Conversations with Marna Michele

Today we’d like to introduce you to Marna Michele.

Hi Marna, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I was born with a disability by the name of Arthrogryposis, a muscle and joint disorder. Growing up I was constantly told by doctors that I wouldn’t exceed to much. I have always been an outgoing happy person, and I’ve also been able to surround myself with amazing friendships. When I was 12 one of my best friends suggested I sign up for the talent show for school. I thought “who would want to see me, a girl in a wheelchair onstage?!” Every girl my age was going to do a dance. I decided to sing one of my favorite songs. “when” by Shania Twain. I got a standing ovation and since then I haven’t stopped chasing that high. I LOVE being on stage and moving somebody by my voice and performance. I decided to start auditioning for shows like American idol, I auditioned every year from age 16-27. I finally made it on my last audition and the last year I qualified. You age out at 28. They might have changed that rule since then, but now I’m 33. I made it to Hollywood week. It was an incredible experience behind the scenes, meeting all the contestants and making friendships. But I got eliminated and now I’ve been chasing that high! I loved being interviewed, filmed, creative and constantly on the go. American Idol is not my only achievement. Ive done many things in between. I’ve performed with the south coast children’s choir and the south coast symphony. I’ve had gigs where I sang for the cast of Full House, and sang the National Anthem for professional Tennis Tournaments, I even had a small residency in Las Vegas back in 2012/2013. In 2024 I was a winner of the Danny Awards, an annual global award show that recognizes musical talents of people with disabilities. I was honored to be flown out to NYC and live out a pop stars dream! Anything singing and I’m there. Since 2017 I have independently put out original music on all streaming platforms. And currently I perform at House of Blues in Anaheim, quite regularly.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Being in a wheelchair is the most obvious struggle. But people are my biggest struggle. No one assumes the gal in the chair can belt her sitting down, heart out. I can. I will say each year it seems like more doors are opening for the disabled community. And that is something I will constantly fight for. We are a talented bunch of humans.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I am a singer/songwriter and entrepreneur. My main goal and career dream is to be a successful recording artist. I have also created my own brand by the name of Crippled is Beautiful. A community for the disabled. A movement where I took a word used negatively and turned it positive. I had a podcast as well but financially that was a struggle. You can still listen to the first season on Spotify! I hope to bring it back one day. I wish I could say I’m solely a creative, although I do have a corporate 9-5 job to help pay for my dreams. I’m mostly known for singing and my advocacy within my disabled community. And that is what I am most proud of. I’m proud of being disabled, my community has its difficulties but each person I know fights for their dreams and goals. We don’t back down. Being an artist is amazing but being an advocate and voice for others is the most rewarding.

How do you think about luck?
I do believe I am a lucky person or blessed. Whichever you believe. I have had amazing support. My friends and family are very supportive of my dreams and goals. Although at times I also feel like I’ve had some unlucky moments. When doors finally opened, something like the pandemic was close behind to shut them. But I’m not complaining. What is meant to be is meant to be and I’ll continue to do the work I have to do to succeed.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marnawheels?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
• Youtube: https://youtube.com/@marmarmovies?si=sahGkuLYSS7_k8-p
• Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@marnawheels?_t=ZP-8ydJ3kjAjl8&_r=1

Image Credits
Bea Photography aka Britini Raffi