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Exclusive: This…is Marcus Canty

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Exclusive: This…is Marcus Canty

A little over a year ago, fans across the country witnessed young Marcus Canty serenade Grammy award winning artist Rihanna on the hit show X-factor. After his heartfelt performance to K-Ci and Jo-Jo’s “All My Life”, Rihanna commented “I couldn’t even look at him anymore,” as she was swooned by his vocals.

“It’s funny because I didn’t see her comment until the show’s taping; it would be an honor to work with Rihanna.” Canty reveals.

As he was vying for the X-factor title, he had not only won over the hearts of thousands of fans and the international superstar Rihanna, but he had a fan of influential stature, in record executive L.A. Reid. Reid, who is the producer to heavy hitters such as Mariah Carey, Toni Braxton and Usher, took Marcus under his wing and proved that he was his new muse. Little did Marcus know that this would be the man to change his life. “L.A. Reid was probably the main reason I did the show because I really didn’t want to do the show after my American Idol upset.” But with his newfound confidence and persistence, Canty continued to gain fans with his cool R&B style and ease on stage. L.A. Reid told the singer to “never let anyone take your joy”, and even after not winning the title, Marcus had nothing to mourn, as Reid immediately signed him to Epic Records after the show’s taping.

“My most proud moment was being signed. Getting signed made me feel like I was apart of something big, something great”! Now known as Marcus Canty “The Artist”, he has been working hard to promote his debut album This…Is Marcus Canty.

“I can’t wait for this EP! I’m more excited then anybody else”. Busy with promo tours, numerous speaking gigs and the recent big accomplishment of performing at the Soul Train Awards, alongside legendary Stevie Wonder, Marcus Canty’s life has gone from 0 to 60 in just a matter of months.

“The promo tour is great for me to show the fans that I’m more then what was shown on X-factor”. With his first single “In and Out”, Marcus talks about a topic that most can relate to: love.

“In and Out spoke to me the most because I felt that song could reach fans of any age”. With its smooth beat and fun and flirty video, Marcus got the attention of many fans and started a buzz. As he opened up about his first single, talk about the upcoming second single “Used By You”, which talks about a young man in a side-relationship with a woman who is currently already involved with someone. Marcus states how he doesn’t mind being used by the girl as long as he is with her.

“”Used By You is going to take me to that next level. I am young…but I am 21, people”! Even though the song’s subject matter may be a little racy and more mature for his target audience, Marcus Canty still wants to reach audiences of all ages.

Not only is Canty striving to make his mark in music, but also in his community. Pioneer of non-profit organization YAMD ( Young Artist Making a Difference), he seeks to help less fortunate kids get funding for performing arts. “Music changes lives”, Canty exclaims.

Whether it’s working on music, philanthropist acts or dabbling in acting, Marcus Canty is working hard to make sure fans know exactly who he is through him pursuing his dreams. Marcus explains one of his future goals: “I’m trying to get in the studio with Beyoncé, if you can find her. Jay stole my crush away from me”, he says jokingly. “Beyoncé is one of my all time favorite female artists. I used to always sing “Dangerously In Love” back when my voice was a little higher, before reaching puberty.”

He also plans on sharpening his craft by learning other instruments other then the piano, which he already plays. “I want to learn to move a little better too”, Marcus states as he refers to his dancing.
A man of many dreams, an entertainer and artist, Marcus Canty’s story is the quintessential success story. From rejection to triumphs, his persistence, faith and courage has put him in the position that he is in today. And now to the world This…Is Marcus Canty

Kontrol Magazine is giving you the chance to win Marcus Canty’s new album “This…Is Marcus Canty. Here’s what you have to do….

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By Torin Mitchell

Tags:

Beyonce, K-Ci and Jo-Jo's "All My Life", L.A. Reid, Marcus Canty, performing arts, This...is Marcus Canty, X-Factor, YAMD, YAMD ( Young Artist Making a Difference)

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Julian R. Lark is a distinguished entrepreneur and award-winning stylist, sought after for his take on classic glamour. Having over a decade of experience coupled with a degree in Fashion, Lark has made himself an integral part in creating breathtaking moments for countless Hollywood celebrities. As a tastemaker in fashion, he has launched an online boutique and showroom in Atlanta to make breathtaking moments accessible to his growing audience. Julian forged his own path by creating the nationally published Kontrol Magazine as Editor-in-chief and lead stylist. He has crafted memorable moments for Hollywood icons like Anita Baker, Lynn Whitefield, Toni Braxton and Lil’ Kim. He’s been called upon to work on projects for numerous studios and networks including FX, Netflix, Bravo, OWN, WeTV and VH1. Press features of his work include Huffington Post, People, US Weekly, E! News, The View, and The Wendy Williams Show. In addition to his work as a stylist, in 2014 Julian launched his first stylist class, which is designed to help aspiring stylist learn how to build a successful career in the industry. Continuing to leverage his audience he has launched his own cosmetics line, and agency for stylist. Julian has proven himself to be a creative visionary and industry zealot. His drive, coupled with his uncanny ability to empower through fashion and style will undoubtedly ensure constant growth, both personally and professionally, in fashion and beyond.