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Marisa D’Amato: Malta’s Queen of Country Music

Writer's picture: Noel MifsudNoel Mifsud

Marisa D’Amato stands as one of the most celebrated country music artists in Malta, often hailed as the “Queen of Country Music” on the Maltese Islands. Her journey from a small town in Zurrieq to international recognition as a singer, radio presenter, and cultural ambassador is an inspiring testament to her passion and dedication.


Born on March 17, Marisa’s musical journey began on home soil, where her vocal talents first gained attention in the Malta Song for Europe Festival in 1996. She participated again in 1998 and 2003, further cementing her presence in the Maltese music scene. During this time, she was also affiliated with the Police Band, showcasing her versatility as a performer.


Her participation extended to other prestigious Maltese events, including the Malta Song Festival (1996 and 1999) and the L-Għanja tal-Poplu Festival (1998, 2001, and 2004). Additionally, Marisa demonstrated her theatrical prowess in renowned musicals such as Jesus Christ Superstar and The Sound of Music, along with a leading role in the Maltese production Jisimni Katarina.


Marisa’s career took a pivotal turn when she embraced country music, spurred by her involvement in the Maltese TV show Rodeo, produced by Eileen Montesin. Her debut country album, Makin’ Believe, marked the beginning of her transition into the genre that would define her career.


She continued to shine with subsequent releases, including Country Heart & Soul and Heartaches & Roses, the latter featuring collaborations with international artists such as J.J. Johns from the Netherlands and Maltese country singer Araldo. Her fourth album, My Kind of Country, showcased her songwriting skills, with three original tracks included.


Marisa’s talents extended beyond Malta’s shores. In September 2000, as an honorary singer for the Country Music Appreciation Society (CMAS), she performed in the U.S., sharing the stage with luminaries like flatpicking champion Steve Kaufmann and Gary Davis, Dolly Parton’s banjo player.


Her career flourished with tours in Australia (2007, 2009) and the UK (2008-2009), performing at leading country music festivals and clubs. In December 2013, she expanded her reach with performances in Canada. Her music videos, filmed in Malta, received widespread exposure on Sky Channel’s The Phil Mack Country International Roadshow, introducing audiences across Europe to Malta’s landscapes and culture.


Beyond singing, Marisa is a dedicated radio and TV presenter. She hosts a daily show on One Radio, one of Malta’s leading stations, and produces and presents the TV program Country Jamboree on One TV. Her efforts have helped bring country music closer to Maltese audiences, while promoting Malta internationally through her work.


Marisa’s accomplishments have not gone unnoticed. She is the only Maltese member of the prestigious Country Music Association (CMA), granting her the right to vote for the CMA Awards held annually in Nashville, Tennessee.


In 2019, she received a significant accolade at the Hot Country Awards in Cavan, Ireland, for her international contributions as a singer, presenter, and producer. This recognition further highlighted her role as a cultural ambassador for Malta, with the Maltese Tourism Authority actively supporting her endeavors.



Marisa D’Amato’s journey from local music festivals to international stages has solidified her legacy as a pioneer of country music in Malta. Her dedication to her craft, coupled with her efforts to promote Maltese culture abroad, has made her a beloved figure both at home and internationally.





Bibliography

  • "Malta in the Eurovision Song Contest 1998." Wikipedia.

  • "Marisa D’Amato." IMDb.

  • "Marisa D’Amato Biography." Last.fm. Link

  • "ONE News - 30 Apr 2019." Coverage of Marisa D’Amato's achievements in Ireland.

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