Marcus Porter is a dynamic, up-and-coming hip-hop and R&B artist from Madison, Wisconsin. He began producing music to curate a distinct fusion of indie music, backpack rap, and blues that resonated with his soul. He quickly discovered that his sound also struck a chord with others, inspiring him to use his voice to share inspirational messages with his listeners.
Marcus has performed at renowned venues such as the Lifest Stage, Cap Times Live, and Festival Food Lights The Isthmus, drawing comparisons to Kid Cudi, J. Cole, and Kendrick Lamar. He shares his passion by teaching after-school programs in his music studio, among many other intimate performances. His latest release, 'The Perception,' delivers a fresh take on the traditional hip-hop album.
The opening track of his album, titled "Read The Script," begins with a delicate piano melody. Marcus Porter's rich vocals take center stage as he delivers the lyrics, "I am the one reading the script," implying that he is the protagonist of his own story. This introduces the album's theme of exploring Marcus’ personal experiences and perspective, making "The Perception" an intimate and introspective journey.
The album's third track, "Wave," embraces R&B and soul influences with a captivating horn melody in the intro. Marcus Porter echoes the empowering words, "I write my own stories, I tell my truths, this is my wave, I'm welcoming you."
The song delivers a strong message that will resonate deeply with listeners, emphasizing the importance of personal agency. In a world where external influences can sway us, Marcus reminds listeners that they have the power to forge their path. Rather than being consumed by factors beyond their control, he encourages focusing on what can be controlled and riding the “Wave” of life.
As the album unfolds, Marcus delves into another aspect of his identity; exploring his experiences as a black man. In the track “Coco” with K.I.L.O. aka SkitL’z, he expresses his appreciation for himself with the lyric "Loving the skin that I'm in." However, he also acknowledges that building up his confidence and self-acceptance took time.
Throughout the song, Marcus touches on isolation, being different, and facing discrimination—universal experiences that will resonate with people worldwide. With each track, listeners can connect with Marcus's journey, witnessing his triumph over adversity through discovering his strength and resilience.
The album reaches its conclusion with the track "Legacy." In this introspective song, Porter openly questions the legacy he will leave behind. He prompts listeners to reflect on their lives by asking: What am I leaving behind? How will I be remembered? Will I be remembered at all? This thought-provoking track reminds us to explore our passions and re-evaluate our priorities. It inspires individuals to make conscious choices that align with their values, knowing that the mark they leave on the world has the potential to live on infinitely.
'The Perception' is available now on all streaming platforms.
Welcome to BuzzMusic, Marcus Porter, and congratulations on your latest release, "The Perception." What are the biggest influences that have helped you develop your unique music style?
Listening to many different art and music genres has helped me develop my styles, such as Hip-Hop, R&B, Jazz, painting, and poetry, especially from the Harlem Renaissance. And these things have always played a role in my life, but the more I grow, the deeper I dive into other areas of music and art.
Do you have a favorite of all the "The Perception" tracks?
That is a tough question because I love all the tracks on "The Perception." If I had to pick one, it would be Black Blood, Loving You, or Soup For The Soul. But honestly, they all are my favorites. I love and enjoy my art!
Walk us through your creative process when composing a song from start to finish.
When it comes to creating, most of the chords and melodies were created for this album before I did the drums to it. When it comes to writing, I often think about my past life experiences and try to bring them back to life in my music and keep it relatable. Most of my songs are written while travelling or doing daily things.
Is there a specific place or environment that sparks your creativity when composing music?
I like to go to all types of museums when I travel with my family and soak up things and pieces that others have created while also learning about history, so being around anything creative will spark my mind to create some art.
If you could collaborate with any artist that's ever lived, which would you choose?
Childish Gambino(Donald Glover).