We recently connected with Marc Swersky and have shared our conversation below.
Alright, Marc thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Did you always know you wanted to pursue a creative or artistic career? When did you first know?
Funny enough, I’ve always felt like I didn’t choose my music career. It chose me. Growing up, I focused mainly on athletics, but music became a passion when I started high school. At 17, I snuck into The Fast Lane in Asbury Park, NJ, to see James Brown. This huge man approaches me and says, “There’s no way you’re old enough to be here. What are you doing in my club?” I fessed up. We introduced ourselves. He takes me to the side, asks me if I want a soft drink, and tells me to stay at watch the show. Not long after, he offered me a job and I worked on and off there for two years. I also played bass in a few bands that frequented the club. On one of those post-show nights, I struck up a conversation with the road manager for the legendary Southside Johnny and The Asbury Jukes. He asked me if I’d like to audition for another artist signed to Columbia Records at the time. I said yes, got the gig, and the rest is history!
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
First and foremost, I’m a husband and dad to twins. I’ve been lucky enough to have collaborated with some of the top artists, writers, & musicians in the music business for over 40 years. As a Songwriter/Producer, my albums have sold over 60 million copies, and I’m a two-time Grammy Award winner. It has allowed me to help develop artists worldwide and consult for major and independent label teams and music companies. I treat artists and their teams carefully and honestly because I’ve seen it all. I try to help them navigate this crazy business so they can continue to enjoy the creative PROCESS.
Is there something you think non-creatives will struggle to understand about your journey as a creative? Maybe you can provide some insight – you never know who might benefit from the enlightenment.
This is a great question! I don’t believe there is such a thing as a non-creative. We all can create. Whether you’re in finance, entertainment, construction, or education—everyone at some point has to harness their creative juices to become successful! We are all able to benefit from each other’s respective careers. Incredible companies are built by pooling knowledge and experience. Knowledge is power!!
What can society do to ensure an environment that’s helpful to artists and creatives?
More than ever, with technology changing the landscape of society, you need to understand your business. Unfortunately, with the advent of digital technology, creativity across the board has been reduced to zeroes and ones. You have various media companies, streaming services, and now AI controlling music and art consumption. Past copyright laws, unfortunately, do not fully protect the creators, and fair and equal compensation for art is at an all-time low. As I always say, “You still can’t just go into any store, steal something and expect to get away with it, can you?”
There are now a growing number of organizations like SONA, The Recording Academy, and NMPA who are fighting and lobbying to protect songwriter rights and help us earn a fair and equitable living.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.marcswersky.com
- Instagram: marcswersky
- Linkedin: marcswersky
Image Credits
original photos courtesy of jesseandrewsphotography