Multi-talented vocalist, producer, and songwriter, MkX is rapidly rising as a fresh, innovative, pop trendsetter. Combining electronica, hip-hop, future bass, and trap, along with dynamic and infectious songwriting, the Boston based artist has developed a massive buzz around the three tracks he’s dropped since summer last year.
“I wanted to write a song that reflected what I was going through and that I know everyone who listens has gone through at one point or another,” says MkX, who is currently studying electronic production and sound design at the famed Berklee College of Music. “I’m really into creating records that have a unique level of detail and cleverness in the wordplay, but keep them a bit vague so that everyone can connect with them on a personal level. As a longtime pop super fan myself, I know how important it is as a listener to be able to connect with what the artist is saying. Lyrically, the song is like an inner-monologue of overanalyzing and being a bit paranoid. It’s a balance between something that’s not the most fun thing people deal with in everyday life, and an anthem quality that makes it engaging, like hey, we’re all going through this so we can vibe on it together.”
Before breaking out as a solo artist, MkX toured as the opening act for Ariana Grande, and has also supported Christina Perri. A popular live performer since the age of 9, he laid the foundation for his current releases with over 300 shows nationwide, many as an opening act for Top 40 artists. The venues he’s played include the Whisky A Go Go and The Roxy in West Hollywood, CMJ Music Festival, El Rey Theatre in Los Angeles, Times Square and Lincoln Center in New York City, and House of Blues and Hard Rock cafes nationwide. MkX has built a strong following in Las Vegas by performing at Mandalay Bay, and he was also on the production crew of Britney Spears’ Vegas residency, apprenticing under the musical director.
‘One Sided Love’, his latest track, was released earlier this month, and was both written and produced by MkX. He teamed up for a remix with DJ Mike D, known for his work with Beyoncé, Adele, and Ariana Grande, and the video was shot by Matt Alonso, who’s worked with Pitbull, Odd Future, The Game, and Justin Timberlake.
“The ‘X’ in my name represents self-expression through art,” the singer adds. “I used to be very self-conscious of what people thought of me. It affected how I acted, wrote music, and lived my life. I decided to create a character that embodied everything I wanted to be as a person. From auditory/visual art and fashion to attitude and confidence, I developed a persona that represented the best version of myself. After a lot of work and self-discovery, I eventually became the person that I wanted to be. I want people to use my music to bring out their inner confidence. I want my music to change the way people carry themselves. I want them to feel like a badass as they walk down the street with my song playing through their headphones. I want to make people the best them they can be with my art.”
The video shows MkX getting very energetic in a warehouse space, with some animation elements and occasionally dancers joining him. It’s got a very 90s feel, enhanced by the boyband style dancers, and the track itself is very catchy with MkX’s vocals soft and smooth.
You can find out more about MkX online on his official website, Facebook, and Instagram.
