring my own quality and polish over time, but I didn’t need to wait for the perfect moment. I just needed to start.

Photo Credit: @cnnemo1983

Amit Ahuja: What first drew you into the alternative rock and metal scene? Was it the rhythm, the intensity of the instrumentation, the raw energy, or the emotional depth of the music that captivated you? Beyond the sound itself, did the visual style, attitude, or culture of the genre resonate with your personality and sense of identity? And was your connection to this music something that developed gradually, or did you know

right away that this was where you truly belonged artistically?

Aleksandra Marshaniia: What really drew me into the alternative rock and metal scene was the electric guitars and that distorted, aggressive sound. The moment I heard those heavy riffs, it was like hearing the harmony of my own emotions. I thought, “Oh my god, this is exactly how I feel inside.” That cinematic, intense guitar sound created a vision I could be part of and relate to.

I also love that underground and alternative music isn’t just about the sound — it’s

about meaning. The aggression and attitude are ways of standing up for yourself,

for things that have been suppressed for so long. It’s about letting anger out in a

healthy way. Rock and metal let you talk about your pain, your shame, and all

those big emotions that society often tells you to hide. It normalizes being loud,

vulnerable, and real — and I absolutely love that.

Amit Ahuja: What has your journey been like as a female vocalist in the metal

genre? Over the years, how have you navigated the dynamics of a scene that’s often seen as heavily male-dominated? Have you encountered any unique challenges—whether in terms of perception, creative freedom, or performance opportunities—that have shaped the way you approach your music and stage presence? On the flip side, do you feel that bringing a female perspective has given youdistinct strengths or insights that add something fresh and powerful to your sound? And how have your experiences within the community—whether with fans, fellow musicians, or industry professionals— helped you grow both as an artist and as a person?

Aleksandra Marshaniia: Honestly, being a woman in the metal scene is a huge topic — it’s hard to shrink it down into one neat answer. But I’ll do my best to sum it up.

There are so many layers to it. People often assume that any achievement I have must be credited to a guy behind the scenes — like I couldn’t have done it myself. It’s frustrating because it means working twice as hard for the same respect a man gets by default. There’s a lot of misogyny, sexualization, and the constant need to prove yourself. I’ve had people yell humiliating things during shows and leave disgusting comments online. And sometimes men feel so intimidated by strong women in the scene that their toxic masculinity kicks in and they try to tear you down.

But all of that just makes me more determined. It’s taught me to see being a woman in

metal not as a weakness, but as a strength. I bring a different perspective and emotional

depth, and that difference is powerful. My experiences have taught me resilience and

given me the drive to keep pushing boundaries. And if I can inspire even one more girl to pick up a mic and scream her truth, then it’s all worth it. And a huge shoutout to all the women who are on stage now and those who came before us.

They paved the path for women to be in the rock and metal industry, and I’m so

grateful. I know how hard it was for them, and they have my utmost respect.

Amit Ahuja: Who are the artists or songs that have left a lasting mark on you? How did they shape the way you write, perform, or think about music? Are there elements of their artistry—perhaps a lyrical honesty, a sound, or a stage presence—that you consciously or even subconsciously carry into your own work?

Aleksandra Marshaniia: Honestly, I could list so many songs, but here are the ones that hit me the hardest. “In the End” by Linkin Park was a total game-changer for me. System of a Down’s “Toxicity” and “Spiders” taught me that music could be chaotic and meaningful at the same time. Rage Against the Machine and Disturbed definitely fueled my love for raw energy. Guano Apes’ “Open Your Eyes” opened me up to that powerful alt-rock attitude.

And yeah, even Whitney Houston’s “I Will Always Love You” showed me whatpure, emotional vocal delivery can do. “Highway to Hell” by AC/DC is just that timeless rock anthem that never gets old. And I can’t forget “Break Stuff” by Limp Bizkit. That song about pure, explosive anger was like a permission slip to let it all out. It taught me that it’s okay to embrace the rage and turn it into something cathartic.

All of these songs shaped how I write and perform. They taught me to be honest, to

be intense, and to never be afraid of blending vulnerability with power.

Amit Ahuja: Can you remember the first time you realized you had a voice worth

sharing? Was there a particular moment—maybe performing for

family, singing along to a favorite song, or hearing your own voice

recorded—that made you think, “This is something I want to pursue”?

Aleksandra Marshaniia: Honestly, I don’t remember the exact moment when I thought, “Oh, my voice is special, I should share it.” It wasn’t like that for me. It was more like a need — almost a physical thirst. I didn’t sing because I thought I was good at it; I sang because I had to. For a long time, my mom told me I didn’t have a musical ear, or rhythm, or even a good voice. I was constantly told I wasn’t talented enough to sing at all. So I grewup feeling ashamed of how I sounded. My mom loved to criticize — she’d bully me for singing when I was a kid, and I carried that insecurity for years.

It honestly took me decades of performing to realize that my voice was powerful —

not because it was perfect, but because it was real. It carries emotion, pain, and

truth. And somewhere along the way, I stopped chasing the idea of being “good”

and just started being me. Singing, for me, feels like breathing. The way your body knows it needs water to survive — that’s what music feels like to me. It’s not a choice; it’s who I am.

Amit Ahuja: Who were the vocalists that shaped your sound growing up? Were

you formally trained, or did you find your voice more organically

through trial, emotion, and experience? How have those influences

evolved as your style matured?

Aleksandra Marshaniia: One of my biggest inspirations growing up was Sandra Nasić, the German singer from Guano Apes. I absolutely loved her raspy voice — it had this raw power and emotion that I connected with instantly. I saw a lot of myself in her, from the energy to the tone, even down to the way she carried herself on stage. She was the first artist who made me think, “Yeah, I can do that too.”

I started working with vocal coaches when I was about 14, but none of them taught

extreme vocals — it just wasn’t common back then. So I had to figure it out on my

own. I spent years experimenting, training my voice through trial and error. I’d

literally go out into an open field to scream until I lost my voice, or sometimes I’d

practice in the bathtub just to muffle the sound. It was chaotic, but it was my way

of learning.

Over time, I figured out how to scream properly without damaging my voice, and

it became a huge part of my identity as a vocalist. I’d say my voice evolved more

from emotion and persistence than from traditional training. It’s raw, imperfect,

and honest — and that’s exactly how I like it.

Amit Ahuja: Every singer eventually discovers the qualities that make their voice

distinct. How did you come to understand your own vocal identity—

your tone, phrasing, or emotional range? Were there moments of

insecurity or experimentation before you found what felt authentic?

Aleksandra Marshaniia: I think my vocal identity is still evolving — but I’m closer to it than ever before. Over time, I started noticing certain tones and textures that come naturally to me — sounds that don’t feel forced, they just happen. Those moments are usually when

I’m most emotionally connected, when I stop thinking and just let instinct take over.

That’s how I started understanding what feels authentic for me — when my voice

feels like an extension of what I’m feeling, not something I’m trying to control. But

I’ll be honest — I still struggle to hear myself objectively. I think that’s something

most artists deal with. We’re always chasing what we feel rather than what we

sound like. It’s been a long process of experimentation and insecurity, but every performance brings me a little closer to my true sound. I’m not trying to be perfect anymore — I’m trying to be real.11.Let’s talk about your creative process and the inspiration behind your music.

Amit Ahuja: Where do your songs usually begin — is it with a personal experience, an emotion you’re processing, a story you’ve heard, or a broader theme you want to explore? How do you take that first spark of inspiration and shape it into a fully realized song? Do you have a specific routine or environment that helps your ideas flow, or have

you developed a certain rhythm with your bandmates over time when

it comes to writing and refining your music?

Aleksandra Marshaniia: I usually write lyric ideas in my phone whenever inspiration hits or when I’m going through something emotionally intense. Most of my songs come from trauma or lived experiences, so the memories are very vivid — sometimes painfully so. Writing helps me process them.

The music usually comes separately, and later I start shaping and tailoring the

lyrics to fit the mood and structure of the song. I love collaborating with co-

writers, because it brings in new perspectives and helps me see my emotions from

different angles. But sometimes I write the entire song or all the lyrics myself.

Amit Ahuja: Building on that, could you share the stories and meanings behind

some of your standout tracks like Crissis, Bad Manners, Bounce, and Yesgirl? What inspired these particular songs, and what feelings or messages were you hoping to convey through them? Do any of themhold a special personal significance — maybe marking an important moment in your creative journey or reflecting a side of you that fans might not have seen before?

Aleksandra Marshaniia: “Crisis” came from a place of deep exhaustion and anger at the world — both personal and social. It’s about survival, injustice, and the feeling of standing in chaos yet refusing to break. I wrote it at a time when everything felt unstable, but music was the only way to process it.

“Bad Manners” was me reclaiming power. It’s about rejecting the pressure to be “polite” or “nice” when people cross your boundaries. It’s loud, sarcastic, and a little unhinged — basically my middle finger to the idea that women have to stay quiet to be respected.

“Yesgirl” hits the most personal side. It’s about people-pleasing, the tendency to say “yes” even when it hurts you, and finally learning to say “no” and mean it. That one marks a turning pointfor me — both creatively and personally. It’s me realizing I don’t need to shrink to fit someone else’s comfort. Together, these songs trace the journey from trauma to self-ownership — each one revealing a side of me that had to fight to exist.

Amit Ahuja: Performing live can be both electric and deeply intimate — an

experience that connects you to your audience in a powerful way. What are some of your favorite songs to perform on stage, and what makes those moments so special for you? Is it the crowd’s energy, the emotional connection you feel through the lyrics, or perhaps the technical challenge that keeps you creatively sharp? Can you describe what it’s like when everything aligns — when the band is in sync, the energy is high, and you hit that perfect moment where the music seems to take on a life of its own? And looking back, are there any particular venues or shows that stand out to you — either as

some of your best performances or maybe the ones that taught you

the most when things didn’t go as planned?

Aleksandra Marshaniia: I absolutely love performing “Crisis” and “Barbie Girl” live. They’re both incredibly powerful songs that suit my vocals really well. I feel the deepest

connection with the audience during these two — everything just works together

magically.

The most beautiful moments on stage are when you’re completely locked in with

every single person in the room. Time stops. The sound travels through your whole

body. You know what they feel, and they feel what you do. It’s like a neural hive —

some kind of magic connection, and it’s the most beautiful thing I’ve ever

experienced.

Amit Ahuja: Every creative journey has its share of rejection and struggle. What

advice would you give to artists who are facing those tough moments? How have you personally turned disappointment or frustration into resilience or creative growth? Can you share a story from your own path that illustrates that transformation?

Aleksandra Marshaniia: If you’re not completely obsessed with music — run while you still can. 😉 It’s the most broke profession I’ve ever had. But the truth is, I don’t feel whole without it, and nothing else gives me that kind of satisfaction. So yeah… I’m stuck with it. And if you feel the same — you better make it work, bitch. 🔥

Amit Ahuja: As you look ahead, what excites you most about what’s next—whether it’s new music, touring, creative collaborations, or personalmilestones? When you create music, does it feel like release, self- discovery, confrontation, or something else entirely? Ultimately, what do you hope listeners take away from your songs after they’ve heard them?

Aleksandra Marshaniia: What excites me most about what’s ahead is that I finally get to be who I truly am — both as a person and as an artist. For a long time, I felt like I was hiding behind versions of myself that other people wanted to see. Now, I’m finally being true to myself, and that feels incredibly empowering.

I can’t wait to connect with more people through my shows and my music — to feel

what they feel, and to share what I’m experiencing in real time. It’s hard to explain,

but anyone who’s ever been to a live show knows that energy — that moment when

everyone in the room feels the same heartbeat. That’s what I live for.

Amit Ahuja: When you create music, does it feel more like a form of release, a

journey of self-discovery, or a confrontation with something deeper

inside you? Or a combination of all three?

Aleksandra Marshaniia: It is definitely form of release.

Amit Ahuja: Is there a message you hope fans walk away with after listening to

your music, or do you prefer to leave it open to interpretation?

Aleksandra Marshaniia: Yes — absolutely. I want people to know they’re not alone. No matter what they’ve been through, they belong somewhere, and they matter. That’s what my music is about — creating a space where people who feel like outsiders can finally feel seen and understood.

I also want my fans to know that they’re special, and that they should always chase

their dreams, no matter how unrealistic or impossible they seem. Don’t ever agree

to live small or let anyone convince you that you’re “too much.”If my songs can make someone feel stronger, or remind them that pain can turn into

power — that’s everything I ever hoped for.

Amit Ahuja: Who are three people who have profoundly shaped your life—

whether personally, professionally, or artistically? What impact did

they have on your outlook or your creative journey, and how do their

lessons continue to resonate with you today?

Aleksandra Marshaniia: My haters? My parents — and the people who were never happy for my success. They’ve caused me pain, but that pain turned into my art. That’s where my inspiration comes from.

Should I be grateful? Yes — but only to myself. They’ve done nothing good for me,

yet I still found a way to rise from it.

Amit Ahuja: Outside of music, what kinds of stories or art forms inspire you? Are

there films, books, series, or podcasts that really speak to your creative side? What is it about those mediums—the storytelling, the emotional depth, the craft—that captures your imagination and perhaps influences how you approach your own art?

Aleksandra Marshaniia: Outside of music, I’m really inspired by impressionist art, especially the work of Claude Monet. There’s something magical about the way impressionism captures emotion and light.

I also love to draw when I need to clear my head. I love listening to piano, cello,

and instrumental electric guitar music. It calms me down. I don’t really watch TV, and I rarely read books, but when I do, it’s usually sci-fi. It is just the way to distract myself from reality.

Amit Ahuja: Many artists talk about the link between creativity and mental health.

Can you share any personal experiences with navigating mental health challenges, whether within or outside of your musical journey? What coping strategies, tools, or support systems have been most meaningful for you? What would you tell others, especially young artists, who are learning to balance their creativity with their well-

being?

Aleksandra Marshaniia: Absolutely. Musicians are often paid so little, yet music and art are what keep humanity sane. Without art, I think we’d lose our ability to feel, to connect — maybe even to exist. It’s kind of ironic, isn’t it?

For me, music is my escape and my way to heal. If it weren’t for music, I honestly

don’t think I’d be here today. It’s where I feel seen, where I can express things that

words can’t fully describe.

Through it, I’ve connected with so many like-minded people, and that connection

makes me feel less alone. Music is my self-regulation, my coping mechanism, and a

huge part of my identity. It’s not just what I do — it’s who I am.

Amit Ahuja: As we wrap up, what final thoughts or reflections would you like to

leave with your fans—and with anyone out there chasing a dream? Is

there a particular message, philosophy, or truth that feels especially

important to share right now?

Aleksandra Marshaniia: Believe in yourself — even when no one else does. Be smart, stay grounded, and always check in with your moral compass. It’s easy to get lost chasing success or validation, but the truth is, none of that matters if you lose yourself along the way.

Stay true to who you are, trust your instincts, and never stop creating. That’s where

the real magic happens.

Amit Ahuja: Thank You So Much much to Aleksandra Marshaniia for sharing her story with us today.

Photo credit: @cnnemo1983

We invite you to visit Aleksandra Marshaniia's Linktree page below to support her and explore her music.

https://linktr.ee/alexsandram?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQMMjU2MjgxMDQwNTU4AAGnVkYiLh63uaCrDloMW1dFLNKqqSBXB995RikZBwjSR4oXDUvKnf9CQcxVCAI_aem_1Ace1QxASwrjsbOd3h6glA

*** All photo credits attributed to @cnnemo1983, unless otherwise specified.***