Following years of writing, teaching, and performing music rooted in connection and self-reflection, London, Ontario–based singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Marty Kolls shares “Drive,” a hypnotic, consistent pop single that captures the quiet momentum of moving forward through uncertainty. Optimistic yet grounded, the track reflects on awareness, contemplation, and the importance of continuing on even when the road ahead isn’t fully visible.

Inspired by both time spent behind the wheel and her work as a songwriting instructor, “Drive” grew out of a lesson Marty taught her students. Beginning with a steady, driving rhythm, the song came together as she paired it with lyrics written during another class exercise. 

“I started with the driving rhythm, and it fit well with lyrics I had already written,” she explains. “I put myself to the test of writing all of the assignments along with my students. It was a great source of inspiration to be presenting for them at the same time as they presented to me.”

//What can you share with readers about your new project?

This song was inspired by a lesson I taught my songwriting students at the University of Western Ontario. We were working on creating musical accompaniments for themes in a song, so the repetitive bass represents the movement of the car driving.

How does this release compare with your other projects you had in the past?

This project features my keyboard playing in contrast to playing the piano, which is my first instrument.  I’ve been enjoying writing music with the keyboard sounds these days.

What about this single makes you most proud?

I’m proud of the intention behind writing this song, in that it represents a lot of what I talk about with my students to ‘just keep driving’ because finding the motivation can be hard, but you do just have to keep going.

Was there a specific goal you were trying to accomplish with this release?

I was very excited to put together a video with this release.  I wanted them to compliment each other, and I was excited to work with young Dexter Greene in his early career as a filmmaker.

What inspires you to create music? What motivates you to keep going?

Sometimes I’m inspired, and at other times I just have to practice.  Writing is a practice.  Getting out a piece of paper or your phone to write something when it comes to mind is also a practice. If you want to get better, you have to practice.

If you could collaborate with anyone – dead or alive, famous or unknown – who would it be and why? If it’s an indie/DIY artist, please include a link so readers can check them out.

I think it would be fun to collaborate with an artist from another genre, such as Shad (@shadkmusic) or even someone with similar styles but far more experience than me like Sufjan Stevens.

What was the last song you listened to? Favorite all-time bands/artists?

I was recently enjoying the song Bees by Caribou (@cariboumusic) and also love listening to  the Deep Stays Down by Larkin Poe (@larkinpoe).

Where is the best place to find you and stay connected?

I love being outside.  If I can’t be outside, sitting by a window and watching lots of action out a window.

I really appreciate your time. Is there anything you’d like to share before we sign off?

Thanks for listening. And just keep driving.