Put simply, Mark J is a man on a truly global mission to spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ. The Queens- bred emcee that resides in Atlanta is a balanced minister that is defined by much more than the quality music he puts out. Here’s a look into the life of an artist who comes with concept after concept to speak “soulutions” not only to a city of pain, but also an everyday world.
Kellus Hill: Let me start this interview off by thanking you for your time on behalf of DaSouth.com! Tell the people, who is Mark J off the mic?
Mark J: A Father, a husband, a devoted member of my local church seeking to utilize my gifts to serve the kingdom.
KH: Amen, how long have you been married, how many kids do you have, and what capacity do you serve in the local body?
MJ: It will be 8 years of marriage come next month. I have a 3 year old daughter and a newborn coming in October. We find out the sex of the baby in two weeks (praying for a boy!). I'm a decision counselor at my church under the discipleship ministry. I also co-lead the connections ministry which focuses on spiritual maturity for new believers.
KH: Wow, that's big... to carry the ministry commitments you do and be a family man as well, praise God! I have heard you preach on a couple of your albums so I'm not too surprised about the passion you have. What from your ministry responsibilities inspired you as you worked on "An Everyday World"?
MJ: Well, I am really big on apologetics (the study of defending the faith) because the times we live in call for us to take a stance on our beliefs. The more I studied on different religions and cultures the more passionate I became on global issues. I was also traveling out of the country a lot for shows which all played a part on the theme for this album.
Mark J's "An Everyday World" EPK
KH: There is no question a firm stance is necessary, cosign from me. What are some of the specific global issues that you are passionate about?
MJ: Definitely the Darfur crisis. I'm currently working with the Darfur Coalition to help raise awareness and support to help in the aftermath issues over there in Sudan. I'm also trying to go on a mission trip to Jamaica later on this year. My family is original from there so that region of the West Indies is dear to my heart.
KH: To strive to impact the local as well as the international is definitely Great Commision work. Man, that's a lot going on for the kingdom right there. Going back to the album, how did the creative process (production, song choices, etc.) take shape and what has the response been like?
MJ: The creative process was a slow one. I took my time on this album. I didn't touch a pen and pad until God sparked something in my heart to write. I'm not one of them dudes who has a book of rhymes laying around. My experiences in life usually prompt me to write so it's few and far between when I pick up the pen and pad. I mostly wrote on plane rides home from shows. As far as the response goes, its been off the chain! It's humbling to hear how people talk about the album. More so than people saying it's hot or bangin' that gets me but the fact that they say, "Yo, Mark that joint really touched my soul" or "I feel lead to change this in my life because of that song". That's what I love to hear and I've been receiving responses like that recently which is dope.
Mark J talks about his song "Darfur Dreams"
KH: I never thought about guys not having a book full of rhymes...that makes sense though. That's real; I think the responses that you speak of are the most crucial. What music are you listening to these days?
MJ: Well, since I heard about the news of Michael Jackson...I'm not going to front. I've been bumpin' his stuff just to remember the genius in that dude. Other than him: Casting Crowns, Jahaziel, John Mayer & Ayeisha Woods.
KH: True, nothing like reminiscing some; I also like the other artists you mentioned, switching it up from HHH a little. Are there any specific plans to hit us with any different/ hidden style of an album in the future (singing, reggae)? (laugh)
MJ: (Laughs)....you never know fam. I'm crazy enough to put out a whole rock album. I just try to be true to myself and really be sensitive to the Holy Spirit. I try to be as honest in my lyricism and creativity but always within the parameters of the scriptures.
Mark J talks about his song "Apathy"
KH: Well we will not have a problem keeping an eye out and also maybe asking the Holy Spirit to nudge you to that guitar...lol! What are some of the most profound things the Holy Spirit has been showing you recently?
MJ: I've been reading a book called "UnChristian" by Gabe Lyons (of the www.fermiproject.com). It's really open my eyes to what the younger generations think about Christianity right now. The tolerance for Christians is slowly dwindling away with our youth and we need to engage the culture very strategically. I highly recommend this book to anyone at the frontlines of the faith.
KH: Appreciate the referral, definitely sounds like a good read, some of us will need to consider holding off purchasing a CD or two and buying that book. Is there any specific thing you'd like the readers to stand with you in prayer on?
MJ: Yes, we are launching Merge Ministries this year which is a ministry geared towards evangelistic training seminars and sanctification tools to really apply the theme of merging how you live with what you believe. So I'm asking cats to pray that God would bring the resources and increase our wisdom in guiding this vision. Also, on a personal tip please pray for the safe delivery of my newborn this fall.
KH: No question, I know plenty will intercede with you bro. Now here's the open floor, is there anything you would like to relay to the readers from your heart of hearts?
MJ: Cop the album!!! "An Everyday World" from iTunes, The Bus Shop, Quality Junk, or Amazon and support the ministry!!! I need diapers right now. (laughs)! Hit me up on www.twitter.com/markjcc
Mark J Interview with Rapzilla.com
KH: (Laughs), for certain, I cosign on the need for diapers! Please take advantage of this top level music folks!
MJ: Oh yeah, congrats on the newborn to you fam!!!
KH: Appreciate you bro! I look forward to sending you some of my son's outgrown clothes for the son you're praying for! (laugh) So let me wrap this up with a final question, where do you see yourself in ten years?
MJ: Still running marathons and leading boot camps while grindin' in the local church. Also, teaching history in a secular university. My ultimate goal is to be a Professor in Biblical history. Prayerfully, I'll be finish with my PhD by then.
KH: Wow, man, more school! (laugh) I just think of a Ph D and wish I could maintain that type of focus, much respect! Let me just say that Dasouth appreciates your time and your heart for ministry. Keep grinding in this everyday world for Christ's glory!
Yo Mark I really appreciate your stand in the Gospel. The Everyday World Album has touched my life. We will be praying for your ministry and your fam. Amen
Features 
Kellus Hill: Let me start this interview off by thanking you for your time on behalf of DaSouth.com! Tell the people, who is Mark J off the mic?
