Who Is Mari?
MARI (Photo: Squarespace)
Old Soul. New Vibes. Chicago-born Mari, already known for his “lyrically rich raps, melodic choruses, and spacey, soulful instrumentals,” made a splash in Fall 2016 after his Caribbean carnival-themed “Paper Run” cracked Spotify’s US & Global Viral Charts. Mari is currently spending most of his time in New York City, developing his sound in the studio and working alongside artists including NanaBcool, Simen Sez, and Matt FX. 2017 has proven to be another strong year for Mari with a slew of collaborations, a slot at the A3C Festival in Atlanta, and a spot on Comedy Central’s Broad City for his song, “On Fleek.” He was most recently featured on American Teen producer UNO Stereo’s “KEEP UP,” described by Complex as “genre-bending” with “nostalgic flourishes.”
The Hype Magazine got Mari to weigh in on his A3C experience, the importance of outlets like stage sponsor Squarespace for independent artists, labels, etc.
From the outside looking in, who is Mari?
It’s hard to say. I guess it depends on who’s looking and how they want to perceive me. Perhaps most people would see me as a free-spirited person with no pressure to conform to what most of my peers are doing, but still fluid enough to connect with anyone at some level.
What brought you to the entertainment industry, music specifically?
I knew that entertainment would be the best platform to widely spread impactful messages, inspire people, and bring joy. Music and entertainment provide me with the platform I need to eventually create, build, and empower communities that will make changes in society.
What do you want people to get from your music?
I naturally make music that’s enjoyable to listen to, even when rapping about uncomfortable topics. With that, I want the fans to take away a spectrum of emotions from my music that may reflect their own lives. I want them to experience a range of vibes. None of us are one-dimensional, and I want them to recognize that. I want them to feel a sense of community and belonging by listening to my music.
Why is it essential to have a digital presence as a hip-hop artist in 2017?
Having a digital presence plays a tremendous role in an artist’s career. The best way to reach people worldwide is the internet. The more people you can make aware of your musical brand, the more loyal fans you can build, the higher your chances of success. Having a website on Squarespace has bolstered my career in the best ways possible. It’s an all-in-one stop for my brand. You can get to my Spotify, my merchandise, and my music videos with ease.
A3C: MARI This Is My Year Performance (Photo: Squarespace)
Tell us what it meant to you to be a part of A3C’s “This Is My Year” showcase this year.
A3C’s “This Is My Year” gave me the grand opportunity to galvanize my fanbase, and their support during the campaign helped me enter into a new phase of my career. Being on the Squarespace Discovery Stage felt like taking a major next step. Them knowing that I’ll play in the same festival as hip-hop legends such as Nas and Just Blaze and others is very validating for the movement we’ve been pushing for my career.
Tell us about your current project.
I’ve been developing my next musical project sonically for over two years, and it focuses on themes of hustling, giving back, and finding peace of mind. It’s all produced by me with contributing producers and musicians. However, my focal project, for now, deals with something bigger than music. The project consists of surrounding myself with talented, trusted, individuals ranging from music/visual artists to businesspeople to create a healthy culture where my music career can not only live and grow but provide opportunities for others I work with.
For new listeners, what song of yours would you pick as an introduction to you as an artist?
I’d pick 40 Flavors. It’s sonically unique enough to stand out from the pack, but also has a groove and feel that blends with where the music industry is currently.
Tell us a bit about your work and passions OUTSIDE of music…
As far as work, I work as a host at a popular restaurant in Harlem, and I occasionally do odd jobs like moving help, heavy lifting, etc. My passions include food (I love to eat, improvise dishes with cheap/junk food) and people. I’m naturally an introverted person, sometimes a bit detached, but it makes me really appreciate quality time with people. From that, we’re always learning something new and growing. Gotta be with and of the people!
Last but not least, HYPE wants to know…What’s your CRAZIEST “Where they do that at?!” aka WTF?! moment…
This question is really tough because since I’ve moved to NYC, I’ve accepted the fact that nothing is outside the realm of possibilities, so you expect anything. I’m having a crazy WTF moment with how tough this question is when NYC rats carrying pizza down the subway stairs is hilarious but understandably reasonable. You’ve seen it all after that. NYC itself is a continuous WTF moment that residents may not pay much attention to, but visitors will be wowed by.
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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.
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