The DMV Daily Interviews: MAR.

The DMV Daily had the pleasure of speaking with MAR. He is a rap artist from Ohio, now based in Washington, D.C. Mar gets his inspiration from classical Rap, R&B, and Pop sounds from the 90s and 2000s to create a signature sound that is current and fresh, with a nostalgic feel and a distinct point of view. Learn more about MAR. as we talking music and his creative process.

Q: Who inspired you to make music?

MAR.: So many Icons of the past and present. I’d say my most current inspirations were Lizzo and Roddy Rich.

Q: How would you describe the music that you typically create?

MAR.: It’s hip hop with a top-shelf splash of R&B and/or Pop. I love creating new sounds and channeling different genres.

Q: Can you tell us about your latest project “Begin” and talk about the inspiration and meaning behind it?

MAR.: “BEGIN” is my most recent project. It symbolizes a much-needed start, a call to action, and serves as an inspiration to follow your dreams.

Q: What is your creative process like?

MAR.: The process can be so random, but it usually starts with beat/melody creation or selection. Then I like to freestyle and write the chorus, and build the rest of the song from there.

Q: Tell us about the first song you have ever written?

MAR.: I was in the 9th Grade. That’s all you need to know LOL.

Q: Who would you most like to collaborate with?

MAR.: There are so many talented artists out. I’d love to work with Trapcry from Richmond, VA, and probably Niko Khale who I think is from the DC area.

Q: What is one message you would give to your fans?

MAR.: “What I want the world to know about MAR. is when you hear MAR. spit, MAR. wrote it”

Q: What would you be doing right now, if it wasn’t for your music career?

MAR.: My clothing line, or Real Estate.

Q: Where have you performed?

MAR.: I haven’t performed anywhere yet, but I will this summer. Stay tuned!

Q: Which famous musician(s) do you admire?

MAR.: Janet Jackson, Nas, Nicki Minaj, Wayne, Foxy Brown, Busta Rhymes, Kendrick Lamar, Brandy, Beyonce, Gaga, 2 Chainz, so many more.

Q: What challenges have you encountered since being a music artist and how have you overcome them?

MAR.: Being recognized for your work instead of your image can be discouraging, especially for Queer artists. I find that genuinely putting your work and faith into something that is meaningful to you ultimately brings fulfillment.

Q: What is the best advice you’ve been given?

MAR.: Make music you want to listen to. Appreciate it when others love it too.

Q: What’s next for you?

MAR.: More music videos! I also released a song for my birthday, it’s called “Been There Done That” featuring Veronicabarz (from DC) – go cop that!

Follow Mar on Twitter & Instagram @lyricalmar and on Facebook

Take a listen to MAR.’s latest project “Begin” and his new single “Been There Done That” featuring Veronicabarz.