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LAUNCH: MARKAN at Cherry Jam

markan2.jpgMUSIC LAUNCH: MARKAN at Cherry Jam, Paddington, April 3 2007

By Peter Coulston

This great city is always full of opportunities to hear and see new musical talent, and it is never that hard to find. On this occasion it was easier than normal thanks to an invite from Stone Groove Records to become acquainted with Markan, an innovative R&B/Rap artist. The venue was an intimate club on Porchester Road, only minutes away from Royal Oak tube on the Hammersmith and City, which did not appear to be a regular live music venue. Set up with DJ’s and a bar in the centre of a small room, it seemed like a good spot to meet friends and have a drink while taking in whatever was on the decks. As guests, we were treated to a little champagne and lots of hot Thai food, but this was no cocktail party; it was all about the music.

The DJ’s set the mood for what proved to be a short but soulful experience and an opportunity to meet new friends and extend my gig network. To warm us up for Markan, we had the pleasure of experiencing Saga Boy, a gritty rapper all the way from Atlanta, Georgia. I would normally give a little background to his material, but this is a family website so use your imagination. Suffice to say, he was gifted in his craft and left us ready for whatever was to come.

Markan is a rapper with a much more accessible style, utilising lyrics that reflect old school influences and deeper themes that lack the anger that is often a part of rap. He is promoted as the The Green Eyed Kid with the logo “If Anyone Can, Markan”, emphasising a positive approach to his subjects. His rapport with the audience was confident but respectful, making you feel throughout that he is a really nice guy. His set was very enjoyable, with clever lyrics over solid melodies that kept the audience loyal. “Monday Blues” and “Pressure” were particularly fine and the atmosphere of good vibes continued throughout. Thanks Stone Groove for an excellent night and a fine musical experience. We will be hearing more of Markan, whenever we can.

Comments (13)

Louise
Wikid, well done i love ya xx
Posted on April 11, 2007 4:24 PM

claudia
hey babes, well done sounds like the nite was all that and then sum, sorry i wasn't there, next time.... xx
Posted on April 11, 2007 8:08 PM

Vic Singh
Enjoyed the launch and took some great snaps. Love & Peace
Posted on April 11, 2007 8:19 PM

Erica Iji
Yes, we definatley will be hearing more of Markan! Listening to his CD now! He is very talented! Love his unique sound!
Posted on April 11, 2007 10:53 PM

mightymp
Have checked out the Markman EP and have not stopped playing it. I am feeling track 4. Heavy B-line. Will be hooking him up for a live interview on BBC 3 Counties radio very soon so watch out and listen. Check his myspace on the regular for a date when we will broadcast this great UK talent. Or just listen to www.bbc.co.uk/threecounties every Friday 8-10pm. Markman CAN!!
Posted on April 12, 2007 8:29 AM

JORDAN BAILEY
Hey Mark, looks like you SMASHED it!! Well done sorry i missed it x
Posted on April 12, 2007 9:03 AM

Ariel
Well done mate... You are a really postive man... so no wonder great things are coming your way... Keep up the good work...
Posted on April 12, 2007 11:48 AM

Emma
Really enjoyed the evening... Everyone did! Don't make us wait too long for the next! I suppose the CD will keep us going till then! Keep doing what your doing! xxx
Posted on April 14, 2007 10:13 PM

V-Double-E
Yes yes! Mr Markan! Showcase was off the hook. BIG tings are gwan - trust me. Stay positive Vee x
Posted on April 17, 2007 1:11 PM

Lena
Real cool babe congratz... XXX doing well i see
Posted on April 18, 2007 9:57 AM

Andy
I work in A&R, (I won't mention the company). I heard about the show and thought I would check this guy out. Even though his production and his lyrics are on point, his delivery lacks conviction and confidence and seems much older than the "Green eyed kid" he professes to be. There were some positives however, Markan has a talent for fusing great production with meaningful, lyrics. The only dissapointment is that he never pursued this career 15 years ago. Now, whilst I agree there should be more opportunities for "older" artists, with the exception of Snoop, Dre etc, who have been in this game from it's inception, the Rap/hip hop market is driven by a youth demographic....Maybe the "Green eyed grandfather" would be more appropriate?
Posted on April 22, 2007 10:14 AM

Wendy Woooooo
Really enjoyed your performance Greenie! Knowing what you can do, I really think you should incorporate some of your slick moves into your routine. You've got the talent in terms of music and dancing - combine them! Show the world what Markan is made of! If anyone can...... :-)
Posted on April 23, 2007 1:05 PM

scorpiane
Hey my man markan, sounds like it was a jamming nite wish i was there. Keep it up. scorps in deh house x
Posted on May 30, 2007 8:19 PM

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