Marlena Jarjoura’s musical journey began at a young age, as she started writing her first songs at age eight and performing in the children’s choir in her local church. Born in Memphis and raised in north Mississippi, Marlena grew up inspired by the guitar playing of her maternal grandfather and the music of singer-songwriters Jewel and Ani Difranco. After picking up a guitar at age fourteen, her songs quickly took structure as she began to explore themes of spirituality, love, and self discovery. Through the years she has honed and crafted her talent into a truly original, melodic, and sophisticated sound, earning the respect and praise of her peers. Marlena has performed live at various venues, including the Brainwash Café and Sam’s Place in San Francisco, California, Top Shelf Records in Corinth, Mississippi, Java Cabana in Memphis, Tennessee, and for the Second Annual Oxford Rhythm Revival in Oxford, Mississippi. She is currently pursuing a degree in Special Education at the University of Mississippi, and spends most of her free time composing music and creating art.