Marsha Bartenetti Revives ‘Throw It Away’: A Soulful Anthem for a New Era
Marsha Bartenetti has long been a name synonymous with vocal authenticity and emotive storytelling. With a voice that is as smooth as silk and an expressive depth that few can rival, she has carved a unique space in the music world, transcending genres and time periods. Now, Marsha is poised to reclaim the spotlight with the re-release of her stunning rendition of Abbey Lincoln’s classic, “Throw It Away,” a single that heralds her upcoming 2025 album. This reimagined version of Lincoln’s anthem is a poignant reminder of the transformative power of music—and Bartenetti’s unparalleled ability to deliver it with grace and resonance.
Marsha Bartenetti’s career is as rich and varied as her vocal range. Beginning in the San Francisco Bay Area in the vibrant music scene of the late ‘60s, she opened for iconic acts like The Youngbloods and performed at legendary venues such as The Troubadour in Los Angeles. This era was a crucible for creativity and experimentation, and Bartenetti thrived within it. Her talent was recognized early on when she won Best Vocalist in the American Songwriter’s Association’s International Contest in 1980, a pivotal moment that showcased her exceptional talent to a global audience. This accolade paved the way for collaborations with Motown greats Ken Hirsch and Ron Miller, legendary songwriters whose credits include hits for Diana Ross, Stevie Wonder, and Celine Dion. Working with these titans of the industry, Bartenetti added her own depth and flair to their compositions, creating music that resonated deeply with audiences.
However, the path of a musician is rarely linear. Despite stepping away from the stage to navigate the complexities of life and the music industry, Bartenetti never truly left the world of performance. She pivoted to recording national jingles for major brands and became a household name as “The Voice America Loves to Hate” in voicemail systems across the country. Her voice became a ubiquitous presence, heard in homes and offices, yet her heart yearned for the stage. This longing culminated in a return to her true passion, resulting in a series of acclaimed albums, including ‘It’s Time’ (2014), ‘Christmas… In the Spirit’ (2015), and ‘Feels Like Love’ (2017). Each project was a testament to her versatility and ability to breathe new life into beloved standards and contemporary favorites alike.
First released in late 2019, Bartenetti’s interpretation of “Throw It Away” faced an unfortunate fate: its debut coincided with the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. As the world shut down, so too did the opportunity for this soulful masterpiece to reach its intended audience. Yet, as the saying goes, great art is timeless, and “Throw It Away” is proof. In this re-release, Bartenetti has ensured that the song not only finds its footing but also resonates more deeply than ever before, reminding listeners of the enduring power of resilience and self-discovery.
Recorded at the iconic Ocean Way Studios in Nashville, the track is a masterclass in emotional depth and musical craftsmanship. Produced alongside Donny Marrow of Disk Eyes Productions, the single features a stellar lineup of musicians, including Kevin Madill on piano, Pat Bergeson on guitar, Brian Allen on bass, and Marcus Finnie on drums. Each artist’s contribution weaves seamlessly into the fabric of the song, creating an arrangement that elevates its reflective lyrics. Bergeson’s haunting guitar work underscores the song’s themes of introspection and liberation, while Bartenetti’s voice imbues every line with raw, heartfelt emotion that lingers long after the final note fades.
The timeless lyrics, penned by Abbey Lincoln, explore universal themes of loss, resilience, and the liberating act of letting go. Lines like “Give your love, live your life / Each and every day” resonate profoundly in today’s world, where the need for connection and authenticity has never been greater. Bartenetti’s rendition transforms the track into a universal anthem for those seeking solace, courage, and hope in the face of life’s uncertainties. Her vocal performance captures the essence of the song, making it both deeply personal and universally relatable.
The re-release of “Throw It Away” serves as a prelude to Bartenetti’s forthcoming album, set for release in 2025. This ambitious project promises a carefully curated collection of reimagined classics from the ‘60s and ‘70s, infused with contemporary arrangements and Bartenetti’s signature emotional depth. Early reviews suggest that the album will be a tour de force, blending nostalgia with innovation to create something truly extraordinary. Fans can anticipate fresh interpretations of timeless standards alongside a few surprises that showcase Bartenetti’s versatility and artistic vision.
As one critic from The Concert Chronicles aptly noted, “Marsha Bartenetti’s voice is smooth, rich, and expressive, making the listener feel every word she sings. Her rendition of ‘Throw It Away’ is a masterclass in vocal artistry, a reminder of why she remains a treasured voice in music.”
Marsha Bartenetti’s journey has been one of perseverance, reinvention, and an unwavering commitment to her craft. Her ability to convey the essence of a lyric, to make it personal yet universal, has won her audiences across decades and genres. Whether performing at renowned venues like Catalina’s or Upstairs at Vitello’s, or recording in world-class studios, Bartenetti brings a level of artistry that is both rare and deeply moving. Her performances are not just concerts; they are experiences, each one a journey into the heart of a song.
A pivotal influence in her career was her collaboration with the legendary vocal coach Judy Davis, whose mentorship shaped Bartenetti into the consummate artist she is today. Davis, known for guiding icons like Frank Sinatra, Barbra Streisand, and Judy Garland, instilled in Bartenetti a profound understanding of the voice as an instrument. Reflecting on this formative relationship, Bartenetti shares, “Judy changed my life. Her mentoring is still with me, and I still, after all these years, do her vocal exercises every day. She opened my eyes and ears to the possibilities of what my voice could achieve.”
For Marsha Bartenetti, the re-release of “Throw It Away” is more than a nod to the past; it is a bold step into the future. With her 2025 album on the horizon, she is set to remind the world of the power of heartfelt, authentic music. This is a moment of rediscovery, not just for her, but for her audience—an opportunity to reconnect with the timeless beauty of music that speaks to the soul.
So, as you press play on “Throw It Away,” prepare to be transported. Let Marsha Bartenetti’s voice guide you through a journey of reflection, healing, and hope. Her music is an invitation to embrace life’s moments, both joyful and bittersweet. And keep your hand wide open—because with Marsha’s music, you can never lose a thing if it belongs to you. As her voice fills the air, it becomes clear that Marsha Bartenetti is not just a singer; she is a storyteller, a guide, and a beacon of light in the world of music.
