Grammy nominated creative MarcLo is someone you ought to get familiar with. Having found immense success as a producer and songwriter, he is making a major move as a recording artist coming off the release of his highly anticipated Premonitions EP. He is someone who is blessed with many gifts and is making sure they play out in a sonically pleasing way. I had the pleasure of interviewing MarcLo to discuss his latest album and ways he remains creative during quarantine.
What does it mean to be Black and Gifted?
Roberta Flack said to be Black and gifted is a lovely, precious dream. I feel like I’ve been blessed with the gift of African and American culture deep in my roots. Our unique struggle has bloomed us into overcomers in every sense of the term.
What was the process like for creating your Premonitions EP?
I took my time creating Premonitions with no deadline. I wrote, produced, and performed this project mostly in a room by myself while asking myself one question: “What does it feel and sound like coming out of a difficult and dark time?” I wanted to inspire us all to see it before getting there.
Who are some of your biggest musical influences?
My musical influences include Michael Jackson, Stevie Wonder, Max Martin, Pharrell, Kanye West, Rihanna, and Musiq Soulchild.
When did you know you wanted to have a career in entertainment?
I went to a performing arts based elementary school, so most of my life I have been pretty set on being an entertainer by way of acting or in music.
How have you been able to maintain a high creative energy during the pandemic?
I’ve luckily been able to collaborate with the same core writers and producers I work with over Zoom or FaceTime. This year has been one of the most challenging to create through but I’ve found it one of the most productive at the same time. I was inside most of the time so there wasn’t much else to do but create [laughing].
How do you feel about the current injustice happening at the hands of law enforcement?
This is an issue our country and abroad have faced long before I was born. We’re dealing with a problem that is at the root of this country. In order to resolve it I think we have to change the foundation of how the system works. After all, the system isn’t broken, it just doesn’t work for everyone. Music is healing, but at the same time, we need a big shift in how the legal system works.
What do you hope to be remembered as?
I want to leave a legacy of love—I want people to remember how I made them feel. I want people to remember it’s ok to be different and to be yourself.
Press play below to stream Marclo’s Premonitions EP.
BLACK&GIFTED 