It was in 2007 that Marlon Webster blazed through the competition to take the local soca title with an energetic, creative and impulsive performance of his song, “Give me it!” And though he lost it the next year to the well-known Adrian Dutchin, Marlon kept working at his music; it is, he says, his life.
Today Marlon is back in the spotlight with “Train Wreck”, a catchy pop tune that he co-wrote with Courtney Douglas, which has been tearing up the airwaves and up to two weeks ago was on the Barbados’ Music Charts at number 33.
The Scene caught up with Marlon recently and chatted via email about his new song, new extended play album, ‘Rize’, new direction and what’s next for him.
Marlon Webster (MW): Ha ha. No, there is no personal heartbreak story behind this song. Even though the words may seem that way, this song was meant to create something that people can relate to in their everyday life.
The Scene: What is the status of “Train Wreck” right now? What has the response been like?
MW: As of today, “Train Wreck” is at #33 on the Barbados’s top 40 pop chart, and the response has been overwhelming!
The Scene: There was a transition from pop to soca now back to pop. How has that been for you?
MW: The transition between the two hasn’t been much of a challenge, because of my past experiences performing in cover bands. However, even though pop music is different from what I am accustomed to, it still carries some of the elements of Soca music. This allows me to remain in my comfort zone.
The Scene: Are you likely to dabble in the soca genre again?
MW: No doubt! Soca music played a major role in my career and someday I would like to try to incorporate it into my current style of music.
The Scene: Where are you based now?
MW: I am currently based out of the United States. Don’t worry though I love Guyana and know it is where my roots are.
The Scene: Is there a pop album in the offing?
MW: MY pop album (EP) ‘Rize’ has already been completed, and is set to be released very soon.
The Scene: Performances?
MW: My management team is currently working on getting things scheduled, so without a doubt my performances are inevitable.
The Scene: What about singing competitions? We have seen local and Caribbean people making their mark on shows like “The Voice”, “American Idol”, and recently “Rising Star”. Are there any plans to go this route?
MW: At this point in my career I don’t really see myself trying out for any of those anytime soon. However, anything is possible.
The Scene: Who are your musical influences?
MW: Over the years, I have been nurtured by all genres of music, but when it comes to my musical influences, Michael Jackson has always been dominant.
The Scene: What or who are you listening to and loving right now?
MW: I am loving Pharrell Williams, Pit Bull and Ariana Grande. Their styles and ranges are so amazing to me.
The Scene: You sing in the shower right? Everyone does. If we were to hear you singing in the shower what hat would you be singing? Why?
MW: YES! I sing in the shower! I love to sing any of Jason Derulo’s songs. He has great stories to tell and his music is fun to sing along with.
The Scene: What do you do for fun?
MW: When it comes to having fun, a good book, magazine, movie (comedy), watching a live show or just spending time with friends and family are what I enjoy doing.
The Scene: What’s next for you?
MW: Next on my agenda is to prepare for possible upcoming tours, which I am excited about. I will also continue writing and producing music that my fans will love.
Courtney Douglas with whom Marlon co-wrote “Train Wreck”, is from Philadelphia. He is a young and rising producer/songwriter who is also trying to make his mark in the music industry.
Marlon’s first singing gig was with the Pinnacle Band when he was 14. He subsequently sang with Krossfyah and For the People, fronted for the popular Mingles Sound Machine.
He opened for acts that came to Guyana including Neo, Akon and R Kelly.
He is currently working with Producer Ced Solo (Ariana Grande, Ginuine, Anthony Hamilton) and Grammy Award winning Producer/Engineer Zach Ziskin.
“Train Wreck” is available on Amazon, Soundcloud and iTunes.