Known for her distinct retro style, bright voice, and quirky sense of humour, Mariya Stokes is a country-soul love child. Named Country Music Alberta's two-time Horizon Female Artist of the Year, she is on the cusp of releasing her debut album. Stokes' music reflects her roots: honest country lyrics seamlessly blended with pop-influenced melodies.
Growing up in Stavely, Alberta, an hour south of Calgary, Stokes spent time sneaking into the local bar on Friday afternoons to sing with the local jam band. Now a seasoned performer, she has opened for Doc Walker, Trixie Mattel, and Jade Eagleson. Her small-town, community-minded values have followed her to the big city: Stokes was an artist representative on the 2022 Canadian Country Music Association Host Committee and a 2020 Artist in Residence at the Women's Centre of Calgary.
Whether moonlighting as a ghost vocalist for the European pop project Hearts On The Run (Universal Music Group Norway) or heading to Austin, TX, with Travel Alberta to represent her home province internationally, Stokes' authenticity, work ethic, and 1970s ‘fits are unmistakable. Stokes is currently top-eight semifinalist in SiriusXM's Top of the Country in partnership with the Canadian Country Music Association in 2024.