Maina Doe — Meet One of Our StAArt Up Fund Winners

Round One of the StAArt Up Fund has officially wrapped, and we’re proud to announce Sydney-based singer Maina Doe as one of our three winners.

Evoking mid-2000’s nostalgia, yet assuredly future-facing, Maina Doe’s unique melody and powerful delivery provide an exciting step forward for R&B music in this part of the world. “I got into music in a really natural way,” she says. “I started out doing backing vocals for years — until I met my manager, who encouraged me to step out as a solo artist.”

That meeting happened while she was working as a waitress. Her manager recognised her from performances at a local jazz club — and not long after, she released her debut single ‘Delusion’, full of smooth, bold energy.

For Maina, music and style go hand in hand. “Music and fashion are part of the same world for me,” she says. With the help of the StAArt Up Fund, Maina is creating custom merch inspired by her debut EP ‘ODIWAMS’ (One Day It Will All Make Sense). The music explores real, personal moments — from light and dreamy to deep and reflective — and her merch is designed to reflect that journey.

“As an independent artist, it means a lot to have a brand like American Apparel® supporting me,” she says. “It helps me connect to my fans and make sure they have something tangible to hold on to.” 

“To any artist keen to join the StAArt Up Fund, I’d say take it as an amazing opportunity,” she says. “Make the most of it, think about what you want to put out there and yeah.. kick ass.”

Round Two of the StAArt Up Fund is now open — apply today for your chance to win $10,000 worth of custom-printed merch.