7 Less

HOLLYWOODFLIP: The name of your group is "7 Less". Who thought of the name of your group and is there any significant story behind the name?

RASEC MARC:
7 Less symbolizes the hard work we put in our pursuits and dreams. It means man's persistence to work on something bigger than himself. All the hours that we put in to perfecting our craft and striving for excellence. After putting the effort of what man can do, achievements that are so much more than meets the eye will happen. Impact, purpose, inspiration, restoration, and change will be achieved.

HOLLYWOODFLIP:
Can you introduce the members of your band? When did you start the group? Is this the first band you joined? How did you meet the other members of your group?

RASEC MARC:
Rasec Marc (me) is the lead singer, songwriter and producer of the band. John Htun is the drummer/producer. We started this group 5 months ago. I have been in many bands but all of them were bands that did not have a vision to work on. Except for 7 Less. This band is inevitably going places beyond our own comprehension.

HOLLYWOODFLIP:
Are you the soloist of the group? I've seen a couple of videos online and I don't see the other members in the video, can you explain why?

RASEC MARC:
Yes. I am the singer of this group. These videos only have me and John because what we intend to show within the brand is only two faces. Two main writers.



HOLLYWOODFLIP:
How would you define the type of songs you sing? Are all of your songs written by you? How many songs have you written so far? Did you collaborate the lyrics of the songs released under 7 Less so far? What type of songs you listen to growing up and currently, any singers or songs you most listen to right now?

RASEC MARC:
This is pop/alternative. All of the song are written by me and I have written countless of songs prior to forming this band. I have been writing since I was 12 years old. For the songs under 7 Less, I would have the songs all written but will be ran through John's input and make changes from there.

I listen to Ed Sheeran, Onerepublic, Maroon 5, The 1975, James Bay. These bands are very organic-instrument oriented.

HOLLYWOODFLIP:
Did you grow up in the Philippines? How many are Filipinos in your band? Can you briefly tell me where were you born? Tell me about what your parents do. You speak the Filipino language "tagalog" fluently, how long did you live in the Philippines? Were you born and raised in the Philippines or here in the U.S.? What were your fond memories living there?

RASEC MARC:
I was born here in California but grew up in the Philippines, in Bohol. The only Filipino in this band is me. I was born in California and moved to Bohol at age 6 and grew up there until I graduated high school. Both of my parents are in the professional career. I am the only one who is in the art field. I speak fluent English, "tagalog" and "visayan."

In Bohol, friends and neighbors would always gravitate towards me. I was always the person people rally around. I remember leading the pack constantly and come up with fun things to do outside. I lived in the Philippines for 9 years until I finished high school. I was raised by my grandparents while my mom and dad were in the US establishing everything for my arrival. My last visit to the Philippines was 4 years ago when I went there with a friend, Janine Tugonon, for vacation.

HOLLYWOODFLIP:
Aside from writing songs and singing, what else skills you are good at? What kind of instruments do you play? What's the biggest audience you've played at?

RASEC MARC:
I dance, breakdance, have acted on set, do backflips and other tricks and play badminton. As far as instruments I play the guitar, piano, drums, bass and ukelele. The biggest show I have played is in front of 500 people.



HOLLYWOODFLIP:
Where have your band performed before? Can you enumerate some of the songs you have currently released? What were your inspiration when you wrote each of these songs? Do you have any favorites?

RASEC MARC: I have performed at many places in the Philippines. In the U.S., we have played at The Hotel Cafe, Genghis Cohen, Amplyfi, Republic of Pie. The songs that are currently released are: New Zealand, Don't Go, and Kiss me Goodnight. These were inspired by first hand experiences that I have gone through. Heartbreaks and love ignited.

HOLLYWOODFLIP:
What's the group plan in the next two years?

RASEC MARC:
Our plan is to be going on tours. Have the name "7 Less" be well recognized and play at Coachella, Lollapaloza and even the Time Square.

HOLLYWOODFLIP:
You also mentioned about being involved in a film production company? Can you tell me more about it?

RASEC MARC:
I am the co-founder of Rockford Pictures. It is a film production company that does music videos and movies. We have done music videos for C-TRU, BALANG, and SNOOP DOGG. Me and my friend (Alejandro Soto) have always been wanting to create video content but have failed numerous times. But due to our persistence, we have now concluded a very talented team and company.



HOLLYWOODFLIP:
What would you like your audience to take with them after watching your concert?

RASEC MARC:
I have observed the immense value of conversations. At our shows, we always highlight the relatable stories within the songs. By being vulnerable in front of everyone, it makes them understand people more. Therefore, develop compassion and empathy towards one another. It has always been through conversations and communication that a relationship and connection would be developed. When everyone could get a better perspective on the people around them, the world would be a better place.

HOLLYWOODFLIP:
Any advice for any upcoming talent, singers or performer you'd like to give?

RASEC MARC:
My advice for upcoming talents is: You just have to keep at it. There are so many things in this world that are more than meets the eye. The temporary storm that we all will be facing is a constructive way for us to be shaped into becoming better people. Financial drought, family issues, disease, tragedies are things that could easily make us run to safety and comfort. But let us not stay there. Let us take these experiences and charge it to growth. For it is with our strong vision that we will be rendered unswayed. - Hollywood Flip (Oliver Carnay)

how substantial we are as individuals. We thrive in deep conversations and meaningful interactions. We are the type of men who are comfortable shedding tears despite society's mindset of how men shouldn't cry. Emotions can be difficult to express, that's why we suppress it. We alienate ourselves from people who are willing to help. That is why some people are lonely.

Our songs help other people understand that they are not alone. The relatable stories of our songs make people feel more connected thus, giving them hope that they can move forward in life. - Ava Live Radio