Turning 4ourty Thre3 & Stepping Into The Sun
- MIDIMarcum
- 2 hours ago
- 4 min read
Creating music has always been a part of my life, but this release marks a new chapter. At 43, I am stepping forward as my complete creative self—producing, singing, rapping, and writing. This EP is not just another birthday release; it is a declaration of growth, confidence, and purpose. It reflects who I am today and why I create.
Showing Up Fully as an Artist
For years, I have worn many hats in music. I produce tracks, write lyrics, sing melodies, and rap verses. Yet, I often felt like I was holding back parts of myself. This EP is the first time I am sharing all these facets together. It’s a bold step to stop hiding the growth and stand fully in the light, rooted in my purpose and ability.
This project is a reflection of my journey—one that embraces every skill and passion I have developed. It’s about being authentic and honest with my audience. I want listeners to experience the full spectrum of my creativity, not just a single side.
Why Now at 4ourty Thre3?
Age brings clarity. At 43, I know exactly who I am and why I create music. This EP is a product of that clarity. It’s not about chasing trends or fitting into a mold. Instead, it’s about sending out songs with intention, trusting they will reach the people who need them most.
This confidence comes from years of learning and evolving. I have grown as an artist and as a person. Now, I am ready to share that growth openly.
The EP: A Blend of Originals and Covers
The EP includes two original songs and three covers. Each track was approached with respect, curiosity, and truth. My style of covering music is not about erasing the original. Instead, I reimagine the songs, offering a fresh point of view while honoring the source.
This approach allows me to connect deeply with the music and bring something new to listeners. It’s a way to celebrate the songs that have inspired me while making them my own.
1. Time It Ain’t Real
(Original)
This collaboration with multi-disciplined artist Cappy Phalen began casually—she was sharing some of her favorite music, and the guitars on one song immediately pulled me in. Around the same time, we were laughing about the way she once said “Time isn’t real” during a Kilo Hotel photoshoot. It was funny—but the idea had layers.
Those layers led me into processing grief and absence, specifically missing the physical presence of my grandmother Birdie and my father Herman, who was given the nickname Corey while serving in the Air Force during Vietnam.The song explores time, faith, and the belief that our loved ones who’ve passed aren’t gone—they simply occupy a different place now.
2. Cupid
(Sam Cooke cover)
One of my favorite Sam Cooke songs, approached with deep reverence.This version is reimagined vocally in the spirit of Al Green, blending warmth, vulnerability, and restraint—letting the emotion do the heavy lifting.
3. Hello It’s Me
(Todd Rundgren cover)
This cover imagines The Dungeon Family in the studio with Todd Rundgren.It’s soulful, slightly left, and rooted in Hip-Hop sensibility—where genre lines blur and feeling leads the arrangement.
4. Show No Love
(Erykah Badu cover)
This version began with the beat. While producing, I was listening to Stevie Wonder, and something about the lyrics felt like “Don’t You Worry ’Bout a Thing” was God speaking directly to me—“Son, I got you.”
As I kept looping the track, the demo and key brought my favorite Erykah Badu song to mind—and it fit immediately. I turned on the mic and sang the lyrics from memory. One of those moments where the song chooses you.
5. Gone To Carolina
(Original)
Through Hip-Hop and sampling, I’ve become a fan of artists and genres I never planned on loving—but this song was always aligned with home. I may travel the world, but South Carolina is where my heart resets.
I sent a raw version to my homie Jebb Mac, who laid down the perfect guitar. That became the foundation for me and Camo Collins to express that hometown love—nostalgia, pride, and belonging all in one breath.
The Creative Process Behind the EP
Producing, writing, singing, and rapping all require different mindsets and skills. Balancing these roles was challenging but rewarding. Here’s how I approached it:
Producing: I crafted beats and arrangements that support the mood and message of each song.
Writing: Lyrics came from personal experiences and reflections, aiming for honesty and connection.
Singing and Rapping: I used my voice to express different emotions, blending melody and rhythm naturally.
This process took time and patience. I allowed myself to experiment and learn without pressure. The result is a project that feels true to who I am.
What This Release Means to Me
Releasing this EP is more than sharing music. It’s a milestone in my creative journey. It represents:
Growth: Embracing all parts of my artistry without fear.
Purpose: Creating with intention and meaning.
Confidence: Standing in my abilities and sharing them openly.
I hope this project inspires others to embrace their full creative selves, no matter their age or background.
Looking Ahead
This EP is just the beginning. I plan to continue exploring and expanding my creative expression. Music is a lifelong journey, and I am excited to see where it leads next.
If you connect with these songs, I encourage you to share your thoughts and stories. Music is a conversation, and I want to hear from you.
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