Marcus - Not Real (EP) + 10 Questions
Following on from the huge support he received for his previously unveiled singles ‘Redemption’, fast-rising Irish artist Marcus has now released his highly-anticipated new EP ‘Not Real’ alongside the new focus single ‘April’.
His new EP has been born of a variety of influences and inspirations over the years. While growing on a diverse mix of everything from early folk artists to modern day hip-hop, Marcus has developed a sound that is distinctly his and looks to bring his eclectic direction to the forefront on this new collection.
Speaking about the new collection, he said, "This EP has been a long time in the making. It includes some songs that I wrote years ago and some that I wrote over the last couple of months. When I listen to it I can hear my story and it means a lot to me. The last year presented a lot of challenges, there were long periods when I couldn't get into a studio because of lockdowns. Because of this parts of the EP were recorded in my bedroom and parts in really good studios, it's a funny mix. It has always been an ambition of mine to release a project and I'm really proud to finally put one out there. I'm so grateful to everybody who helped make this a reality."
Marcus sat down with Wordplay Magazine to answer our infamous 10 Questions:
1. So tell me, how did it all begin? What sparked your love for music?
When I was a kid my parents bought me a guitar and I fell in love with it. I was exposed to some great songwriters as a child too, like Bob Dylan and David Bowie. I stopped playing in my teens and didn't start again until my early twenties. I didn't realise how much I had missed it until I started playing again. In the interim I began listening to a lot of hip hop. I would say that my early experiences with the guitar and the music my Dad listened to when I was younger sparked my love for music.
2. Who are some artists that influence you and that you want to work with in the future?
I was inspired to get into music by artists like Plan B and Maverick Sabre. They were mixing elements of traditional songwriting with hip hop and the sound was intoxicating to me. I found it difficult to relate to a lot of rock music or singer songwriters at the time but the music these guys were making really resonated with me. My dream collaboration would be with one of the big UK rappers. I love a good rap song with a strong hook and would love to be a part of that.
3. What are some of the problems you have faced making and releasing the music during the corona virus pandemic?
I think the biggest problem I faced was too much idle time. Throughout the lockdowns I had a lot of time to think and probably over thought a lot. This period coincided with the beginning of the EP rollout and I thought of every possible scenario that could go wrong. It was beneficial in a lot of ways because I learned to stop taking these thoughts so seriously. It was also difficult to get into recording studios for a while because of restrictions, but I used this time to write and demo songs at home.
4. How would you describe your sound?
I would describe my sound as unique, honest and raw. Technically I'm not the greatest guitar player or singer but I will give you my heart every time. I love experimenting in the studio and the hallmarks of this EP would be acoustic elements coupled with production often found in hip hop, such as 808s and sub basses. I spend a lot of time writing and rewriting lyrics and try to paint vivid images with them, I think this is a big part of my sound too.
5. What's your proudest moment to date so far as an artist?
My proudest moment to date as an artist is seeing how proud and excited it makes my family and friends. Hearing my debut single Obey on the radio for the first time was a really proud moment too. I was in work at the time but got to listen online when I got home.
6. Do you have any advice for our readers who may be trying to play the mad game of music?
Take your time. I think a lot of artists rush releases and end up putting music out there before they have really developed as a writer. I would also say be kind to yourself, it's common to be insatiable in this game but it's important to remember that this is supposed to be fun. It's easy to fall into the trap of comparing yourself to other artists who might be further along in their journey than you. Take your time and trust the process.
7. Are there any artists on your radar at the moment that we should check out?
Yeah. Check out the Irish scene at the moment, it's in a really healthy place. There are a lot of great singers, bands, rappers and producers out there. Some of my favourites are Niamh Regan, Paro Pablo, Shiv, Gemma Dunleavy, Kojaque, Jah1, the list goes on and on...
8. What albums are on heavy rotation on your Spotify playlist currently?
I'm a big J Cole fan and have been listening to his album The Off Season a lot. It's a real work of art. I was listening to an album by an Irish artist called Strange Boy recently too and thought it was really good. I've been meaning to check out Kanye's new album Donda, I might do that tonight.
9. What do you like to do when you're not making music?
I like to run, workout, meditate, anything that makes me feel happy and healthy. I spend a lot of time listening to music too, I'd rather lie down with a pair of headphones on than watch netflix. I've started spending more time in nature too, there's a mountain near where I live and every now and then I'll just put my shoes on and walk to the top of it.
10. Name three things you can't live without when in the studio?
I'm big on tracksuit bottoms in the studio. I remember wearing jeans in one of my earlier recording sessions and they felt quite uncomfortable. It's important to feel relaxed in the studio and comfortable clothes help that. Phones are great to have in the studio too as you can record ideas on them and type out lyrics. The third I can't live without in the studio is tea because, well I just love tea.