Episode Summary: In this insightful and uplifting episode, host James Cox sits down with UK-based electronic artist MarQ Electronica (aka Mark Dickinson) for an open conversation about music’s healing power, battling depression, and creating during turbulent times. MarQ Electronica discusses his journey from band life to solo artistry, the nuances of electronic music, his creative rituals, and offers practical advice for aspiring musicians. The episode is filled with stories about musical discovery, cross-genre appreciation, and how music communities support one another through tough times.

Key Topics:

• Mental Health & Music:
• James opens with a message about the importance of mental health and introduces the episode’s sponsor, BetterHelp. Both James and MarQ Electronica reflect on how music is vital in facing life’s ups and downs.

• MarQ Electronica’s Story:
• From playing in bands to launching a solo career during the pandemic.
• The origins and meaning behind the artist name "MarQ Electronica".
• Growing up in Teesside and now living in Newcastle, England.

• UK Music Scene:
• The vibrant and diverse genres appreciated in the northeast of England — from metal to grime, house, and dance.
• Experiences performing at multi-genre venues and the inclusive spirit of UK audiences.

• Electronica vs. EDM:
• MarQ Electronica explains the differences, creative process, and the emotional depth that electronica brings to modern electronic music.

• Songwriting & Inspiration:
• Using personal and political struggles as songwriting fuel.
• The origin of his album Savage Times and single "Next to Nothing," focused on the challenges of the cost-of-living crisis.
• Balancing heavy lyrical themes with uplifting, danceable beats.

• Navigating COVID as a Musician:
• The challenges of lockdown, caring for family, and keeping creativity alive.
• Transitioning to virtual performances and leveraging platforms like TikTok.

• Creative Rituals:
• Insights into MarQ Electronica’s studio set-up, workflow, favorite creative snacks and drinks, and his process for building tracks from sample packs.

• Musical Influences:
• Love for late-80s/90s dance, acid house, R&B, and artists like Janet Jackson, Eurythmics, Brand New Heavies, Human League, and Goldfrapp.
• The importance of keeping an open mind and exploring genres outside your comfort zone.

• Charity Projects:
• Involvement with Musicians Against Homelessness, collaborating with local artists and contributing to charity compilation albums.

• Fun Questions & Rapid Fire:
• Dream festival experiences.
• Karaoke favorites ("Don’t You Want Me" by Human League).
• Music snobbery and promoting inclusivity in the music community.
• Vinyl vs. streaming, favorite beverages, and musical pet peeves.

• Upcoming Releases & How to Connect:
• MarQ Electronica teases upcoming music blending deep house, trip-hop, and grime influences, and invites listeners to follow him for new releases.

Resources & Links:

• BetterHelp Offer: Get 10% off your first month: BetterHelp.com/MusicSpeaks
• MarQ Electronica’s Music & Links:
• Website: marqelectronica.com
• SongWhip: Search "SongWhip MarQelectronica" for all streaming platforms
• Linktree: "linktr.ee/marqelectronica" for all media and socials

Listener Takeaways:

• Keep an open mind to new genres—you never know what will resonate!
• Music and mental health go hand-in-hand; don’t be afraid to seek help or express yourself through art.
• Community and collaboration are key in music, especially during hard times.
• Support independent artists by purchasing music directly when you can.

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Remember: When words fail, music speaks.