An Interview With ‘Seven Threat’ Musician, DOM MARCELL!

Multi-faceted independent recording artist Dom Marcell brings back nostalgia-tapping sensuous lyrics and sonic motifs, expanding the framework of pop songwriting and production. Born Dominique Marcell Collins on the island of Puerto Rico and raised in New Orleans, pop/R&B artist, Dom Marcell, also known as the “Seven Threat” (Singer/ Songwriter/ Actor/ Dancer/ Screenwriter/ Director/ Businessman), became enamored with music at the young age of three.

His newest singles “DTK,” “I Do,” and “That’s What’s Up” could best be described as fun, dance-pop productions complete with catchy beats and dulcet vocals. “Dirty Laundry” is a masterfully produced, captivating tune replete with intoxicating melodies and powerful songwriting that enraptures the senses. “Church Night” is a smooth, soulful, sultry, uptempo bedroom anthem that reflects on the experience of spiritual sex with racy lyrics such as “you take me to Church calling out for Jesus.” His album, U-Nique Destiny ends with the passionate ballad “Dreams” displaying his softer side with his poetic and emotive songwriting perfectly complimented by ethereal female vocals. Eloquently fusing together contemporary R&B, pop, hip-hop, and dance music, on U-Nique Destiny Dom shares his unique, signature sound and relentless passion. From Wall Street investment banker to the recording studio, Dom Marcell is an artist for today’s generation whose unwavering talent and keen business sense will undoubtedly help him rise to the top.

CONNECT With Dom Marcell Here:

Youtube:  www.youtube.com/c/dommarcell  
Facebook:  www.facebook.com/dommarcell
Instagram:  www.instagram.com/dommarcell
Website: www.dommarcellmusic.com
Soundcloud:  www.soundcloud.com/dommarcell
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/domcollins15 

Learn more about Dom Marcell in the following All Access interview:

Where does this interview find you?

I am currently in promote mode, pushing my album out to my followings on Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram and Twitter. I recently just launched my album on Bandcamp, a platform that makes it easier for your fans to contribute to your movement. So far so good!

Now that we are into the 4th month of the new year, how has 2019 been treating you so far? What are some goals that you have for yourself this year? How are those New Years Resolutions going?

My goal is to continue to perform, bring on a music manager (in talks with a few currently), and continue to inspire the world via my music, posts and/or speaking engagements. My goal was to hit certain milestones before I engaged in those discussions. 2019 has been going well, there were a couple of bumps in the road at the end of 2018 but I’m hitting my stride again in 2019. 

I am writing and collaborating for the next project. So more music!

Growing up, how important was music in your life? Can you recall the moment when you decided that you wanted to be a musician? Was it an easy or difficult choice to make?

I grew up singing in church. Loved all types of music but could only listen to gospel music. Sometimes I would sneak to friends’ or cousins’ homes and listen to secular music but that’s how I was raised.  In high school, once I received a lot of good feedback for my performance of Usher’s “U Got It Bad”, that’s when I knew I should probably try things out in Los Angeles concurrent to my undergraduate studies at USC.

Was there ever a time when you thought about doing something else? If you weren’t a musician today, what else could you see yourself doing? Would you be as fulfilled in life?

I could see myself starting a consulting practice and educating other entrepreneurs or aspiring singers/songwriters about business. I love sharing knowledge and teaching people the lessons I’ve learned.

What has been the biggest surprise so far about making music your career? What has been an unexpected or welcome challenge to it all?

The biggest surprise has been that you should never be too comfortable. While you may hit certain milestones, that may or may not matter to certain people. One must always keep reaching for the next accomplishment, continue to be better, and not be complacent.

I am curious to know how your time working on Wall Street has influenced the kind of musician that you are today? Do you ever regret that part of your life?

I learned so much working on the Street – the lessons learned have helped me get to where I am today. I always want to be the artist who can wear both hats- creative and business.  They are so intertwined that it’s important to approach music in that way. When I create music or make statements via social media, I always have to make sure that it’s consistent with the brand I hope to continue to build. 

Let’s talk about your recently released album, “U-Nique Destiny.” What did it feel like putting this collection out? How did you celebrate the release of it? What was the inspiration for these songs?

It felt like a school project that took a while to set up and launch. Leading up to it, I did many performances, press interviews, music videos and here it is! Currently, I’m planning shows to celebrate the release.

I really wanted people to have a good time – the mood of the album is fun and upbeat. Music has been extremely powerful for me during tough times, so I wanted to give back to people who may be experiencing some hardship. 

Did anything surprise you about the overall process of putting together this new album? Were there any unexpected challenges? What was it like working with your producer Mantra?

Yes, the main challenge was overcoming writer’s block at times since I wrote and arranged the entire project. In addition, narrowing down the tracklist took a while. There were quite a few times that I thought I was finished but wanted to keep recording.  Those are probably the most difficult challenges. 

I didn’t formally meet Mantra, but I’ve communicated with him via email quite a few times.  He loves the work and has been very supportive. I love his vibe. I also worked with other producers like Swagetti who did one of my favorite songs I wrote, D.T.K.

How do you think you have grown as a musician since you first started singing and writing songs?

I have grown by improving my vocal range, using proper vocal technique and arranging harmonies. This is thanks to working with an experienced vocal coach who brings the best out of you.

What has it been like keeping up with your social media accounts and all of the different platforms? Is it hard to stay up to date on it all? What would you say is your favorite way to connect with your fans now?

It can get very challenging because you don’t want to just copy and paste to all platforms. You want to give someone a reason to follow you on all platforms. My favorite is honestly LinkedIn. It kind of combines the best of all worlds from Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram. Many people think it’s just about jobs, it’s not surprising.  Many people tell their stories there in very unique ways such as articles, videos, short long-form posts, etc. It’s a great storytelling platform.  

Who are some of your favorite artists or rather, what musicians have continued to inspire you and your music? Who would you absolutely still love to work with in the future?

Kirk Franklin is a prolific gospel singer/songwriter/composer. His songs have gotten me through difficult times. I would love to do a song with him. His song “Imagine Me” is probably one of the most powerful and my favorite songs.

As far as contemporary artists I would love to collaborate with Bruno Mars, Usher, Justin Timberlake, Adele, Rihanna, and Beyonce.

Where can people see you perform live next?

I’ve done shows in New York and LA and performed in my hometown in New Orleans on TV and for Essence Fest.  I’m really trying to do to Chicago because I have a big network there since I graduated from Northwestern law and business schools. People have been asking so I’m figuring it out! The undergrad is excited – I have an upcoming feature in their newspaper. The University itself has been supportive as well.  So I hope to do a show as a thank you.

If you had an unlimited budget and your schedule was free, what would your dream music video look like?

My dream music video would be hitting up all the places where I’ve lived (Los Angeles, Chicago, Puerto Rico, New York, New Orleans) and do scenes representative of each city- telling a story of my life. All while having a good time – with choreography. 

If your music was going to be featured on any TV show that is currently on right now, which would you love it to be on? Or if you prefer, what is a movie that you love that you wish your music was featured in?

I wouldn’t say any movie in particular but from a genre perspective, romantic comedies. I would say my songs fit well with those type of films.

At the end of the day, what do you hope people take away from your music?

I hope my music and story will make clear that it’s never too late to breathe life into a passion/dream. Just go for it. You never know what could happen.

Would you like to share anything else with our readers about your music?

The music is an introduction to who I am as an artist – combining both old school and new. I love throwback with a modern twist. You will hear that with this. Hope you enjoy.