"I think there is a lot of good music that is being made nowadays, that being said, what is popular is definitely lacking soul so to speak and that is what I miss most. My hope is that we will elevate real people, playing real instruments, making music with real substance. I am afraid of the potential of AI generated music and where things are going with technology, however I do think there is no replacement for the real thing and people will be able to recognize that."

Marcus Trummer: Young Blood, Old Soul

A young blood with an old soul, Canadian musician Marcus Trummer marries modern sensibilities with tradition in his distinctive style that encompasses blues, soul, and rock. Dubbed “a precocious guitarist whose vocals possess a wise-beyond-his-years weariness” by the Calgary Herald, the Calgary-born artist is already earning recognition. In 2022, Trummer snagged a nomination for "New Artist of the Year" at the Maple Blues Awards in Toronto. The following year he traveled to Colorado to perform as a finalist in the 2023 Telluride Blues Challenge, which he would go on to win. Marcus Trummer’s music draws inspiration from the timeless sounds of the 60s and 70s. With his warm and emotive vocals, Trummer pays respect to classic soul singers like Bill Withers and Al Green.

(Marcus Trummer / Photo by Heather Saitz)

His expressive guitar work channels the impassioned approach of players like B.B. King and Jimi Hendrix. Packed with raw emotion and honesty, Trummer’s songwriting is not to be overlooked. His thoughtful lyrics examine universal subjects of love and coming of age, unpacking experiences that resonate with all listeners. Canadian blues, soul, and rock guitarist and singer-songwriter Marcus Trummer released his new upbeat, groove-driven single “Let You Down” (2024) by Gypsy Soul Records. “Let You Down” is the first single taken from Trummer’s debut album to be released in November.

Interview by Michael Limnios                       Special Thanks: Renan Yildizdogan

How has Blues/Soul/Rock influenced your views of the world? How does music affect your mood and inspiration?

Blues music and the styles of music that evolved out of it have shaped who I am as a person in many ways. Through being a student of a genre with such deep and pure roots, I have come to value authenticity and depth in all aspects of life. This music brings me peace as it takes me back to a world where things were simpler, before all of the complexity of these modern digital times.

How do you describe your sound, music philosophy and songbook? Where does your creative drive come from?

My sound marries modern sensibilities with tradition and is focused primarily on combining blues and soul. Though it is influenced by the entirety of music deriving from blues and the American south including, gospel, jazz, R&B, funk, and southern rock. In terms of musical philosophy, I believe in listening to all types of music with an open mind. I don’t limit myself when creating either, when I’m writing I welcome whatever direction I happen to intuitively go in without judgment. I’m not totally sure where my creativity comes from. I think there is something special about creativity, it’s hard to describe. I think it’s just something I have to do. When I get hit with motivation to create, I sit down with my guitar and it just comes together. The only way I can rationalize it is that it must be a force coming from a higher power.

"Blues music and the styles of music that evolved out of it have shaped who I am as a person in many ways. Through being a student of a genre with such deep and pure roots, I have come to value authenticity and depth in all aspects of life. This music brings me peace as it takes me back to a world where things were simpler, before all of the complexity of these modern digital times." (Marcus Trummer,  a young blood with an old soul, marries modern sensibilities with tradition in his distinctive style that encompasses blues, soul, and rock / Photo by Heather Saitz)

Why do you think that the Blues/Rock scene continues to generate such a devoted following in Canada?

Blues and rock are timeless sounding genres that people of all ages can relate to and enjoy. With Canada being so closely tied to American culture, I think these genres will always have a strong following here because of the deep history they have.

What moment changed your music life the most? What's been the highlights in your life and career so far?

I can't say there’s a single moment that changed my life the most, but probably the period that was the most important for me was during the Covid pandemic from 2020-2022. That time led to a lot of introspection as a result of isolation and the timing of it happening right after finishing high school. Those years led me to decide to pursue music professionally and that’s when a lot of the songs on my upcoming album were written. One of the highlights of my life was around that time when I decided to take a solo road trip through the United States for a couple of months. I visited a lot of the places where my musical heroes are from, New Orleans, Memphis, and Austin to name a few. Visiting those places inspired me a lot and also gave me a taste of the road. I gained direction with my music career following that trip which has ultimately led me to where I am today, preparing to release my debut album and looking forward to touring lots in the near future.

What do you miss most nowadays from the music of the past? What are your hopes and fears for the future?

I think there is a lot of good music that is being made nowadays, that being said, what is popular is definitely lacking soul so to speak and that is what I miss most. My hope is that we will elevate real people, playing real instruments, making music with real substance. I am afraid of the potential of AI generated music and where things are going with technology, however I do think there is no replacement for the real thing and people will be able to recognize that.

What are some of the most important lessons you have learned from your experience in the music path?                             (Marcus Trummer / Photo by Heather Saitz)

I’ve really learned the importance of being yourself and not trying to fit in with others. With music you can get caught up in trying to emulate other artists, but it’s so important to find your own style and authentic voice. I used to not be comfortable with being myself and thought I needed to put on an act if I wanted to be successful. Overtime I have learned that just being honest and true to who you are is a much better way of going about things. People relate to authenticity and respect you more when they can tell you are being genuine. Additionally, no one can compete against you when you are being yourself, because no one is better at being you than you.

"Blues and rock are timeless sounding genres that people of all ages can relate to and enjoy."

What's the balance in music between technique and soul/emotions? What is the role of music in today’s society?

I think it’s good to learn the fundamentals of music theory, but only enough to be proficient in working with other musicians and communicating ideas. Front that point on, it’s all about the feel and emotion you play with. I firmly believe that you can’t intellectualize when trying to create good art, you have to feel it. I think that's what music is all about. It’s a form of expression that helps us to understand this human experience we are all having. Music brings people closer together in society by highlighting our shared experiences. It is a driver of connection and community, vital to the health of us all.

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