TOWER TREE LIVING MAGAZINE ARTICLE
Read Full Article: Tower Tree Living Magazine, Feb. 2026 Edition
Author: Conor Greary
For 24-year-old singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Marisa Fullenkamp, music has never been just a hobby - it has been a lifelong companion, a source of strength, and a calling shaped by deep family roots and a deep faith. Raised in Batesville by her parents, Dan and Maria Fullenkamp, alongside her sisters Amaia and Mylaina, Marisa grew up in a home full of support and laughter, and a whole lot of melody. Even as a toddler humming her way through dinner, something in her spirit was already tuned toward music.
She laughs, looking back on those early days. “Though humming and chewing wasn’t a great dinner show, my parents noticed something in me - a musical persistence.” That persistence blossomed as she danced, performed in children’s theatre, and eventually found her way to guitar and songwriting. By seventh grade, she was already crafting her own songs. At just 14, she played her first set at Lil’ Charlies after a musical mentor, Tim Volz, invited her onstage. “The rest was history,” she says.
By 16, Marisa was performing full solo gigs across the area, captivating audiences with her warm storytelling, powerful vocals, and soulful presence. Her influences - The Eagles, Patsy Cline, Blues Traveler, and more - helped shape a sound that was uniquely rooted in Americana, yet effortlessly appealing across folk, rock, country, and blues.
Lost and Found
Life wasn’t always smooth. Through high school and into young adulthood, Marisa weathered emotional storms that later fueled her writing. As she drew closer to her faith, she found clarity and purpose. “I was lost, then found,” she reflects. That turning point shaped not only her life, but the honesty and vulnerability woven through her lyrics.
While juggling two jobs at the time - Maurices and Amack’s Well Coffeehouse - Marisa worked her way up the ladder, becoming a supervisor before turning 21. Yet she always felt that tug from the stage. “Either continue to work and survive, or pursue music and live,” she remembers. She chose to live.
Her decision paid off. Marisa has since performed at renowned venues such at Indianapolis’ historic Slipper Noodle and has expanded her performances throughout the Midwest. And now, her journey culminates her debut self-titled EP, Marisa, Set for release on February 20, 2026. Created alongside producer Brian DeBruler of Sol Records, the six-track project serves as a nearly autobiographical snapshot of her musical evolution - from tender heartbreak ballads to spirited reflections on life’s ironies, faith, confusion, and joy.
… Each song holds its own soul, she explains, “One line can express multiple sentiments - visuals, thoughts, or emotions - and hit home with various people. That’s the beauty of songwriting… music captures the tones we all face in trials and triumphs. It’s unifying.”
When she isn’t onstage or writing, Marisa finds joy in simple grounding pleasures. She loves biking, journaling, vinyl records, baking and walking the dirt trails at Brums Woods. A proud Young Life leader for 3 years, she dedicated time to mentoring local students through the ups and downs of high school. “There’s no greater pursuit that helping others,” she says, “Being able to remind them that there’s hope around the bend - and that Jesus loves them - brings hope.”
Her sisters, affectionately known as “Ahma” and “Snoops” remain two of the most important people in her life. “They might drive me nuts,” she jokes, “but we’ve shared more jokes, tears, and rambles than I can count.” While growing up, Marisa was active in ballet, swimming, and played in theatre shows for the BAAC and local schools. Amaia played soccer, and Mylaina played volleyball, both of whom were active swimmers.
And then there’s Bruno, her loyal pup who doubles as a cuddle passenger-seat bodyguard and loves car rides almost as much as he loves family time.
Batesville remains the heartbeat of her story. “No matter where I roam, Batesville is always be home,” she says. The smiles, waves, and neighborly kindness are among her favorite parts about living here.
Marisa’s heart, grit, and trust in God have shaped a journey that is only just beginning. With her debut EP now available for pre-order - each copy signed and numbered - she is stepping boldly into her future, grateful for every person cheering her on.
“The project has been such a wild ride,” she says. “It’s really happening, isn’t it?”