Interview with Paul Marz - Death of a Star, Rise of a Titan
Why did you make this album?
As an artist, I'm always on journey to learn more. When I create a project, my goal is to discover more about myself in order to share those discoveries and schools of thought with others. I created this album to share what I have learned about life, finding yourself and the game in general with fellow artists, friends and fans. Also as a tool for inspiration to push forward through the face of adversity and attain your destiny.
What inspired the title 'Death of a Star Rise of a Titan'?
Death of a Star in this case is the death of your ego. Rise of a Titan is your end result when the "star" or "ego" dies. Often we see artists who love music and put their heart & soul into it when they start, only to get blinded by the bright lights and lose sight of their original goals and dreams. This occurs most often when artists start to see some money and fame. Those ego driven goals lead you on a path to death. It's either you kill the ego and rise, or follow it to your demise. Coupled with this concept is contemplating actual death. Death of friends and family can be traumatizing. During the two years it took to create this album I attended 8 funerals. It wasn't part of the original concept, but as time went on, I saw those lost loved ones as "stars" on earth in my life, but now "titans" watching over us. So there are two sides to the album, on the surface I am addressing artists, dreamers etc. Encouraging them to hold steadfast to their goals & beliefs. Simultaneously, I address the hardships that come with losing loved ones. This is the inspiration behind the album.
If you could do remix to one song on the album and anyone as your guest feature, what song what it would be and who would you have on it?
I think it would be cool to have Styles P on "Sleep Paralysis" & have him tell his own ghost story.
Who helped make this album what it is? Writers, Producers, Muses, Support System, Etc
There are a number of people I am very grateful to that helped make this project possible.
Major shout to J. Glaze, this album wouldn't be possible without him. The guy is a master of translating ideas into sounds.
Dave Noodlez, the most supportive person I've ever met. Besides helping on all levels of management, that's the guy I would send the tracks to right after I finished them for feedback. His constructive criticism helped me bring the project up to its full potential.
What is your favorite track? Why?
My favorite track is the final track "Rise of a Titan". It's my favorite because I feel like I was able to accurately sum up how I felt in conclusion after looking back on the album. Also, I feel the same excitement every time I perform it live.
What is your goal as an artist?
At this point in my career, my goal as an artist is to really build a solid foundation in my community that will continue to harbor and cultivate the skills of other young artists. When I started, I had a long list of goals. I have checked many of those things off my list. It gives me great joy to show other artists the way to cross items off their lists quicker.
When did you know you wanted to make music?
I think by the time I was about 17 or 18, I was pretty sure that I could do this.
What is your dream now that you just accomplished this dream?Have you ever been Stereotype'd? Tell us more
My next dream is to write a book. I have a grand idea, but won't be revealing it just yet.
Certainly not a stranger to being stereotyped. It's something I'm beyond used to, that's why I wear that logo everyday. I could probably write another book just about that.
Have you ever broke a Stereotype someone had of you? Tell us about it
The Coptic Egyptian community is a small tight nit community, you're supposed to be either a Dr., Lawyer, Pharmacist etc. or you're exiled. EVERYONE told me I would fail if I pursued music. People in the community would pull me to the side and ask me "What are you doing with your life? You have to do something serious." It was very difficult to gain the courage to break that mold and pursue my passion rather than taking the stereotypical route because I was pressured into it. I didn't want to live with the regret of not pursuing my dreams. Looking back, I'm glad I made the right choice.