Maria Raquel Thomas:

A Multifaceted Musician, Model and Humanitarian

Maria Raquel Thomas, a remarkable 17-year-old Musician, Makeup Brand Owner, Model, and Humanitarian, is leaving an indelible mark on the Z Generation with her outstanding achievements.

Musician: Download epk Here. 

Maria Raquel is a musical prodigy whose soul resonates with the timeless melodies of her ancestry. Born into a lineage of legendary musicians, music is more than just a passion for her – it's a legacy that courses through her veins like an eternal rhythm. Her musical roots stretch back to her great-grandmother, the incomparable Shirley Cartman, known as Sheila Carr on stage. Sheila was a renowned violin virtuoso who also excelled at the keyboard, alto sax, and drums. She not only left a remarkable musical legacy but also mentored and taught music to Tito Jackson of the Jackson 5 during their early days in Gary, Indiana, recognizing their exceptional talents and propelling them forward in their careers.

Maria Raquel's grandmother, Nita Riley, emerged as a maestro, effortlessly mastering the piano, drums, and keyboard. Her band, the Sweethearts of Soul, ignited stages with their soulful performances, even opening for the incomparable Stevie Wonder. Continuing the rich family heritage, Maria Raquel’s mother, Raquel Riley Thomas, proved to be an accomplished violinist and drummer during her teenage years. Maria Raquel’s father, Ron Thomas, played the drums in church at a young age, adding another layer of brilliance to the family tapestry.

Now, Maria Raquel stands as a resplendent, independent artist, ready to make her own mark on the world with her unique sound. Her new album, "1 AM,” unveils the depth of her musical prowess. A mesmerizing blend of pop grit vocals, the song takes listeners on an emotional journey of heartbreak and self-discovery. Maria Raquel’s raspy ethereal vocals are a defining feature of her music.

Maria Raquel's commitment to creating music for all audiences is evident in her new single, "Plot Twist," which explores themes of empowerment and self-discovery. This girl power anthem celebrates independence and the emotional journey of a young woman breaking free after a challenging relationship. Maria Raquel's single, "Plot Twist," garnered significant attention, amassing 40,000 views in the first hours of its release. The accompanying music video for "Plot Twist" further solidified Maria Raquel's appeal, achieving 13,000 views in the second hour of its release.

"Bull's-Eye," the first of the two new singles, delves into Maria Raquel's personal struggle with obsessive thoughts and feelings towards someone who may not reciprocate those feelings. Despite her desire to move on, Maria Raquel finds herself continuously drawn back into this obsessive cycle, likening the experience to being hit hard by a bull's-eye. The song's lyrics reflect a mix of frustration, longing, and a quest for closure and freedom from this tumultuous mental battle.

In contrast, "I'm Better" serves as an empowering anthem where Maria Raquel confidently asserts her superiority and determination to prove herself as the best without hesitation. With bold lyrics and an unapologetic attitude, Maria Raquel challenges others to test her, only to regret it later. The song showcases Maria Raquel's unwavering self-assurance and her resolve to claim her rightful place at the top of the music scene.

Maria Raquel's music is inspired by artists like Miley Cyrus, Dua Lipa, with dance moves reminiscent of Britney Spears and Janet Jackson. It's noteworthy that Maria Raquel is not only a talented vocalist but also a skilled songwriter, composer, and arranger, actively contributing to the creation of her own music.

Model:

Maria's inspiring journey has captured the attention of media outlets worldwide. She has appeared on prominent networks like ABC, FOX, and CBS, sharing her story with a wider audience. Her remarkable accomplishments have led to her gracing the covers of 14 magazines and being featured in numerous interviews.

Humanitarian:

Driven by a genuine desire to make a positive difference, Maria Raquel is actively involved in philanthropy. She generously donates a portion of her cosmetic brand's earnings to children's charities, making a tangible impact on the lives of those in need. In addition, Maria holds the esteemed position of the first-ever National Youth Ambassador for StandUp for Kids, an organization committed to ending youth homelessness. Through virtual run/walk race fundraisers, she has played a vital role in raising over $150,000.

Awards:

Maria Raquel's exceptional leadership skills and dedication to excellence have earned her numerous accolades and recognitions. She was honored as a National "Girl of Merit" in 2018 and 2019 and was recognized as a Junior National Young Leader in the same year. A member of esteemed organizations such as the Junior Honor Society, the National Society of High School Scholars, and the Beta Club, Maria's commitment to making a social impact also led to her nomination for Forbes 30 Under 30 in the Social Impact category. Her remarkable volunteer work earned her the prestigious 2021 Presidential Volunteer Silver Medal.

Fun Fact:

One more thing…. Maria Raquel finds joy in her personal pursuits, such as building robots and roller coasters, showcasing her passion for engineering and innovation. At the remarkable age of 14, she accomplished an extraordinary feat by constructing a fully functional roller coaster in her own backyard. With aspirations of becoming an aerospace engineer, Maria Raquel has been accepted into Arizona State University to major in Aeronautical Engineering, Fall 2024. 

Contact

Contact: L. Nelson | PR coordinator | An Officer and Gentlewoman, LLC | pr@aoagwllc.com