Five Questions with Toronto’s best kept secret Marlon James

Marlon James (@marlonjofficial) is noted as Toronto’s best kept secret. As a collaborator and friend to some of the city’s most prominent creatives, he has garnered a reputation as a force to be reckoned with. Fitting somewhere between D’Angelo, Jai Paul, Feist and The Talking Heads, James’ sound is new and refreshing, yet classic and familiar. Heavy hitting drums, larger than life bass lines, guitars-from-mars, and a bone chilling falsetto make Marlon James a one man band that cannot be stopped.

Tell us about your current project and or single!

My latest project is my self-titled, debut EP. I created it over the course of about a year after returning from a trip to India. The sound of the album is something I could describe as a mix of the old and new. A lot of live instrumentation balanced with new electronic production techniques. I would call it “Alternative Soul”, fitting somewhere between Prince and Radiohead. I’ve also recently released a funky rendition of one of my favorite songs by renowned Canadian singer/songwriter, Bahamas, entitled “All I’ve Ever Known.”

Do you feel your current project is the best introduction to you as an artist?

I certainly do. Hence deciding on going with a self-titled album.

What is the music landscape in your neck of the woods?

Being born and raised in Toronto, I am immersed in such an eclectic community of musicians and artists. There’s a huge hip-hop and electronic scene, but I think live music is starting to make it’s way back to the forefront. I grew up playing in bands and that live aspect is what I think differentiates myself from a lot of the other artists pulling out all the tricks on their computers.

What’s on your horizon for 2017?

2017 is gearing up to be busy one. A new Marlon James project is in the works. I’ll have my hand in producing a couple other artists’ projects. Looking forward to making a lot of great new music.

The Hype Magazine wants to know: What’s been your CRAZIEST “Where they do that at?! Or “WTF?!” moment thus far in your career?

I know a pretty figgy DJ that used to watch Bob’s Burgers while spinning to a packed a club. I kinda rate that though.

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About the Author

Dr. Jerry Doby Editor-in-Chief of The Hype Magazine, Media and SEO Consultant, Journalist, Ph.D. and retired combat vet. 2023 recipient of The President's Lifetime Achievement Award. Partner at THM Media Group. Member of the U.S. Department of Arts and Culture, the United States Press Agency and ForbesBLK.