What is your name and role within Marwan Maurice Music?
Marwan Maurice.
How did you start?
Well I grew up in a house where music was always being played, so I would say it was a interest I was almost born into. I even wrote my first song at the age of 9. No one heard it of course, but it was definitely something that struck my interest young. Ironically I didn’t get involved in making music until much later in life. As I got older I discovered a interest in poetry where I would write discreetly without anyone knowing. I eventually started citing my poetry with a old guitar my mother bought for me at a yard sale. In need of a outlet from life’s challenges, I then realized that this was an artistic impression that I wanted to share and started playing at whatever “open mics” would have me. Everything else then progressed thereafter.
Where are you based?
Columbus, OH United States of America.
Please give an example of your music writing process?
There’s no set blueprint to my writing process really. Sometimes lyrics will just come to me while I’m thinking about life through my eyes or the eyes of another person. Sometimes I may imagine a certain guitar sound or lick through thinking that I want to hear. Depending on the sound created it can then stimulate a plethora of stories/thoughts that will then generate lyrics. I just never know what’s going to come first because my art comes from the heart, and the heart can be so unpredictable.
What are you working on right now?
I am currently working on a single/visual titled “Come Here” and am hoping to have it released by August 2017. Be sure to stay on the lookout for it. I think it’s a great “feel good” groove right in time for the summer!
What is your gear setup?
If it’s my “One Man Band” set up I have a guitar, a kick drum, a foot tambourine, a harmonica, and a mic for the vocals.
What do you like to do outside of music and does it affect your music?
I love art and I love fitness. So if I’m not working out I’m probably doing something art related such as visiting museums, photography, styling, etc… I also really enjoy traveling. As a Columbus, OH native I’ve lived in and visited several European countries for a 4 to 5 year span, and now travel throughout America whenever I get the chance.
How would you describe your music genre?
I feel that my genre is unique in the sense that there’s a slight mix of a lot involved. I would say it is driven from soul with blues/rock/folk with a intimate but rough appeal. It’s been labeled much more beyond that but I would say soul/blues/rock/folk are the most consistent.
What are your plans for the future?
Right now my plans are to continue to try and extend a mini tour that I’m working on called “The Black Smoke Tour” promoting my EP produce with the help of my friends at Handmade Productions in Nashville, TN. I’m currently in the process of the tour with my next stop in Indianapolis, IN. I am also playing the Fashion Meets Music Festival in Columbus, OH August 19th sharing the stage with greats such as Third Eye Blind, Fetty Wap, and T-Pain.
What are you listening to at the moment?
As this exact moment my Pandora Radio stations go back and forth from Band of Skulls, 2 Chains, Bounty Killer, and Yellawolf.
Who are your top 5 influences and icons?
Bob Marley
Richie Havens
Johnny Cash
John Lee Hooker
Neil Young
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