Hailing from Virginia (USA), Marcoof500 is an up-and-coming hip-hop artist and entrepreneur paving his own way to the top, through an honest mix of precise bars and slick production. Inspired by the likes of Lil JoJo, Tay Sav and PBG, the young rapper has been an emerging name in the underground game for some time now. Starting out as CEO of his own label, ‘500 Entertainment LLC’ (500 Cartel) Marco is steadily on the rise following a string of successful, well-received releases.
What made you go into music?
I initially had no thoughts of music at all until after highschool. I was really big into sports, my cousin was the artist. I ended up wanting to pursue music to help my cousin get his talent out there, but didn;t end up working the way I thought so I took a leap of faith and ended up falling in love with this music.
How are you living this uncertain days due to the COVID-19?
During these uncertain days I’m still living. You can do two things in this situation right now, which is to live to die or die to live. I feel like I need to take full advantage of this situation. COVID-19 has made me more humble and actually made me more creative in the process.
Are you a signed?
Yes, I am signed to myself as the CEO of 500 Entertainment LLC.
Tell us a little bit more about your music project and in particular your latest EP “Durag Bandit”.
Durag Bandit was originally supposed to be dropped in June, based off the up beat tempo I had intended for the EP. Due to COVID-19 and the tragic brutality of the police I decided to postpone the EP until a later time. Durag Bandit is based off of what some would consider everyday life. As you listen to Durag Bandit I have put some songs in there that are actually connected to other songs within the EP. I made it that way so that the EP would have a storyline to it without seeming like one novel.
Are you doing any live streaming performances during the COVID-19 pandemic?
I haven’t been doing any live streaming performances during COVID-19, but i do intend on doing them to stay connected to members of the cartel.
What else can we expect in 2020?
In 2020 you can expect more singles to drop throughout the year not set dates as of yet. I will be releasing music videos to Durag Bandit when it drops as well as live performances on platforms such as instagram @Marcooof500. I will also be doing vlogs on youtube to give fans a behind the scene of my life as an artist.
Who are your influences?
Many artists ranging from Lil JoJo and Young Pappy in my earlier years, to Blac Youngsta, Yo Gotti, Lud Foe, Waka Flocka Flame, and Boosie Badazz.
How do you get inspiration to compose your music?
The inspiration comes from the life that is happening around me. What’s going on in the world and inspiration from other artist.
Where do you see yourself now in 5 Years?
In 5 years from now I see myself putting the next big artist, producer, graphic designer, videographer on and just building my company to be that one that can help others achieve in making their dreams a reality.
When you’re not doing music, what do you do?
When I’m not doing music I’m reading, working out, playing the game, socializing and just seeing life for what it is and taking advantage of my 24 hour days.
What was the song you listened to most that influenced you to go more into the music scene?
Gang Gang by Moneybagg Yo (Feat Blac Youngsta) it was all about the energy they gave and I knew i had that same energy to give out.
What’s the best advice you have ever been given?
It’s not the end of the world.
What advice would you give to aspiring musicians not about the industry and just as an artist?
I would tell them to invest in themselves. Ensure that they work on their brand and be authentic to themselves.
What quote or saying do you always stick by?
“500 Cartel Can’t You Tell?” meaning that i’m always sticking by 500 when i speak or walk into an environment I’m the guy you know is gonna keep it 500 with you.
Where in your hometown is a must go to visit?
Culture Lounge.
Your coming off tour;
1/ Where do you go first?
I’m going home.
2/ Who do you see first?
My mother.
3/What do you eat first?
Grill Cheese Sandwhich.
When you are at a gig, what are 5 things you cannot forget?
The Glock; Cologne; Cellphone; A change of clothes; Slides.
Do you have social media accounts so your fans can follow you?
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Marcoof500/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/marcoof500
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/OfficialMarcoof500
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCPtWgTPJrszsjXaRo3PeXpw
Natalia is a Rap and Hip Hop enthusiast. After graduating from The New School of New York’s Public Relations Program and taking a course in Journalism at Michigan State University, she decided to dedicate her life to the music publishing business and to the discovery of new talent. She helps new artists gain exposure to the masses via online marketing and publications.
