We recently connected with Jamal Markell and have shared our conversation below.
Jamal, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Can you talk to us about how you learned to do what you do?
So like many, I grew up singing in church. My family is filled with singers, Musicians, and artist. So it’s a gift that was given without choice . And I’m grateful lol. But over the years it’s been my duty to sharpen and perfect my gift . But there was also a short gap in between me growing up singing and finding my voice now .Right after Highschool I found myself procrastinating and not being able to tune in to my artistry . At one point my blockage was so sever I became completely hopeless for a moment. Had I took time sooner to focus I know I would be a lot further then where I am. I stood in my own way , most importantly I understood that I lacked the motivation and drive needed to succeed. Nonetheless taking time finding my voice , and finding my strength in my music has given me the opportunity to create on a more personal and intimate level.
Jamal, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?
I am a southern, city boy. At its best lol . Born and raised in Florida April 14th, 1997. My family still refers to me as “miracle baby”. I was not suppose to live when I was born due to having an unexpected home birth. Me and my Mom waited for 6 hours until any help came , I came in this world a fighter . I made the news paper that day, and each family member still has a copy. But that’s only the beginning of the long journey that has made me who I am today . I’ve gone through family abuse , to being in foster care. Unfortunately my parents didn’t raise me, for some time my grandmother did. Being the third eldest of 7, after a certain point we all didn’t live together . Prior to that point I had to grow up really fast and take on many responsibilities. Sounds familiar? But again , just apart of my journey. Who I am today reflects who I was growing up in the best ways . Always being a singer, as I got older I took the time to find my voice. Taking everything I had been through and finding an outlet. As an artist who not only sings at church , but does numerous showcases and events on a solo platform . I have built my art on the foundation of influence and change . Creating music that moves and touches the souls of my listeners. I want listeners to not only relate to my body of work . But to also find relief, joy, and hope in the messages. To know that they have the same power and strength I had to overcome my obstacles.
For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?
The most rewarding aspect of being an artist is the influence you have . And with that , the opportunity to make a difference. Nothing makes me feel better. I’ve had many people come tell me how my voice “makes them feel like everything is gonna be alright” . I’ve had people come up to me after singing at church and stated “how they feel completely better after hearing me”. & one special moment I’ll never forget is when a young lady told me she wanted to kill herself but after hearing me she no longer had the want . These are the moments that makes it worth it . The moments that I realize my gift is bigger than me . The moments that make being an artist so rewarding.
In your view, what can society to do to best support artists, creatives and a thriving creative ecosystem?
I believe the best way society can support artist and the creative ecosystem, is to stream and share. An artist puts so much of themselves into the work. So that listeners can have the best experience when engaging. But society must push and promote especially their local artist. That push and support from society allows artist to be more vulnerable and available to create more .
Contact Info:
- Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/jamal.markell
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JamalMarkell-1943716889284400/