Since month it is not possible to give concerts. The livestreams are the new indoor concerts. It was completely unexpected. And when can concerts take place normally again? Nobody knows that yet. What it looks like for artists who can't even get to know their audience this year, but can only communicate via social media, is the experience of Cory Marks, the new country star. Why am I writing about country music now? Because he is reviving country music and the genre is gaining new attention. Cory Marks mixes country with rock and a bit with metal. A combination of the finest that is currently spread all over the world. Because he already has his supporting fans all over the world, they are very excited about his upcoming album "Who I Am"! He receives a lot of attention although he can’t get on the road to see his faceless fans so far.
Sarah-Jane: Do you think theres is a difference in the perception of country music between Germany and the United States or Canada? If yes or no, would you explain why?
Cory Marks: I'm not sure what it's like over there in Germany but I would sure like to let them know who I am and the country music I represent.
Sarah-Jane: Did your life change a lot due to your success? Did the effect change you in any way?
Cory Marks: COVID changed a lot of things. If it wasn't for that I think I could answer this question differently, I'm really not sure yet until I can see how many tickets I can sell where ever I play. Hopefully I can say yes, it really has. On another side it's got people to hear my music from around the world and im very thankful for that!
Sarah-Jane: What is your next goal in your live and in your music?
Cory Marks: I've gotten a TOP 10 at US rock radio, I'd like to see my first #1 and sell tickets. I can't wait to get back on the road and perform.
Sarah-Jane: How was the partnership with Ivan, Travis, Mick and Lzzy?
Cory Marks: It's incredible to have such amazing artist's that appreciate my music enough to want to be part of it right from the first record. I'm very thankful for that!
Sarah-Jane: Could you imagine some other features with different artists? Why? And who would that be?
Cory Marks: I could definitely see myself working with other artists. I'm a fan of a lot of different music and genres and I myself like to be different and out of the box. If I could name a few I would love to work with Ozzy Osbourne, Kid Rock, Shania Twain, Post Malone, Eric Church or Luke Combs. All for their own reasons and I just think we could create something great.
Sarah-Jane: Would you like to try a different genre? And if yes, which one?
Cory Marks: I like where I'm at and where I'm going. Mixing Country music, Rock and a little bit of metal is right where I want to be cause no one else is doing it.
Sarah-Jane: Do you writte the lyrics first and then create riffs or the other way around? Is there a recipe for writing a song?
Cory Marks: I don't really have one, it just kinda hits where and when it does. Sometimes I start with a title, lyrics sometimes I start with a melody or music. It all depends!
Sarah-Jane: Are your lyrics based on true experiences or are they fictional?
Cory Marks: A lot of them are true experiences either something I went through or experienced. That's why I'm so passionate about the songs and perform them with the emotions that I do.
Sarah-Jane: Do the songs "Who I Am" and "Keep Doing What I Do" describe yourself?
Cory Marks: Pretty much. Definitely both experiences or parts of my life that I went through.
Sarah-Jane: Why is Canada fascinating country for you?
Cory Marks: I think the world is fascinating and I hope this music takes me around it a couple of times.
Sarah-Jane: Do you prefer to perform in front of a large audience or in a smaller club and why?
Cory Marks: Each have their own feel and vibe. The bigger the crowd and louder, the better. The more energy the crowd gives me the more I want to give back.
Sarah-Jane: Would you like to address something personal to your fans?
Cory Marks: To all those that love this music and sound, thank you for all your support. Keep sharing and playing it loud and to everyone out there. Be kind, be safe and I hope to see y'all soon!
