María Zardoya and The Marías Navigate Breakup, Solo Projects, and Latin Music's Rise

María Zardoya, frontwoman of the indie band The Marías, reflects on the group's unexpected ascent, fueled by digital platforms and a 2024 Grammy nomination for Best New Artist. The band formed in Los Angeles in 2015 after Zardoya met drummer Josh Conway at the Kibitz Room in Canter's Deli; guitarist Jesse Perlman and keyboardist Edward James joined soon after. Their 2024 album 'Submarine' featured the hit 'No One Noticed,' which garnered over a billion Spotify streams after a 2020 Instagram voice note evolved into a viral sensation. Zardoya, who writes bilingual lyrics drawing from her Puerto Rican heritage and upbringing in Georgia, collaborated with Bad Bunny on his 2022 album 'Un Verano Sin Ti,' highlighting Latin music's growth as the U.S.'s fastest-growing genre in 2024. Following her breakup with Conway, the band underwent label-sponsored therapy, and Zardoya released a solo album, 'Melt,' in 2025 under the name Not for Radio. The Marías are now developing a third record, emphasizing honest music that resonates with both new and longtime fans.