With the release of her new album, Enough, we caught up pop singer/songwriter Mary-Clair to talk about the record, her influences... and writing love songs to Justin Bieber...
This interview took place December 14, 2025

  Mary-Clair2025

JFH (John DiBiase): Your debut album, Enough, brings together pop sensibilities and deep spiritual conviction in a way that feels intentional and sincere. When did you first get the sense that this specific blend was your lane?

Mary-Clair: I've always loved Christian music. I grew up with it, and it's been an anchor for me in the darkest times. But I also know that the majority of the people my age are also listening to pop music as well. So I knew if I could combine the two, I could reach a bigger audience with the same message.

JFH (John): Tedd T has a long history of shaping big, emotive pop records for faith-based artists (I mean - the legendary Rebecca St. James, for example!) How did you get connected with Tedd?

Mary-Clair: I met Tedd at a studio session MercyMe was having. He approached me and said he had heard that I wanted to do music. I couldn't believe it! He let me play a song I had written for him and the rest is history. Without him, I'm not sure I would be an artist today. I am so grateful.

JFH (John): How do you feel Tedd's influence and touches helped shape your sound?

Mary-Clair: He always reminds me that there's no "right" or "wrong" lyric, or melody, but there are smart ones. We always strive to be poetic and use real instruments. We think there's a lot of fluff in music today and we both have the same vision of keeping our songs real!

JFH (John): You've said you created Enough with young girls in mind, especially those listening to mainstream pop. What do you specifically hope they hear in these songs that they aren't getting elsewhere?

Mary-Clair: I hope they know that they don't have to compromise on their values to enjoy music, and that it's honestly more fun to praise God when jamming out than anything else!

JFH (John): Now that the full album is out in the world, is there a song that listeners have responded to that you didn't necessarily expect?

Mary-Clair: Yes, definitely "Falling." It's gotten so much attention, and I could've never guessed it. I'm so thankful, of course, but it really showed me how people are connecting with these niche ideas I'm writing about.

JFH (John): And - if you had one song you'd want listeners to hear from Enough that you feel best represents you and your sound, what would that be?

Mary-Clair: That's a hard question! It's like picking a favorite kid! I would say they all represent a different part of my heart. From love, depression, praise, fear... they are all so different. But I think "Your Love" shows my sound in a great way!

JFH (John): Your hit single, "Falling," is very acoustic-driven compared to some of your other work. What drew you to that more stripped-back approach for this one?

Mary-Clair: I wanted "Falling" to sound like a love song you would hear at a wedding during the first dance, but the lyrics are directed to the Lord. I wanted to remind people of the safety and romance of the spirit of Christ, and that He truly loves us!

JFH (John): You grew up listening to everyone from Michael Jackson and Queen to DC Talk and the Gaither Vocal Band. That's not exactly a subtle mix. How would you say those influences show up in your songwriting?

Mary-Clair: This question made me laugh! Yes, those are all some of my "hero" artists, and a lot of that has to do with my dad. He showed me such different music at such a young age, and I'm thankful, because I'm able to pull from such a wide range of inspiration when I'm writing. Michael inspires me to be precise and bold... DC Talk to be funky... and Gaither to PRAISE!

JFH (John): You started writing in your journal at a young age. Do any of those early entries still shape what you write about today? And more personally, how has journaling helped you process life over the years?

Mary-Clair: Just the other day, I found an old journal with some songs I had written in middle school. It's cool to look back to see how far I've come as a songwriter, but I would say the topics of what I'm writing about have stayed the same. I will say -- I did find a love song I wrote about Justin Bieber. Maybe that one will make the next record. Haha!

JFH (John): Your music has been described as a place where listeners feel "heard, seen, and appreciated." When in your own life have you most needed music to do that for you?

Mary-Clair: There have been many times in my life where music has saved me. When I have felt most alone, music was the one thing that could reach my heart. So I knew when I started making music that I wanted to write songs that could save people from those same dark moments.

JFH (John): You've said the world needs more love - what does showing love look like for you when the spotlight goes off and the schedule gets exhausting?

Mary-Clair: I would say love can translate to kindness. When I have a busy schedule, and I get discouraged, I remind myself to simply be kind. Funny story -- I actually saw Michael W Smith at the gas station the other day, and didn't get over to him in time to say "hello," but I did see him compliment the man's car that was next to him. That was a reminder to me that everyone needs kindness! Even one of the biggest Christian artists in the world! When the spotlight fades, kindness is a true healer.

JFH (John): Ha, that's awesome! You've been performing everywhere from writers' rounds to national anthems at sporting events. Which of those settings has stretched you the most? (And which is your favorite to do?)

Mary-Clair: Singing my own songs always stretches me the most because it's so personal. I always try to find different ways to sing them so I can reach every audience better. My favorite event I've ever done would have to be singing "Never Be the Same" with Tedashii at a camp! The energy was incredible! And Tedashii guided me on how to enjoy the show but also stay put together. He's a gem.

JFH (John): With this early momentum, are there themes you feel yourself being pulled toward for future songs?

Mary-Clair: Thinking about future music is something I do everyday. It's funny; I heard an artist's hardest album to make is their second album, but I find that hard to believe. My head is already spinning with new songs and ways to improve my voice and music!

JFH (John): If you could choose the ideal next collaboration - in or outside Christian music - who would it be and why?

Mary-Clair: I would love to collaborate with TobyMac. He is such an inspiration to me in music, and in life. I'm thankful to have met him, but to work with him would be legendary!

JFH (John): Lastly - what do you feel God has been teaching you lately?

Mary-Clair: I've been in a season of rebuilding. Lately, the foundations of my life have been shaken. Me and my family have been walking through a hard time, because my parents went through a divorce last year. These past 2 years have had some very high highs and very low lows. I'm figuring out who God is in the midst of both, and how to hold on in everyday life.

Mary-Clair' new album, Enough, is available now from BrickHouse Entertainment