There are many artists out there who have the ability to leave an impression on you in more than one way. Whether it be an immediate emotional attachment to the work they do, a physical attraction to the body that they present or an intense appreciation to the many facets of creativity they produce. Sir Ben Marx is one of the artists that make you feel deeply, in all those ways plus many many more.
From early beginnings in North Carolina to continent hopping to promote and record album after album Sir Ben Marx stays busy, but took time out to answer some questions for FashionHorne.com.
I hope many more will listen and draw inspiration from music as I do.
FashionHorne: Although everyone may not know your name yet, you have been making music for years. How did you get your start in music?
Sir Ben Marc: I am the youngest of seven children, all three of my older brothers were into music when I was growing up, my mother also sings gospel.
FH: You have a large following in Europe. How was it the first time you went overseas to perform and make music?
SBM: It was very dope. When I go anywhere on earth, I feel the change in my soul, it inspires me to be even more creative than before, I LOVE TO TRAVEL & CREATE!
I literally felt the energy and stardust left behind by others who have blessed that booth.
FH: When you come from a small town sometimes it’s hard to imagine doing some of the amazing things you’ve gotten to do. What’s the reaction of some of the people back home as you continue to work and gain more acclaim?
SBM: It’s great, everyone is supportive of what I do! People around me are very positive.
FH: Your last album “Abstractions of Ben” was available for download on iTunes, which is a big deal! Congrats on that. How has that heightened level of exposure helped your career thus far?
SBM: Since I’m just getting an iPod touch, I’m more into tweeting, facing & spacing! I definitely see a drastic change in my web presence, I am pleased with my level of exposure, but I keep working and know that more will come!
FH: You’re not only a musician but a celebrated artist. You have even had your artwork displayed in museums. How does being a visual artist and a musician help you stay focused and do they play off of each other?
SBM: Art & Music are my two most creative best friends, and they are married to each other.
FH: For a lot of aspiring artists it’s a huge dream to step into the booth for the first time. Do you remember your first time, what was that moment like for you?
I gave myself a mental ultimatum: Stay in the same place or move. I chose to move.
SBM: My first time recording was actually on the top bunk bed where my older brother had his little set up, I remember feeling so electrically creative I couldn’t sleep! My first time in a “real” studio booth was at Park Hill Music Group in southern California (Gwen Gordy’s Studio). It was amazing, I literally felt the energy and stardust left behind by others who have blessed that booth.
FH: Being an artist I’m sure that you are both in tune with and at odds with your complex emotions. How did losing your brother effect how you viewed your art?
SBM: It was my wake up call to life. It forced me to re-invent myself.
FH: Some may classify you as an underground artist with an international following. How does it feel to know that you have people around the globe listening to your music and supporting your career?
SBM: I feel alright with that!!! I hope many more will listen and draw inspiration from music as I do.
FH: We have a lot of things in common. One thing I regret that we share is we both lost someone whom we consider our best friends. For me it was my mom, for you your brother. How did you pick up the pieces after your loss?
I'm a leader.
SBM: I gave myself a mental ultimatum: Stay in the same place or move. I chose to move.
FH: Seeing a tragedy as a wake up call is sometimes the best way to deal with those situations. The first time you took the stage as Sir Ben Marx, what was that like and where is your favorite city to perform?
SBM: It was at my brother’s funeral. I love to perform in NYC!
FH: How supportive has your family been while you’ve been going along your journey?
SBM: With them I see my goals clearer and they are my mirror. We see ourselves there therefore we are…there.
FH: What is your favorite Sir Ben track?
SBM: Whichever one makes a person move!
FH: Despite industry pressures what gives you the confidence to be you and make your music?
SBM: I am that unique void soon to be filled. There is no one else out there like me, I am confident of this because I’m right here.
FH: I know you stay busy. What’s the next thing your fans can expect from you?
SBM: Two new albums, STARCHILD7:LOVE ENTELECHY & STARCLUSTER- it’s actually a double CD. They are both complete, One is R&B and the other is TECHNO SOUL. They will be available on iTunes very soon. Also new modeling pics and of coarse new visual Artwork.
- “The Rain Came”
FH: Lastly, what have you learned about yourself over the last couple of years that you never expected?
SBM: I’m a leader.
FH: Oh yeah, before I forget. How do you define your personal style?
SBM: HHPPR (hiphopopunkrock)
FashionHorne.com thanks Sir Ben Marx for taking the time to answer our questions and share himself with our readers.
Find Sir Ben Marx on Facebook
here.
Before you head over and Check out Sir Ben Marx’s, “Abstractions of Ben” on iTunes.
Here are a couple of his tracks for your listening pleasure…
PHOTOS: ARNOLD GADSON
ARTWORK: Sir Ben Marx
