Out Now Magazine Spotlight series featuring rising musician Marc Oliver for an interview
Where are you from?
I am from San Diego.
​When did you start making music?
I started playing piano when I was three. Then, right around 12 or 13 I started writing my own songs.
​How do you describe your music?
FUN. It spans from Rock to Pop mixed with a bit of R&B. I grew up listening to Michael Jackson to Beastie boys, From Notorious Big to Green day, Elton John and as far folk as Peter, Paul and Mary. It all wraps into what is in my head when I’m writing.
​Favorite moment from your career?
One of the years when I was on tour, a usual summer concert festival, we were playing right before Maroon 5, and one of my songs was heavy on the radio, when we started to play that song “Change” 15,000 people started singing it back to me. It was an amazing feeling to have that many people singing words I wrote, late at night in my car.
​Who is your biggest musical inspiration?
I have so many, I would say the music itself, songs that I hear that tell stories or help me feel the emotions that I am feeling is where I find my inspiration. So, I would say Music, is my biggest musical inspiration.
What is your producing software?
I use Pro Tools
What other things do you do besides making music?
Hang out with my kids, Surf, spear fish, golf, travel, and I’ve been boxing for years, so that too.
What is your favorite track of all time?
My favorite track that I wrote is a song that never came out, a song I wrote for Kelly Clarkson called “Wranglers”, but it didn’t make the album. But I still listen to it all the time and can still put it out one day. One of my favorite tracks from someone else is “yesterday” by the Beatles
What is your best-producing tip?
Work through the thoughts in your head one at a time. Don’t stop, and don’t give up if it’s not coming together. Just keep going. I write in so many ways depending on what is in my head, but the best tip is to just do it. That is the only way to learn and make your own tips.
Why did you start making music?
I was so young, I think it just felt good to get the madness out of my head and in front of me. It helped me feel like this is how I can understand myself. And it’s fun!
​What are your goals for the future?
In the next two years I will be hosting and playing on Saturday Night Live.
What advice can you give for young music producers/DJs?
Do it because you love it, not because of what it can bring you. The world knows a true heart, and when you love what you do, others will see it and believe as much as you do. I make music because it brings joy into my soul. Whether I make $10,000,000. or $0 this is who I am and will always be.
​Please write a message to your fans.
There are a lot of things in life that are tough. But music keeps us alive, brings us hope, gives us emotional adventure. I love making music, this is how I feel alive. I’m excited to be on this journey with you. Sit back, hang on and enjoy. See you all soon.Â
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