Olivia Marsh is here to make her mark this year with her sweet, soulful voice, melodic beats, and doll-like appearance. While some may have spotted her in her sister’s vlogs—you know, NJZ’s and ELLE Singapore’s March 2025 cover star, Danielle Marsh—and from her sisters’ appearance on SBS’ My Heart’s Crayon, the 24-year-old Korean-Australian singer has largely kept a low profile. One thing is certain, however—her natural interest in music has been evident from the very beginning.
Born and raised in Newcastle, New South Wales, she pursued a degree in music education with a focus on interactive composition at the University of Melbourne. Her skills and passion led her to contribute to the composition of K-pop tracks such as Kep1er’s Happy Ending, BoA’s Emptiness, Whee In’s Coco Water, and OH MY GIRL’s Sway (You & I). She even recorded the song Lava for the JTBC drama Hide, under the alias ‘Gyuna’.
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Last September, Olivia stepped into the spotlight when Warner Music Korea unveiled its new label, MPLIFY, which focuses on supporting Korean artists on an international scale—with the singer as its first signed artist. She went on to release her debut single, "42"—a warm, dreamy tribute to memories from her childhood. Most recently, Olivia released her debut EP, Meanwhile, which consists of five tracks—including the early 2000s-inspired mid-tempo title track Strategy—encapsulating three years’ worth of songwriting.
In this ELLE Singapore exclusive, Olivia Marsh sits down to discuss "Strategy", her debut EP Meanwhile, the creative process behind it, and what it’s like having a sibling in the same industry.
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Describe yourself using three songs.
My song "42" reflects on memories from my childhood, plus "Take Me Home, Country Roads" by John Denver, as I grew up with his songs. I always feel nostalgic listening to his music because we would always sing his songs around the house, and this is one of his classics. I’d also include NASAYA’s "Patterns", because it’s a song I return to every day, and it never fails to make me smile.
Congratulations on your debut EP, Meanwhile! What inspired the project, and how would you describe the creative process behind it?
The songs are the result of the past three years I’ve spent songwriting with and for other artists. Even when writing for others, I feel like a part of yourself inevitably comes through in your art. These tracks, in particular, are centred around personal stories, events, or memories from my own life.
Do you have a favourite track off Meanwhile?
It’s so hard to choose one track because they all mean something different to me. If I had to, it would have to be "42"—It’s a song that will always have a special place in my heart.
You’ve described Meanwhile as a "collage of different emotions" from the past two years. Could you share a specific moment or experience that influenced one of the tracks?
"Waterworks" is one song that was inspired by a specific day. I remember going through a tough time in a relationship, but holding in all my emotions. One day, it just became too much. I went home and cried through the night. Afterwards, I didn’t feel as bottled up, and the next day, I went straight into the studio and wrote "Waterworks".
What were your friends and family’s reaction to Meanwhile?
My family has been incredibly supportive of my music and throughout the entire process, for which I’m truly grateful.
How does it feel to have a sibling in the same industry as you, and how have you both supported each other, both as family and as artists?
My sister and I support each other a great deal, and working in the same industry allows us to share our experiences and love for music. As someone more experienced in the industry, Danielle also offers fantastic advice on the ins and outs of the business.
What inspired Strategy, and what’s your favourite lyric from the song? Why does it stand out to you?
It is all about the push and pull in a relationship. For this song, I wanted to turn my frustration into something fun and lighthearted. I would have to say my favourite lyric is, “I’m in denial and losing control,” because it’s so much fun to perform and sing that lyric.
“Strategy” has a distinct early 2000’s sound. What’s a song from that era that you wish you had written, and why?
I’m actually a 2000s baby, and I remember my aunt introducing me to all the divas from that time. I’d have to say "Hung Up" by Madonna will always be one of my favourites—I love how it samples one of my favourite songs from ABBA too.
Reflecting on the three years of writing that culminated in this EP, how do you feel you've evolved as an artist and person during this period?
I feel like I’m learning so much every day. I’m still fairly new to this industry and there are a lot of things I don’t quite understand, but I am grateful to be able to grow as a person and an artist through this experience.
Who do you look up to in terms of music and what’s your dream music collaboration?
I have so many artists that I look up to. Some of my favourites are Emotional Oranges, Tame Impala and Vera Blue. It would be such a dream to collaborate with any of these artists.
What’s your beauty routine like?
My daily routine changes slightly depending on the condition of my skin. I make sure all of my make-up is off at the end of the day and I double cleanse with cleansing milk and soap cleanser. I love applying clay masks and layering a cooling sheet mask on top. In addition, I always drink water and hydrate my lips with Lucas Papaw Ointment before bed.
Do you both have any pre-performance rituals?
Absolutely! Before and during a performance, I love to drink coconut water—it’s incredibly hydrating for the voice, and I find it really helps. I also make sure to warm up both my body and voice, and I always keep honey on hand, just in case, as it soothes the throat so well.
When it comes to fashion, what are some of your closet essentials?
Some essentials that I can’t go without include denim skirts, baggy jeans, cropped baby tees, and big hoop earrings.
What’s one piece of advice you’ve received that has stuck with you?
One piece of advice my mum has always given me is not to dwell on the past, but to learn from your mistakes and move forward. She’s been telling me this since I was a child, but I still find it difficult to follow to this day.
If you could give any advice to your younger self, what would it be?
To not be scared to try new things.
What can fans expect from you in the near future?
I’m currently working on new music, which I’m really excited about, and I can’t wait to share it with everyone. I also have plans to meet more fans overseas very soon.
Meanwhile is now on streaming platforms worldwide.
*The interview has been edited and condensed for clarity.