MUSIC FOR YOUR EARS | REVIEW Te Quiero a Ti By Marla Lewis

Marla Lewis’s song Te Quiero a Ti is an enchanting blend of smooth jazz, Latin, and
easy listening genres, marking a notable expansion in her musical repertoire. Known
primarily for her work in children’s music and educational songwriting, Marla’s
transition into smooth jazz is both surprising and seamless, reflecting her versatile talent
and deep musicality.
The song, released in both Spanish and English versions, conveys a rich array of
emotions, showing Marla’s soulful voice which gracefully navigates through the
delicate nuances of bossa nova rhythms. Her vocal delivery is warm and inviting,
perfectly capturing the song’s themes of love and connection. The track’s production is
lush, featuring an intricate arrangement that includes flute, piano, acoustic bass, electric
guitar, and drums. This sophisticated instrumental backdrop provides a serene yet
vibrant canvas that complements Marla’s vocal performance beautifully.
The creation of Te Quiero a Ti is a story of artistic collaboration and cultural exchange.
The song originally debuted on Marla’s album Songbook, with lyrics penned by Dave
Kinnoin. However, Marla always envisioned a Spanish rendition, a dream realised
through her partnership with Melissa Sanley, a multilingual singer-songwriter. Melissa
not only translated the lyrics but also contributed significantly to the song’s final form,
providing vocal coaching and even singing backup. This collaboration imbues the
Spanish version with authenticity and emotional depth, making it resonate on a
universal level.
Musically, Te Quiero a Ti stands out for its effortless fusion of styles. The song’s
arrangement evokes the sophistication of smooth jazz while also embracing the warm,
rhythmic qualities of Latin music. This mix is particularly evident in the use of the flute
and piano, which weave through the song with a light yet expressive touch, adding
layers of melody and harmony. The acoustic bass and drums provide a steady, gentle
groove, anchoring the track and allowing the vocals and other instruments to shine.
Marla’s experience as an educator and a parent is subtly interwoven into her music,
infusing her songs with a nurturing and heartfelt quality. Her background in children’s
music, where she focused on creating engaging and educational content, has endowed
her with a unique ability to convey complex emotions in a relatable way. This skill is
evident in Te Quiero a Ti, where the lyrics, though simple, carry profound emotional
weight, speaking to universal experiences of love and intimacy.
Te Quiero a Ti also highlights Marla’s capacity for reinvention and growth as an artist.
Her previous work, particularly in children’s music, has garnered critical acclaim,
including a feature on the Grammy-winning album ‘All About Bullies… Big and Small.’
This foundation in crafting meaningful, accessible music serves her well in her
transition to more adult-oriented genres. The song exemplifies her ability to bridge
different musical worlds, creating a sound that is both familiar and fresh.

The accompanying music video, crafted by Melissa Sanley, further enhances the song’s
romantic and evocative atmosphere. It visually captures the essence of the music,
adding an additional layer of storytelling that complements Marla’s lyrical themes. The
visuals combine romantic and idyllic scenes, mirroring the song’s mood and enhancing
the listener’s emotional engagement.
Te Quiero a Ti is not just a song but a narrative of Marla’s journey as an artist, educator,
and parent. It embodies her eclectic influences, ranging from jazz legends like Ella
Fitzgerald to the folk and pop sensibilities of artists like The Beatles and Carole King.
These influences are seamlessly integrated into a sound that is uniquely hers, making
her music both timeless and contemporary.
For listeners, Te Quiero a Ti offers a rich listening experience that is both soothing and
stimulating. Its smooth, melodic lines and intricate instrumentation invite repeated
listens, each time revealing new subtleties and depths. Whether experienced in its
English or Spanish version, the song resonates with a universal appeal, celebrating the
joy and vulnerability of love in a way that is both sincere and authentic.
All in all, Te Quiero a Ti is a remarkable track that not only demonstrates Marla
Lewis’s vocal and songwriting talents but also her ability to cross cultural and musical
boundaries. It reflects her artistry and is a promising indicator of the exciting directions
her music may take in the future. Whether you’re a fan of smooth jazz, Latin rhythms,
or simply beautiful music, Te Quiero a Ti is a track that deserves a place on your
playlist.