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1. What's been the most defining moment in your careers so far? Mark (M): One of the most defining mo- ments in my career came when my song writing started reaching people beyond the stage and connecting with listeners on a deeper level. As a singer-songwriter, performing is important, but the real valida- tion comes when a song written in a quiet, personal moment becomes meaningful to someone else. Receiving messages from listeners who relate to the stories in my songs has been incredibly rewarding. Debbie (D): After more than three decades in music I've had many highlights. Very early in my career I debuted in the Maltese musical Erwieh and shortly after I was selected as one of the backing vocalists for Malta's Eurovision entry in 1993. How- ever, the most defining moment for me was representing Malta as a soloist in the Eurovision Song Contest in 1997. It was an unforgettable experience, especially as it was the last edition with a live orchestra. 2. As creatives, how do you navigate the world and speed of social media? M: Social media has completely changed the music industry. It gives artists the op- portunity to connect directly with listeners in a way that wasn't possible before. I enjoy using these platforms to share music, mo- ments from the studio, acoustic sessions, or live performances. At the same time, I try to use social media intentionally rather than letting it dictate the creative process. D: Being in mid-life makes you more eager to keep up with younger genera- tions, so I try my best to stay present on social media, especially when it comes to my career. I prefer to keep most of my personal life private. When technology becomes confusing, my daughter Nicole usually comes to the rescue. 3. Do you consider artificial intelligence a threat to your careers, or an opportunity? M: I see artificial intelligence as another development in the evolution of the music industry. We have already moved from analogue recording to digital production and streaming platforms. AI is simply the next step. However, song writing remains a deeply human process built on emotions, experiences and storytelling. D: AI can feel a little scary at times, es- pecially because people may not always distinguish between artificial content and reality. At the same time, it can be helpful when developing ideas or shaping projects. It's something I'm still learning about. 4. How do you stay motivated and in- spired, especially during tough times? M: Creativity isn't always a smooth path. Sometimes writing flows easily, while other times inspiration feels distant. During those moments I remind myself that creativity requires persistence. Inspiration can come from everyday life, from listening to other songwriters, or even from a simple sound or melody. D: I consider myself a positive person. Mu- sic and the arts have always helped me get through difficult moments. Collab- orations and new projects keep me motivated, while simple things like reading, swimming or walking in the countryside help recharge my creativity. 5. How do you balance your creative instincts with expectations? M: For me, balance comes from staying true to the emotion behind the music while remaining open to collaboration. Working with other musicians often brings new perspectives that help shape a song in unexpected ways. D: It's important not to remain stuck in one style. Expanding your circle of collabo- rators helps keep creativity fresh while still connecting with modern audiences. Continuous vocal training is also essential for any singer. 6. How do you approach a new project? M: When starting a new project, I usually begin with an idea for a melody, lyric or concept and allow it to grow naturally. I try not to force the process because songs often develop in their own way. D: I approach new projects with enthusi- asm and careful planning. Over the years I've learned that maintaining balance and wellbeing is essential to staying creative and focused. 7. Can you tell us about future projects? M: At the moment one of the main focuses is our song Jekk Forsi for Muzika Muzika. Projects like this are exciting because they bring together song writing, performance and collaboration. D: Muzika Muzika and the release of Jekk Forsi with Mark Spiteri Lucas is the current priority. After that I'm working on a live project planned for May, and I'm sure more music projects will follow. maltatoday | SUNDAY • 15 MARCH 2026 Music KorMalta celebrates two sold-out concerts including Women's Day charity performance ARTS • TV • WHAT'S ON BY LAURA CALLEJA suggestions by email lcalleja@mediatoday.com.mt The Q & A MARK SPITERI LUCAS & DEBBIE SCERRI 7 questions for... Extra round What does music mean to you on a personal level? Is it a form of expres- sion, therapy, or something else? M: For me, music has always been a natural form of expression. It's the space where emotions, thoughts, and experiences can take shape through melodies and lyrics. Song writing often feels like a moment of reflec- tion, but it also becomes a way of connecting with others. When a song resonates with someone else, that's when you realise music goes beyond the personal and becomes something shared. D: As I said earlier about music, it has always saved me from my very tough moments, such as the grief of losing a parent to the joy of a family celebra- tion, therefore till my last breath I hope that God gives me the strength to keep on doing music. When two seasoned artists share the stage, the result is a blend of experience and musical chemistry. Composer and producer Mark Spiteri Lucas joins forces with Eurovision 1997 representative Debbie Scerri in a duet that brings together decades of musical experience. After presenting songs such as Meravilja and Kanvas, the pair now collaborate once again with their latest track, Jekk Forsi during this year's Mużika Mużika between the 19 and 21 March 2026 Art Josette Fenech: The convergence of art and empowerment in Where Hands Meet MaltaToday is supported by Arts Council Malta PAGE 2 PAGE 3 Photo: Ines Bahr Photo: Lorella Castillo