Martel Star
Atlanta, Georgia, United States | Established. Jan 01, 2019 | SELF
Music
Press
Depending on where you’re reading this from its summer and it's hot. the beaches are over crowded, bugs are everywhere, and bad ass kids across the nation are in the streets because they’re out of school. For many, summer represents the return of tank tops, swimming, air conditioning, and hot Sunday brunches. But do you know what else summer represents? Music. Good music. To ensure that we stayed in tune with the theme of our second annual “Independence” issue, we decided to spend a little time with Martel Star.
Martel was raised in Ohio as the oldest of five siblings by his grandmother. As a child he was extremely active in the church, which is where he developed his love for music. Martel began songwriting around the age of fourteen, and was certain that he was going to be an amazing singer.
Reality, however, had other plans for him at the time. “I knew I was gonna be an amazing singer, only to realize years later that...I can’t sing!” In 2012 Star began working with R&B singer, Kei Mari and joined the independent Empire Entertainment label. During his time at Empire, Star wrote most of Kei Mari’s Genesis mixtape. “ I immediately expected every artist to bust down my door for a track”, says Star on the expectations he set after his first big gig. It never happened. “I had to find another outlet to expose my writing,” he says, “so I started rapping.”
Like many independent artists, Martel has had to overcome a multitude of challenges, the first of which was to find a way to get people to hear his music. Although his first leap of faith landed him with Empire, he was still thirsty for exposure, and part of getting that exposure required for people to take him and his music seriously. It doesn’t matter how progressive any of us view today’s society to be in terms of acceptance, because there are still very few mainstream rappers or hip-hop artists who openly identify as black gay men. Despite the fact that there’s an audience for it, not everyone is up hearing a black gay man’s take on things like living on the down low, HIV or any other issue that’s thought to be gay specific.
The rap industry, as it stands now, is as it has been rendered; an exclusively heterosexual male platform. It has had a long standing history with homophobia and misogyny, two things that don’t really go well with “gay”.
Martel is too familiar with the challenges that come with being a same gender loving independent rapper. “I've gone to these different events with these hyper-masculine, "I be in the trap and I smash all the bitches" type rappers...and then here comes Martel Star with his technicolor hair…” he says.
“The Juxtaposition is triggering at times. I always have to take a step back and realize, regardless of how dope a lot of my hetero-rap counterparts may be, they're often so closely aligned in sound, they all blur together. It's not a game of being better than them, but more memorable. And I often leave a taste in your mouth that you never quite forget.”
One of the things that keeps Martel motivated push forward is failure. “I know everything won’t be perfect.” Martel says that the greatest disappointment would not shooting his shot at the industry, especially knowing that he’s got a chance at being successful. That, to him, would be the ultimate failure.
This seems appropriate when considering that nothing beats a failure but a try, and part of trying is sometimes making bad decisions. In fact, one of the downsides of being an independent artist is dealing with the consequences of these bad decisions, and Martel is no stranger to that.
According to Martel, some of the worst decisions he’s made have all involved him either waiting or not doing something out of fear. “I've even hesitated to put out content on social media because I was concerned with how it would be received” he says. “As an indie creative, there really isn't room to neglect [an] opportunity, because you never know who's watching at the time that can put you on the next level.”
Being an independent artist might not be the easiest thing on Earth, but it definitely comes with some pretty dope perks, and part of these perks come as a result of the influence of social media. We’ve all heard about some of the shitty deals artists who go through major record labels have received, which might leave one to wonder why anyone would even consider it. Some of the liberties of being an independent music artist include having complete control over the direction of their content, the ability to retain your copyrighted material, and not having to worry about contract limitations.
Martel wouldn’t trade any of these perks in for the world. Or would he? “I don't have any contracts restricting what I can and can't do. Nothing to dictate my art. [What’s] Most important to me is that I own all of my own music.” However he does admit that he’d take a deal from a major record label if the opportunity presented itself.
“If I were to get signed and they wanted me to cater my sound to a specific audience, I'll conform to get on.” According to Martel, the most important part of this is getting established to the point to where he’d be able to leave the label as he feels that it’ll be easier to do the kind of music he wants. “I would still have to have full ownership of all my music.”, he says.
Everything in life requires balance. Whether we’re balancing our work life with our personal life, or trying to balance a checkbook, everything requires balance. Martel Star is wild and ratchet and his art portrays that. However much he views both his brand and his creativity as resting in the same vein, he still maintains a modicum of balance when appropriate.
Outside of music he works with Twisted Fabrik, an Atlanta based clothing company with whom he serves as a brand ambassador. The brand’s focus is on cultivating a niche of all inclusive fashion as they strive to maintain their knack for creating looks that are fresh, stylish and edgy. “That sometimes requires me to take the ratchet down a notch or two to present who I need to be on camera and when presenting the product.” he says. “I always put a piece of me in everything I do, but I also have to respect the art of those I'm working with.”
Erykah Badu warned us about her being both an artist and about her being sensitive about her shit, and rightfully so. Almost every artist has a process when it comes to creating, but Martel admits to being quite the opposite.” I don't even have a process!” I'm really all over the place. Sometimes I'll just think of some dope lines and I'll write them down to use for later. Other times, I may actually be listening to a beat & something will hit. It all varies. I do find my best writing comes when I'm under the influence and by myself.”
Regardless of whether or not he has a process, his work is paying off, because the people are listening. “Most people who hear my music, love it. Not everyone, of course. But overall, folks will hear it and will respond with " AYYYEEEE". And that is the exact response I am seeking.” When it comes to describing the way he feels after receiving the amount of support he’s gotten from fans of his music, he can only think of one word: humbled. “I'm always just appreciative that people take their time to listen to me. So when people tell me how much they love it, I'm so thankful because it makes me feel like I'm headed in the right direction.“
There’s always a time and a place for humility, but Reignbeaux Lux doesn’t have the time, and Black,Gay & Gifted certainly isn’t the place for it either. We challenged Martel to throw all modesty out of the window, and for him to explain just why he deserves a place among and alongside our previous Black,Gay & Gifted features.“BECAUSE I BEEN THAT NIGGA!” But of course, true to form, he asks whether or not he’s allowed to say that. “I stand out from the rest because I truly do focus on my own lane. I don't want to be the next ‘so and so’, I don't want to sound like Random Rapper ABC. I work hard to be my own individual.”
Martel describes himself as being refreshing and considers himself as being doper than a lot of the mainstream artists with bigger budgets. “ From a creative standpoint I exceed the bar and I’m STILL growing” he says. “But again, I’m still just thankful for every individual who takes just a little bit of their time to listen to my music.”
The future's looking brighter and brighter for Martel as he’s currently working on a mini mixtape to give us something to vibe to this summer. He’s also got plans on dropping a video for “Gimme What I Want” which is set to be the last single from his “Welcome to Emerald City” EP. From there he plans to start working on the rollout for what he calls the next era of his music. According to Martel, a lot of his most coveted tracks have yet to be released. “I have a song called “H.I.M” that's gonna be on my next project and it's the track I'm most excited for”. He’s confident that “H.I.M” will not only showcase his writing abilities, but that fans will appreciate the sexually charged tune despite it being something that’s outside of the norm for him.
With all that Martel Star is doing, and all that he’s done, it’s safe to say that while he may be on his way, he’s only moments from arrival. The music industry is already challenging enough without the SGL component, but we’re confident that Martel will remain focused on carving a path for himself and the SGL artists to follow. His advice to those artists is to remain persistent in networking, to collaborate whenever possible and to invest in yourself. “It makes such a difference to spend that extra hundred to have your music properly mixed, or to put it towards marketing. It's all really the small things that go into the bigger picture of your art.”
According to Martel, one of the things the world needs more of is love and support. “So many people are focused on ‘self. How they can get more, or [get] to the next level. I've found, personally, when you put that same energy into someone else, it comes back stronger & quicker.” Meanwhile, Martel’s focus to see, and be a part of everyone’s success. “I really want to see everyone win,” he says. “I just wish more people had that same mindset.” If only.
Martel closed his interview by talking about some of the artists he’d like to work with in the future. “I'm speaking into existence that I'll have a track with Megan Thee Stallion soon. The Dream is my personal idol. He's an amazing writer. Let me get in the studio with him and just write something crazy for an artist and I'll be MORE than satisfied!”
And lastly, when it comes to exerting his independence in both his personal life and work, Martel says that he stands firm on doing what I want. “ When you carry yourself with confidence, even the most ridiculous things seem to make sense. I’ve had people share their opinions on my aesthetic, presentation, and even sometimes on my artistic direction, but I’m definitely in a clear space about who Martel Star is, and I stick to it.”
Summer is filled with opportunities to vibe, and those opportunities should almost always be lubricated with good music. Martel has shown through both his music and his continued dedication to his craft that he’s what’s next. He’s making connections, pushing boundaries, and laying down a path for all the artists who are sure to follow his lead. You can keep up with Martel via his Instagram,Twitter, and Facebook. - Reignbeaux Lux
Martel Star wants to take you to Emerald City with his illest flow and dope lyrics. This Out in Hip Hop artist is multifaceted and his talent doesn’t end with just the music. He’s also one of the main actors on the hit web-series “Twisted” created by Dream House Television Network on YouTube.
Check out our exclusive one-on-one interview as he shares his goals, advice and also his love for his craft.
Tell us more about your recent EP “Welcome To Emerald City.” What does this EP mean to you as far as this body of work?
WTEC is my baby. It’s only 6 songs, but it’s my first real introduction. I dropped a mixtape back in 2013, but I was trash back then [lol]. I found my voice & my sound & it’s authentic. Emerald City is really about a journey of finding yourself. Like Dorothy & them, just getting to a place to make your dreams something tangible.
Tell us a little-bit about who you are as Martel, vs. Martel Star (the artist). What are some of your hobbies and goals?
Honestly, this is it. All I know is entertainment. I’m an actor. I play Nick in the web-series “Twisted” on the Dream House Television Network. I’m a brand ambassador for Twisted Fabrik, which is a local line here in Atlanta. And church. I’m super into the church.
What made you get started with acting and music? And if you had to pick one which one would you consider being your first love?
I’m working on an album titled “Wicked.” It’s the next part of the series. Now we’re in Emerald City, the album reflects the darkside of that & really my personal struggle of being Martel Star, the artist vs. Martel, in the real world, working on a relationship with God, love, & just trying to survive in life.
Being in Atlanta, Wicked is easy to find, but the internal struggle, that’s the real fight.
– Martel Star
Martel Star wants to take you to Emerald City with his illest flow and dope lyrics. This Out in Hip Hop artist is multifaceted and his talent doesn’t end with just the music. He’s also one of the main actors on the hit web-series “Twisted” created by Dream House Television Network on YouTube.
Check out our exclusive one-on-one interview as he shares his goals, advice and also his love for his craft.
Tell us more about your recent EP “Welcome To Emerald City.” What does this EP mean to you as far as this body of work?
WTEC is my baby. It’s only 6 songs, but it’s my first real introduction. I dropped a mixtape back in 2013, but I was trash back then [lol]. I found my voice & my sound & it’s authentic. Emerald City is really about a journey of finding yourself. Like Dorothy & them, just getting to a place to make your dreams something tangible.
Tell us a little-bit about who you are as Martel, vs. Martel Star (the artist). What are some of your hobbies and goals?
Honestly, this is it. All I know is entertainment. I’m an actor. I play Nick in the web-series “Twisted” on the Dream House Television Network. I’m a brand ambassador for Twisted Fabrik, which is a local line here in Atlanta. And church. I’m super into the church.
What made you get started with acting and music? And if you had to pick one which one would you consider being your first love?
I grew up in theater. Church & school musicals. I’ve prayed that God would enhance my gift & my love & skill continues to grow. It’s hard to weigh them but music is my passion. Like music is Bae [lol].
Who influenced your music as far as artists you grew up listening to?
The-Dream. I think as a songwriter; he is unmatched. So I’m striving to match & surpass. But rap wise, I think both Luda & Busta really don’t get enough credit & I’ve always admired that they didn’t sit in the box of your average rapper
Excellent choices!
So when it comes to your sound vs. other gay artists, what differentiates you from them?
I can actually rap [lol] Nooooo, I kid I kid. I don’t compare myself to other artist, gay or straight. I always want to ensure I have my own sound. But I imagine that the biggest difference is content as I don’t typically rap about the gay lifestyle often.
If you could shout out any gay rapper who would they be, and what do you like about their style?
I’ve talked to Charlie Xile a few times & I think he’s dope. Like who he is as an artist, he’s committed. But the Freaky Boiz… I would love to do a track with them. I think lyrically, they’re some of the dopest artist I’ve heard spit. They’re fire with the wordplay.
How much would you say your music have improved since your first released track?
Leaps & bounds! My first track I released, I was corny. I sounded like a goofball. Bars were dope, it wasn’t right. Real forced. I’m comfortable now & you can hear it.
Tell us your top three favorite tracks on your latest EP?
1. Gimme What I want. It rides. It’s a lil sexy, has a ratchet vibe on it. & my bot R10 (@_newhomme) features on it & killed the hook.
2. ShowOff. It’s literally a ratchet turn-up track. Me feeling myself. It really showcases my wordplay.
3. Talk That Shit. It was the 1st single form the project & it was the first track where I really felt like I was being Martel Star & not what people wanted me to sound like.
Share with us what influences your music.
Life. My brand is real “Young, wild & ratchet” & that’s what my music is. Like sex drugs & rock n Roll [lol]. So when it’s time to be a rat, you can turn on Martel Star & get that.
Tell us more about your role on the web-series TWISTED, and how did you land it?
AHHH! I play the role of Nick. It is a story written by Rahim Brazil. I went to the audition & read for another role but he asked me to read for Nick. It was perfection [lol]. Nick is a young naive guy, who’s just looking for love in all the wrong places. He’s HIV positive & isn’t letting that hold him back from finding the right guy.
What’s the biggest connection you would say you have with Nick the character?
I think I was Nick about 8-10 years ago. I wanted to find someone to make me happy at all costs. I’m that nigga now, so that’s not my testimony anymore, but I was definitely in love with the idea of being in love, once upon a time.
What’s your dream role? What type of character(s) would you play next, that you think you could embody the way you do with Nick in the hit series Twisted?
My dream role would be some Harry Potter type shit. Black people are so under-represented in fantasy type roles. I’m in another series titled “The Real Scholars”, where I play a straight, abusive ex-husband named Mike. I’d love to explore that type of role more. It’s easy to play Nick, because I’ve been Nick. I’ve never been Mike. Unnecessarily aggressive. vulgar. Not Martel. That’s what I would like to get into next.
Where do you see yourself in 10 years as far as your career and goals?
In 10 years, I’ve retired from rap, I’m writing & managing for artists, & I’m acting full time as a series regular on a show like Star or Empire. And that’s really at the bare minimum.
If you could give other gay rappers or actors any advice what would you tell them and why?
Just go for it. I’m really big on pushing indie creativity. We no longer need a mega-machine to make us successful. Push yourself. Open your own doors. Climb through the windows if you have to, but put yourself out there because NO ONE else is gonna do it for you.
That’s the honest, and raw piece of advice and the most truthful way to put it. Where can the readers find out more about and also where we can they purchase your music?
You can find me on Twitter & IG: @MartelStar On Facebook: Martel Star Music
I’m on all digital music platforms. Martel Star – Welcome to Emerald City. smarturl.it/MartelStar
[The link will take you to all your preferred platform of choice.]
Well, it was a pleasure to have this one on one with you and getting to know a little more about you. What’s one last thing you would like to share with the readers and potential new fans before we close out the interview?
Thank you so much for allowing me this opportunity to share myself with your viewer & readers. I want to say support the creative’s around you. Repost & shout out your friends because when we turn to the next Beyonce or Jay-Z, you remember who supported you from the beginning.
That’s great! Definitely come back to chat with me about your album! I look forward to listening to the album.
Thank you so much! I’ll definitely shoot it over to you when it’s ready to go! - JustBeingAnthony
When it comes to who in Atlanta has and who does not there is a short list and then there’s a list that practically scrapes the stratosphere. Thankfully one Atlanta artist and actor is daring to break the stratosphere, becoming a rising star of the Web World and music world!
Martel Star is his name, winning is his game, and if you haven’t heard of him there’s a ledge on Spaghetti Junction you can step off of!
We first met Martel back in 2015, when he first began his acting career in a fledgling web series that never quite made it to production. That project may have fizzled but Martel has done everything, but that. “I’m just always determined to be the best me I can be. God’s blessed me with the ability to do a lot and I just know that my talent is going to take me some really amazing places…it is already is actually!”
Indeed, Martel Star has made some serious moves in the last year with his appearance in noted web series, 7th & Love and Rahim Brazil’s Twisted. “Acting has really been taking off for me and I’m very happy about that [He laughs]. I definitely consider myself blessed for the opportunities I’ve been given and I’m actually about to be in a new web series that I can’ give the details on yet…” Martel made waves in his role on Twisted as “Nick,” an HIV positive gay man looking for love in all the wrong places. “Y’all know y’all love Nick! I’ll definitely be reprising that role in ‘Twisted 2’ [sequel/Season 2 of Twisted]…I really enjoyed playing that character because I feel like people relate to him a lot…we’ve all been played a little or been the person pining after someone. But he has a lot of strength and he really grew as the season progressed…”
As aforementioned Martel is not only a great actor, but an equally amazing artist. The boy can rap with the best of them and is constantly working to be greater and push the envelope to stardom. His latest musical venture involves a new EP, Welcome To Emerald City! The EP not only showcases his talents, but really set the bar for other indie rappers out there. “This [EP] has been a long time coming and I’ve put a lot of love and time into it–it’s my baby! The album definitely has something for everyone and you will be able to have fun and turn up to it!” Martel goes on to reveal the origins of his EP’s name. “Well I absolutely love ‘The Wizard of Oz!’ [And] I feel like Atlanta is Emerald City…It’s Black Hollywood, all the music and entertainment is coming from out here. It’s like the Black Mecca and land of opportunities just like Emerald City is where Dorothy, Scarecrow, Tin Man, and The Lion went to get what they needed.”
Atlanta may very well be the launching pad for what will undoubtedly be an amazing career for Martel Star. However, it will be his charisma, talent, and will to be the best that will keep him there and rocket him to the top. “I’m ready for it all, and it’s going to be lit! I know I’m ready for it all and I’ll be giving the people a show!” Still, don’t take our word for it. If you are in Atlanta come and check him out at Welcome To Emerald City’s Release Party! It all goes down at the Liquid Lounge, 150 Pine Street Northeast, Atlanta, GA 30308 at 5 PM EST! You can download Welcome To Emerald City on ALL digital platforms! Happy Listening! - HeyMikeyATL
Today we’d like to introduce you to Martel Star.
Every artist has a unique story. Can you briefly walk us through yours?
I’ve loved the arts all my life. I began doing musicals & plays in church. The typical story. By high school, I had grown a passion for entertainment. I began working professionally in my late teens in Columbus, Ohio. I eventually moved to Atlanta where I really was able to lock into my sound & become the ratchet rapper that I am now. I’m currently on a journey through my personal Emerald City, to become the greatest artist I can be, both in music & film.
Please tell us about your art.
I am a rapper/Songwriter & actor. It’s my passion to entertain people & to also encourage others to strive for their passions. I want to be a beacon of light to the people, to uplift them. My music itself is simply ratchet, feel-good music. I want people to hear my music & they’re first thought be “Ayyyye,” which is typically the case. I want to entice a life-long turn-up. My music is fun & my message is to succeed.
We often hear from artists that being an artist can be lonely. Any advice for those looking to connect with other artists?
I seldom ever feel that way. This industry is all about networking. I’m personally open to working with anyone, in any form, shape, or fashion. I’m super invested in making INDIE the new mainstream. I just want to encourage & promote others so that we ALL succeed. So if anyone is ever interested in connecting with me, I just say reach out & let’s make magic!
How or where can people see your work? How can people support your work?
You can locate my music at https://smarturl.it/Martelstar. From there, you can reach all of my social media platforms as well. I always encourage everyone to go purchase my EP “Welcome To Emerald City,” or in the most simplistic form of support, just like, comment, & share my posts on IG. You can support indie creatives without having to ever spend a dime.
Martel Star – Show Off (Official Video)
Contact Info:
Website: https://smarturl.it/Martelstar
Email: MartelStar@yahoo.com
Instagram: Instagram.com/MartelStar
Facebook: Facebook.com/MartelStarMusic
Twitter: Twitter.com/MartelStar
Other: Reverbnation.com/MartelStar - Voyage ATL
Martel Star sizzled on the scene from rapping & acting in the hit web series, "Twisted". From his bright & colorful fashions & a attitude that captures our hearts, this Atlanta native is a chameleon when it comes to his effortless style. His bold and bright lyrics flow just perfectly to command our attention. Martel has done fashion shows for Atlanta based designer,Twisted Fabrik. As you can see, Martel loves a lot of prints & patterns. - GayeMagazine
“A Star Is Born”–Martel Star, that is, and he is a triple threat. This Web Star can sing, dance, model, and act; and is making a name for himself on the indie circuit. Still what’s the trivia behind Martel Star, we know he’s talented, but what’s the trivia? You can find that out in our latest edition of “Web Star Watched!”
Published 6 months ago on March 13, 2019 By Mikey Fanning
“A Star Is Born”–Martel Star, that is, and he is a triple threat. This Web Star can sing, dance, model, and act; and is making a name for himself on the indie circuit. Still what’s the trivia behind Martel Star, we know he’s talented, but what’s the trivia? You can find that out in our latest edition of “Web Star Watched!”
1. Have you always wanted to be an actor? What’s been your favorite role?
– For the most part of my life, yes. My favorite role, this far, has been Justen from the 7th & Love Web series. He’s really quick witted & snappy at times, but not too over the top.
2. How do you prepare for a role?
– Based on what the character description, I then create the background for the character that isn’t given. I give them last names, fill in their childhood & upbringing. I build the character’s past so I have a more realistic portrayal of who they are in the present.
3. Who are biggest personal influences?
– My dad. He wasn’t involved in my life, growing up, due to being incarcerated. We reconnected when I was about 21 & he’s literally my twin. He used to rap when he was younger but life stopped his plans. So now I feel like I have to succeed for the both of us. He’ll live his dream vicariously through me.
4. Who are your biggest professional influences?
– Musically, The-Dream has been my idol for over 10 years now. In film, I actually love Samuel L. Jackson. He’s so versatile in his roles & even the demographic that he appeals to.
5. How do you manage your personal and professional life?
– I need my personal life to survive. I still have to pay my bills, go to church, & handle day to day things. But my professional life is my goal. So it’s really about, what in your personal life can you afford to cut down on. I tell myself, “I can skip brunch to go film.” or “I can’t go out tonight because I have a studio session.” The people in my life understand because they want me to win just as much as I want to win.
6. What do you do in your downtime? Any hobbies?
– I’m not sure I know what downtime is anymore lol Honestly, I’m a big gamer. I’m a PS4 kid.
7. What is the biggest misconception people have about you?
– I can sometimes (Often times) be loud & obnoxious & some people may believe that to be a character or part of my “Martel Star Persona”, when in fact, I’ve been that boy all my life. At home, work, school, church, I’m the same ratchet hoodrat. I know how to maintain myself per my environment, but that’s me. All day!
8. Single, taken, or “it’s complicated?” OOP! Haha I am single & open to date, however, have current interests. That’s the safest answer.
9. What do you think is your best physical feature?
– I honestly have a great face overall. It carries an innocence that is really attractive….But my thighs are honestly my best quality. I used to be a fat kid, but now that I’ve grown up, these legs have really turned into a prize!
10. Is there anything you don’t like about yourself, or feel you can work on? – My speech. I’ll Ariana Grande my way through a whole Sentence.
11. Last movie you saw – Captain Marvel….Meh
12. Your favorite web series
– I would love to say the Twisted webseries on the Dreamhouse Television Network, starring me, but, not choosing my own project, I LOVE The Mis-Adventures of an Awkward Black Girl, which is actually the basis of Issa Rae’s “Insecure”.
martel star
13. Your favorite web star (you can’t pick yourself)
– It’s a really tough split between Gary Lavard & Chris June. Gary has really built a major platform for himself & is utilizing it to the max, but he is still so humble. He has no ego to him & that’s so amazing. Chris June WORKS. I swear every time I look, he’s in a new project. Constantly working. Always growing. They both are the type indie creatives to emulate.
14. LGBTQIQA or straight? – Why are there so many letters?! I fit somewhere in the not straight spectrum. We’ll leave the rest to imagination.
15. Something you can’t live without – God! I know everything I have is because God saw fit to bless me with it.
16. Biggest pet peeve – Poor communication & moody/Wishy-washy attitudes.
17. Tell us something you’ve never told anyone – If I haven’t become successful after 5 years, I’m goin to become a male exotic dancer.
18. Age – I’m 30. But my stage age is 25.
19. Sign – Cancer
20. Quote to live by – “Talent is God given. Be humble. Fame is man-given. Be grateful. Conceit is self-given. Be careful.” -John Wooden - HeyMikeyATL
https://music.apple.com/us/album/show-off-feat-rahim-brazil-november-remix/1466438505?i=1466438513&app=itunes
Martel Star is a songwriter and rapper from Columbus, Ohio currently living in Atlanta, Georgia. Martel grew up in the church inspired and surrounded by music as a young child. He began writing music at 16 years old and he studied musical theater at Capital University ranging from pop, r&b and hip hop. Martel has continued to perfect his songwriting skills to obtain longevity in the music business.
In January 2012 he joined Columbus, Ohio based Empire Entertainment as a songwriter, where he shifted his talents to rapping with a “ratchet-pop” musical style, with him being the ultimate combination of the two.
Martel’s new EP, “Welcome To Emerald City” was released in Q1, 2018. He is ready to show the world who he is and what he can do, so stay tuned because there is more to come!
Listen to his latest release, “Show Off,” here now. If you enjoy the track, reach out to him on Instagram and show him some love. - RadioPlayToday
It is a new year and that means a new way of doing things here at HeyMikeyATL! There are millions of independent artists around the world, and a few thousand of them are right here in Atlanta. It is time we share their talent and lend our platform to their talent and the pursuit thereof. One of those artist is Martel Star–rapper, actor, and rising Web Star. You may be familiar with him from web series, 7th & Love, and Rahim Brazil’s Twisted.
Martel Star has now released a new music video for his single, Hungry, from his forthcoming album debuting the first quarter of this year and we have to say it awesome.
via Press Release
Hungry” is a rap cover remix, originally performed by Fergie. Martel adds his on ratchet-pop flair to the track & showcases his confident persona. In the dark video, Martel let’s his confidence shine, while letting the competition know that he’s here to stay. Both in bars & choreo, the competing rappers aren’t quite on the same level.
This is very well put together, shout out to Jamee Cornelia! Perhaps, we should hit him about a personal project! We have known Martel for a couple of years now and are really pleased to see things coming together for him. His style seems very Eminem meets 21 Savage! He is clearly stating he is one of the best and we are dying to see him become just that. What do you guys think of the Hungry music video? Sound off in our comments section below! - HeyMikeyATL
Discography
Genesis (Written By) - 2012
A Star Is Born - 2013
Welcome To Emerald City - 2018
Emerald City: The Starmixes - 2019
Wicked: - (upcoming) - 2022
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Bio
Martel Star is a songwriter and rapper from Columbus, Ohio currently living in Atlanta, Georgia. Martel Star he grew up in the church, inspired and surrounded by music as a young child. He began writing music at 16 years old & he studied musical theater at Capital University. Martel continued he studies of music & honed his craft, ranging from pop, r&b and hip hop. For the past 10 years he has continued to perfect his songwriting skills to obtain longevity in the music business.
In January 2012 he joined Columbus, Ohio based Empire Entertainment as a songwriter, released his 1st songwriting project for Empire Entertainment artist Kei Mari on her mixtape "Genesis".
In 2012 Martel also shifted his talents to rapping, with a “ratchet-pop” musical style, having him being the ultimate combination of the two. His first mixtape as an artist, “A Star is Born” was released in 2013!
Taking the time to perfect his craft & Martel has continually released new music & performed around Atlanta leading to the release of his EP "Welcome To Emerald City" in 2018. Martel is currently preparing for the release of his next mixtape project "Emerald City: The Starmixes" & will be releasing new original music at the end of 2019.
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