Wilby, the indie-rock project of songwriter and artist Maria Crawford, returns today with the poignant new single “Experiments”, out now via Hit The North Records. The folk-inspired track explores the guilt and vulnerability of bringing someone along on a messy healing process—not just as a witness, but as an active participant.
Self-reflection cuts deep with Crawford’s beautiful vocal delivery, poetic honesty and soft, stirring guitar lines.
“‘Experiments’ came out of a conversation with my partner,” says Crawford. “When we debunk old patterns and start to rebuild with new ones, there is an uncomfortable period of trial and error. I was incredibly conscious that other people were going to be affected while I tried these new behaviors on. The song was written with my new found bravery, acknowledging the utter vulnerability it takes to have someone see you through the healing journey.”
Featuring a video directed by Crawford and Ryan Hartley, the visuals remain rooted in a simple, natural beauty that reflects the heart of the song.
Shares Crawford: “I had fun leaning into a bit of a country moment. I wanted the video to feel intimate, raw, and honest—something that feels as personal as the song itself.”
“Experiments” follows Wilby’s recent label debut on Hit The North Records, with the attention-grabbing double single “Pleaser” and “Spin”
From the suburbs of Philadelphia, songwriter and performer Maria Crawford has been paving her way in the Nashville independent music scene since 2014. Formerly known as the folk artist Mar, Crawford released her debut EP Translucent Beauty in 2021.
Crawford has been writing songs for over 15 years, using her music to identify and process emotions, find a way to be heard, and foster human connection. Drawing inspiration from artists and bands like Carole King, Patti Smith, The Magnetic Fields, and Death Cab for Cutie, her songs invite listeners to explore both the shared human experience and the power of telling one’s story.
Wilby has seen strong support from Our Culture, KEXP, Wild Honey Pie’s Top 100 songs of 2020, Nashville’s Lightning 100 as DJ Pick of the Week and Atwood Magazine’s Artist to Watch. Wilby’s sophomore EP Happiest Woman was released in early 2023, with a live version of the title track recently released in January 2025.
Wilby will perform live in Nashville on August 14 at the Rooftop Lounge at Bobby Nashville with Broncho, presented by Bobby Nashville and curated by WNXP. Tickets available here.
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