Girl in Red, the professional alias of Marie Ulven Ringheim, has emerged as a significant voice in the indie pop music scene. As a Norwegian singer-songwriter, Marie has carved a unique niche for herself with her distinctive style, often termed ‘bedroom pop’. This genre resonates strongly with themes of romance and mental health, striking a chord with a broad audience. Her single ‘I Wanna Be Your Girlfriend’ exemplifies her appeal, amassing over 150 million streams online and securing the No. 9 spot on The New York Times' list of ‘The 68 Best Songs of 2018’. Since her debut in 2018, Ulven has released two extended plays from her bedroom studio, a testament to her DIY ethos, and has attracted over 7 million monthly listeners on Spotify. This impressive achievement highlights her growing influence and reach in the music industry.
Marie’s impact extends beyond her musical talents, as she has been recognised as a ‘queer icon’ by Paper magazine and lauded as a ‘phenomenon’ by The New York Times. Her music, characterised by its authenticity and relatability, has garnered her widespread acclaim and a significant following. As of October 2019, her music has amassed over 150 million streams, a testament to her resonance with listeners worldwide. Marie’s tour history is equally impressive, having embarked on two North American and two European tours since 2019. She has also graced the stages of prestigious festivals such as Lowlands, Rock en Seine, and Øyafestivalen. Her rising prominence was recognised by NME when they named her ‘one of the most hyped acts at The Great Escape’ in 2019, further solidifying her status in the music world.
Marie Ulven Ringheim's journey as Girl In Red began from her early interests in music. She started creating music at a young age in Norway, laying the groundwork for her future success. Before adopting her stage name, Marie released music in her home country, showcasing her early potential. Her passion for music led her to the SoundCloud platform, where she posted under the user name Lydia X. This initial exposure to SoundCloud played a crucial role in her early recognition and growth. Her debut EP, ‘Chapter 1’, released in 2018, marked a significant milestone in her career, setting the stage for her subsequent rise to fame.
Girl in Red's story is one of authentic expression and connection with her audience. Her sensitive and insightful lyrics, especially appealing to young teenagers, have created a strong bond between her and her listeners. This connection is evident in her substantial online following and streaming success. Marie’s journey from a young musician in Norway to an internationally recognised artist under the name Girl In Red is a testament to her talent, determination, and unique approach to music-making. Her ability to create relatable, heartfelt music from the comfort of her bedroom studio has not only defined her as an artist but has also inspired a generation of young music enthusiasts worldwide.
