MoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs #461: “INK” Atia Boggs
MoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs
Atia Boggs, better known as INK, is a Grammy-nominated American singer, songwriter, guitarist, and producer. Born in Columbus, Georgia, INK has significantly contributed to the music industry, particularly in R&B, soul, and hip-hop. She has collaborated with prominent artists such as Chris Brown, Justin Bieber, Monica, and Beyoncé. INK’s career highlights include songwriting and production credits on numerous hit songs. Notable works include “Suga” by Monica, “Very Best” by Rick Ross featuring Mary J. Blige, and “Melanin Magic” by Remy Ma featuring Chris Brown. She also...
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MoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs #460: Isiah “POP” Pacheco
MoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs
Isiah “Pop” Pacheco, born on March 2, 1999, in Vineland, New Jersey, is an American professional football running back for the Kansas City Chiefs in the National Football League (NFL). He is of Puerto Rican descent on his father’s side and African-American descent on his mother’s side. Pacheco’s football journey began at Vineland High School, where he played quarterback and running back. He later committed to Rutgers University, playing for the Scarlet Knights from 2018 to 2021. During his collegiate career, he amassed 2,442 rushing yards and 18 touchdowns. In the 2022 NFL Draft,...
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MoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs #459: Aron Stevens (Damien Sandow)
MoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs
Aron Steven Haddad, born on August 3, 1982, in Worcester, Massachusetts, is an American professional wrestler and actor, perhaps better known by his ring name, Damien Sandow. Haddad's professional wrestling journey began in 2001, where he wrestled under the name Aaron Stevens. From 2003 to 2006, he developed his skills in WWE's developmental territory, Ohio Valley Wrestling or OVW. In 2006, he debuted on WWE’s main roster as Idol Stevens, forming a tag team with KC James and aligning with Michelle McCool. However, it was in 2012 that he was reintroduced as Damien Sandow, an "Intellectual...
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MoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs #458: Steve Wilson
MoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs
Steve Wilson is a prominent American entrepreneur and art collector, best known as the co-founder of the 21c Museum Hotels. This unique boutique hotel chain seamlessly integrates contemporary art into its design and experience, creating a one-of-a-kind cultural and hospitality destination. Born in Louisville, Kentucky, Steve Wilson’s background in business and art has significantly shaped his professional endeavors. In 2006, he and his wife, Laura Lee Brown, established the first 21c Museum Hotel in Louisville. The concept was groundbreaking: a boutique hotel combined with a contemporary art...
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MoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs #457: Griffin Johnson
MoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs
Griffin Johnson, born on January 13, 1999, in Paris, Illinois, is a well-known American social media influencer, actor, and entrepreneur. He first gained widespread recognition through his engaging content on platforms like TikTok, where his comedic sketches, lip-syncs, and dance videos have attracted millions of followers. Raised in Paris, Illinois, Griffin grew up alongside his younger brother, Graham Johnson. He attended high school in his hometown before enrolling at Illinois State University, where he pursued a nursing program. During his time at the university, Griffin was a member of...
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MoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs #456: Kyle Rudolph
MoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs
Kyle Rudolph, born on November 9, 1989, in Cincinnati, Ohio, is a retired professional American football player who made his mark as a tight end in the National Football League (NFL). Renowned for his size, athleticism, and pass-catching ability, Rudolph enjoyed a successful career, primarily with the Minnesota Vikings, where he earned two Pro Bowl selections and became a key figure in the league. Growing up in Cincinnati, Ohio, Rudolph attended Elder High School, where he excelled in both football and basketball. As a football player, he was a dominant tight end, celebrated for his receiving...
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MoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs #455: John Schneider
MoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs
John Schneider, born on April 8, 1960, in Mount Kisco, New York, is an American actor, country music singer, and filmmaker. He is best known for his iconic role as Bo Duke in the hit television series The Dukes of Hazzard, which aired from 1979 to 1985. Schneider has had a multifaceted career spanning acting, music, directing, and philanthropy. Early Life and Background Family and Upbringing: Schneider grew up in a musical and artistic household with his mother, Shirley, who ran a performing arts school, and his father, John, a pilot. He displayed a knack for...
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MoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs #454: Sennie “Skip” Martin
MoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs
Sennie “Skip” Martin, born on June 25, 1957, in San Francisco, California, is a distinguished American musician celebrated for his roles as a lead vocalist and trumpeter. He is best known for his tenure with prominent funk and R&B bands, notably Kool & the Gang and the Dazz Band. Early Life and Musical Beginnings: Martin’s passion for music ignited at the age of eleven when he began learning the trumpet. His dedication led to him being honored as the “Outstanding Trumpet Soloist” at the Monterey Jazz Festival during his high school years. Career...
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MoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs #453: Bob Guiney
MoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs
Bob Guiney, born on May 8, 1971, in Riverview, Michigan, is an American television personality and host who gained national recognition through his appearances on reality TV dating shows and has since built a diverse career in entertainment. Early Life and Education: Guiney graduated from Riverview Community High School in 1989. He then attended Michigan State University, where he graduated in 1993. During his time at MSU, he was a member of the Alpha Tau Omega fraternity and served as a walk-on quarterback for the university’s football team. Music Career: Before his television fame, Guiney...
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MoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs #452: Joey Mulinaro
MoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs
Joey Mulinaro, born on August 28, 1993, is an American comedian and impressionist from Indianapolis, Indiana. He gained prominence through his spot-on impersonations of sports figures and celebrities, which he shares across various social media platforms. Early Life and Education: Mulinaro attended the University of Indianapolis, where he majored in communication. During his time there, he was actively involved with WICR, the university’s radio station, serving as sports director and later as operations manager. His involvement in college media provided him with a solid foundation...
info_outlineMarc Martel, born on November 16, 1976, in Montreal, Quebec, Canada, is a renowned singer, musician, and songwriter.
He is best known for his remarkable vocal resemblance to the late Freddie Mercury of Queen, which has earned him global recognition.
Martel’s talent and career span various musical projects, from his work in the Christian rock band Downhere to his role in recreating Mercury’s iconic vocals for Queen-related projects.
Early Life and Musical Beginnings
Background:
Marc Martel grew up in a Christian family in Montreal, where his father was a pastor.
He showed an early interest in music, learning piano and later developing his vocal talent.
Education:
Martel attended Briercrest College and Seminary in Saskatchewan, where he met his future bandmates and began his professional musical journey.
Career Highlights:
1. Downhere (1999–2012)
Martel co-founded Downhere, a Christian rock band, with college friends in 1999.
The band gained popularity in the Christian music scene, releasing multiple albums and winning several awards, including:
Dove Awards for Rock/Contemporary Album of the Year and Rock Recorded Song of the Year.
After more than a decade of success, the band went on hiatus in 2012.
2. The Queen Extravaganza (2011–2017)
In 2011, Martel auditioned for The Queen Extravaganza, a tribute project organized by Queen’s drummer, Roger Taylor.
His audition video, where he sang “Somebody to Love,” went viral, amassing millions of views and earning him the role of lead vocalist.
Martel toured globally with The Queen Extravaganza, gaining acclaim for his uncanny ability to channel Freddie Mercury’s voice.
3. The Ultimate Queen Celebration (2017–Present)
Following his time with The Queen Extravaganza, Martel launched his own Queen tribute show, The Ultimate Queen Celebration, where he continues to perform Queen’s greatest hits.
4. Contribution to Bohemian Rhapsody (2018)
Martel’s voice was used alongside archival recordings of Freddie Mercury to recreate Mercury’s vocals in the Oscar-winning biopic Bohemian Rhapsody.
This contribution solidified Martel’s reputation as one of the most authentic interpreters of Mercury’s voice.
5. Solo Career
Martel has released solo albums showcasing his range as an artist beyond Queen tributes, including:
Impersonator (2014)
The Silent Night EP (2016)
Thunderbolt and Lightning (2018), a Queen cover album.
Musical Style and Legacy
Vocal Talent:
Martel’s voice is frequently compared to Freddie Mercury’s due to its range, power, and tone.
He is known for effortlessly transitioning between genres, blending rock, classical, and contemporary styles.
Versatility:
While much of his fame is tied to his work with Queen’s music, Martel has demonstrated a broader range through his original compositions and Christian music background.
Personal Life
Faith and Values:
Martel remains deeply connected to his Christian faith, which influences his personal and professional life.
Family:
He is married to Crystal Koster, and the couple resides in Nashville, Tennessee.
Awards and Recognition
Dove Awards with Downhere.
Global acclaim for his role in Queen tribute projects and Bohemian Rhapsody.
Recognition for his viral audition video, which remains a defining moment in his career.
Legacy
Marc Martel has carved a unique niche in the music world by bridging the gap between tribute performances and original artistry. His ability to channel Freddie Mercury’s legendary voice while maintaining his individuality has made him a standout figure in both rock and Christian music scenes. Martel’s contributions to preserving Queen’s legacy, coupled with his impressive solo work, continue to captivate audiences worldwide.