My first experience with Marc Broussard was through the
television program
Breakfast with the Arts. I immediately followed up with a
trip to the local music store where I anxiously purchased the album
Carencro. Once home, I played and replayed “Home”, the first
track, desperately trying to completely absorb the music. It is a
raw, soulful tune, and Marc’s self-assured character is at its
strongest on this song. He knows he delivers quality entertainment,
and that confidence is evident. “Home” states: “I felt the crowd
breathe in and I closed my eyes, and we disappeared into the
groove.” And he’s right, you can’t help but get lost in this
music.
Marc grew up in a small town in Louisiana, spending hours
encircled with music. In the interview I heard he shared that his
background includes a great diversity of influences. He played the
blues with his father
(Ed: Ted Broussard, former guitarist with the Boogie Kings)
and performed Gregorian chants in church. He has obviously learned
the benefits of voice control and breath moderation. Continually
striving to expound on his abilities, he seems to be unaware of any
limitations, and this allows him to tackle music that others might
view as difficult or unrelated to their talent.
Carencro, although not specifically designated as such, is a
collection of love song; love of family, love of home, love of
music. The track, “The Beauty of Who You Are” is sensual and
bluesy, and speaks of the support received from a special someone;
that person that makes you believe in yourself. It’s vocally strong
and yet allows for the warmth of his intentions to flow
through.
This album is so solid that it’s difficult to pick just a few
favorites, but to add to the previously mentioned two, I will add
“Where You Are”. This is poetry set to music. It has a lighter,
airy quality but still has the ability to describe love and the
need to be with the ones you cherish.
You won’t find many like this gentleman. The realistic nature of
a small hometown community has definitely played a huge role in the
songs he chooses to perform. This is what makes his music sexy and
provocative. He’s not afraid of stretching himself, challenging new
sounds, and revealing himself through his lyrics. Marc generally
chooses to play nightclubs. He has a desire to touch each listener
and perhaps the more up-close-and-personal venues appeal to his
already friendly nature. He’s a wholesome man and he knows he’s a
talented artist, however, he seems unaffected by the fans flocking
to see him play. He still trusts and depends on the truth of his
music, rather than on the hype. Perhaps this is the crux of his
ability to draw you into the music.
Marc Broussard’s ability to croon (as my grandpa used to call
it) is not solely based on his rich, deep voice but also on the
fact that he is genuinely multi-talented. You catch yourself
singing along to
Carencro, stumbling over the verses, yet completely
satisfied and happy simply because he makes you feel as if you’re
part of the whole process.
