Marcus Atom • "Son Of A Bad Man"
Marcus Atom makes his 2018 debut with the affectionate and introspective single, “Son Of A Bad Man”. Courtesy of L.A. producers Scot Stewart and Marc Walloch, the new track’s wavy instrumentation offers Marcus’ nostalgic vocality all the room it needs to flourish. His voice rings with confidence, Marcus lays back along the beat delivering a story from the soul. The lyrics are impactful and focused on relaying his message, it’s clear that his issues are deeply seeded, yet he communicates honestly. Judging by the ease of his delivery on “Son Of A Bad Man”, Marcus' songwriting debut feels like a rich culmination of musical experience. An artistic journey Marcus has been making since the age of 5.
Now 31 years old, Marcus Atom finds himself stepping into his own spotlight after playing the supporting musician for the majority of his career. Born in Chicago, Marcus credits the city as the foundation to his artistry, “I would say in every way. Especially through relationships and networking. Chicago being one of the largest and most eclectic melting pots in this world has lead to some amazing learning experiences and opportunities.” With another single on the way next month and a project in the works, Marcus is leaping into the future excited for the road ahead. “I’ll continue surrounding myself with people that help me grow, while still creating music that I believe in. Sharing my story in hopes that somebody out there can relate.”
Find out more about Marcus Atom and his new singles in our Q&A below!
Photo by David W. Johnson
I can only imagine, but what are some experiences that inspired this particular song?
Most definitely, I feel like those spaces in relationships where we can seem misunderstood or disagree and we hit a proverbial wall. A lot of these issues stem from our own past. Then we go project our own doubts and fears on unsuspecting/undeserving loved ones. When really if we were only honest from the beginning, it would in the end serve better for future conflicts and we’d have a better understanding. This was my attempt at being vulnerable.
Your lyrics feel like honest reflections of yourself in the form of a story. As an R&B artist, do you feel like storytelling has become somewhat less apart of the art form?
In some ways yes. Art is the most beautiful to me because there are so many different ways to tell a story. Certain styles might come off more traditional; to me if the lyrics serve the song and most importantly the music that’s what matters.
What do you feel sets your solo work apart from other songs you’ve had a hand in?
Before my whole career I’ve worked for other people, played their parts/sang their lyrics. Now I’ve been given the opportunity to join the conversation and share part of my story.
Would you say this song is an accurate depiction of yourself as a man now, or something that represents a previous mind state?
To me anything that was a piece of me will always be a piece of me. I can say I hope to have grown since then but I’ll always remember those experiences and where i’ve come from.
Pick 2 or 3 Chicago artists you hope to work with in the future. What aspects of their work attracts you the most?
Ric Wilson- It makes me proud to be able to watch him grow over the past year. He is one of the most genuine artists and people I’ve ever met. His music evokes honesty and his vibe is all love.
Dally Auston- I’ve been a big fan of his since my guy showed me W$GTM video a few years back. Since then we’ve become friends, shit maybe this is my way of trying to get him to release more music as fan and friend. Honestly, in the end though I would love to “Nate Dogg” on one of his tracks, sonically could be a good mix.